How does Parkinson's progress?

Despite significant medical advances in recent years, there’s not yet any therapy option that can stop the progression of the disease completely. However, effective treatment can help manage complications and extend the amount of time that you can live independently.

The first movement-related signs of Parkinson's disease can include difficulty in carrying out everyday activities such as dressing, buttoning, lacing, brushing, or shaving. These symptoms are often initially limited to one half of the body. Some patients may lose movement in a leg or a foot early on.

Over time, the movement disorders increase and can occur on both sides of the body. Your steps can become smaller and gait and balance may be affected. You may struggle with places where the space you are walking in narrows, such as going through doors. Muscle stiffness can lead to a slightly bent posture. Other typical symptoms include problems with swallowing (dysphagia), a quieter, more monotonous way of speaking, and effects on facial expressions.

Due to the progressive nature of the disease, medications adapted to your personal situation should be carefully managed and adjusted as needed. That’s why it is so important to keep track of any changes in your symptoms and share these with your doctor.