Parkinsonism: A set of movement symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other disorders. It is important to understand that parkinsonism describes symptoms rather than a specific disorder.
Symptoms include:
- slow movements
- Rigidity
- Problems walking and balance.
- Shaking
Parkinsonism is the name for a group of movement symptoms found in several conditions, including Parkinson’s disease. These symptoms include slow movements, stiffness, tremors, and problems walking and maintaining balance. Parkinsonism disorders can also involve non-movement symptoms, such as changes in mood and thinking, problems sleeping, and problems with the body’s automatic functions, such as blood pressure.
Types of parkinsonism
Parkinson’s disease
- A progressive brain disorder with movement and non-movement symptoms.
- Symptoms slowly worsen over time.
- Movement symptoms tend to improve with levodopa.
atypical parkinsonism
- A group of progressive brain disorders with some of the symptoms seen in PD
- Symptoms are usually more severe from the beginning and progress more quickly.
- Movement symptoms improve less or not at all with levodopa
Secondary Parkinsonism
- Conditions that mimic PD but are not always progressive
- Symptoms may improve by treating the underlying cause.
- Movement symptoms generally do not improve with levodopa.
Atypical parkinsonism disorders
Atypical parkinsonism disorders have specific features that can help differentiate them from each other.
Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB)
- Progressive short-term memory loss and confusion.
- Difficulty concentrating or staying alert.
- Seeing things that don’t exist, such as dark figures in side vision.
Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
- Lightheadedness when standing up or sudden changes in blood pressure
- Difficulty controlling the bladder.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
- Slow or limited eye movements, both up and down.
- Severe balance problems and frequent falls from the beginning
- Early changes in thinking and behavior.
- slurred or hoarse speech
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
- Muscle tension and jerky movements.
- Abnormal hand and foot postures (called dystonia)
- Problems with coordination
Diagnosis of parkinsonism
There is no single test to diagnose parkinsonism disorders. Your neurologist will review your medical history, symptoms and medications, perform a neurological exam, and may order brain scans (such as an MRI or DaTscan) or a skin biopsy. How your symptoms respond to levodopa may also provide useful clues.
Because these disorders share similar symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to get the correct diagnosis. It is important to work with a neurologist with experience in parkinsonism. Certain neurologists, known as movement disorder specialists, have additional training in this area. If you need help finding a specialist, please contact our helpline.
Treatment of atypical parkinsonism
Levodopa may not be effective for all types of atypical parkinsonism, but other medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms. Physical and occupational therapy, regular exercise, and speech therapy are key to staying as active and independent as possible.
Find a neurologist who can help you form a care team tailored to your needs, including rehabilitation specialists and, if necessary, a social worker, psychiatrist, sleep doctor, urologist, or other health professionals.
Secondary Parkinsonism
Some types of parkinsonism may improve if the underlying cause is treated. For example, drug-induced parkinsonism, a type of secondary parkinsonism, often improves after stopping the medication. Medications commonly linked to this include antipsychotics, anti-nausea medications, and some blood pressure medications. Normal pressure hydrocephalus, which causes memory loss and problems walking, can be treated with a tube to drain excess fluid. Treatment of other forms of secondary parkinsonism depends on the specific cause.
Tips for dealing with parkinsonism
- If you are unsure of your diagnosis, ask your doctor for clarification. Please note that a specific diagnosis may take time.
- Stay informed. Understanding your treatment options and available resources can help improve quality of life.
- Connect with others with a similar diagnosis to share experiences, coping strategies and resources.
- Focus on what you can control, such as exercise, nutrition, sleep, and staying involved in activities and relationships that are important to you.
