The Parkinson’s Symptoms You May Not Have Expected
You may be surprised to learn about some of the non-movement Parkinson’s symptoms a loved one might experience.
When most people think about Parkinson’s disease, tremors or difficulty moving likely come to mind first. However, if you are caring for a family member with Parkinson’s, you’ve probably noticed they’re dealing with so much more than just movement issues. Non-movement Parkinson’s symptoms, like cognitive changes, depression, and sleep problems, can have just as much of an effect on daily life, but often go unnoticed or untreated. Understanding these symptoms is crucial to providing the most effective care for someone you love with Parkinson’s disease.
Autonomic Nervous System Symptoms: Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect the brain—it also has an impact on the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic functions like blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. You may notice the older adult experiencing constipation, urinary problems, excessive sweating, or a sudden drop in blood pressure when they stand up, known as orthostatic hypotension. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but there are ways to handle them. For instance, dietary changes can help with constipation, and compression stockings or increased intake of water can help alleviate low blood pressure. Consulting with a healthcare provider is key to finding the right treatments.
Sleep Issues: Sleep disturbances are another common non-movement symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Sleep issues can include insomnia, frequent waking throughout the night, or vivid dreams and nightmares. Restless legs syndrome and REM sleep behavior disorder, where individuals physically act out their dreams, are also more common in individuals with Parkinson’s. Sleep disorders can make daily life even harder, causing increased fatigue, irritability, and a lower quality of life. Establishing a bedtime routine, limiting caffeine intake, and ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment can help, but sometimes medical intervention may be needed.
Sensory and Pain Issues: Some individuals with Parkinson’s also experience pain, which can be brought on by muscle stiffness or cramping. Sensory changes, like a diminished sense of smell or vision problems, are also common. These symptoms can add to the physical discomfort and emotional stress that are often part of Parkinson’s. Addressing pain and sensory issues requires a holistic approach that may include adjustments to daily routines, physical therapy, or medications to ensure the person remains comfortable.
Mental Health and Cognitive Changes: Parkinson’s disease can affect the brain in ways that go far beyond movement, often causing mental health and cognitive issues. The person diagnosed may experience anxiety, apathy, or depression, which can make it difficult for them to find joy in daily activities or even get motivated to move around. Depression is especially common in Parkinson’s and may be triggered by both the illness itself and the emotional toll of dealing with a chronic condition. Cognitive changes, such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating, may also develop as the disease advances. This can be frustrating for both you and the person you love, especially when you notice them struggling with tasks that used to come easily. It is important to recognize these symptoms early and work with healthcare providers to manage them, as treatments such as therapy or medications can help.
In-Home Care Can Help
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s is much easier with a skilled and compassionate partner by your side. At Responsive Home Care, we equip our caregiving team with the training needed to provide the exceptional level of care elderly individuals deserve. Let us support you and an older loved one in Deerfield Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, or the surrounding areas in Broward County. Give us a call at 954-486-6440 for more information.
