The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the brain where the dopamine producing nerve cells are damaged. First discovered by Dr. James Parkinson in 1817, the main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are movement problems. In advanced cases of Parkinson's disease, the patient can develop dementia, another brain disorder that results in cognition problems. The behavioral symptoms of Parkinson's dementia can be a drastic change from the patient's normal behavior.
Lack of Expression
A patient with Parkinson's dementia can have a lack of facial expression. The NIH notes that the lack of expression sometimes gives patients a "mask-like appearance."
Altered Speech
Speech can also be altered in a Parkinson's dementia patient. The NIH states that the patient's speech will come out slower, and the patient will speak in a quieter tone. The patient's voice will also be monotone.
Personality Changes
The NIH notes that the personality changes can be difficult for family members to cope with. The Parkinson's dementia patient may have a flat mood, where events do not cause visible sadness or joy. As the dementia becomes more advanced, the patient may exhibit violent or aggressive behavior. Patients may also lose social skills and draw inward.
Sleep Changes
Sleep can also be affected by Parkinson's dementia. The NIH states that patients may often wake up during the night, which can affect the quality of their sleep.
Judgment Problems
A Parkinson's dementia patient may also suffer from poor judgment. This can result not being able to recognize danger.
Hallucinations and Delusions
Hallucinations and delusions are a behavioral symptom of advanced Parkinson's dementia. During a hallucination, the patient will see something or hear something that is not there. A patient who suffers from delusions will believe in a false reality.
