what are the four cardinal signs of parkinson’s disease
The four main symptoms traditionally associated with Parkinson’s disease also known as primary motor symptoms are:
- Tremor: Resting tremor is one of the most recognizable symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. It usually begins in one arm and manifests as a rhythmic tremor or tremor, especially when the limb is at rest. The tremor often subsides during voluntary activity and sleep.
- Bradykinesia: This refers to the slowness of movement and a general decrease in spontaneous and voluntary movements. People with Parkinson’s disease may experience difficulty walking, slowness of movement, and heaviness or stiffness in their limbs. Simple tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or brushing teeth can be challenging.
- Rigidity: Parkinson’s disease can cause muscle stiffness and resistance to passive movement. This stiffness can affect different muscle groups and cause a feeling of muscle soreness or soreness. Rigidity is often described as a “cogwheel” or “lead pipe” sensation when the limb is moved by an examiner.
- Postural instability: As Parkinson’s disease progresses individuals may have difficulty maintaining balance and posture. They may develop a tendency to stoop or lean forward and their reflexes may deteriorate to maintain stability when pushing or pulling. Postural instability increases the risk of falling.
early signs of parkinsons in females
- Changes in posture and balance: Some women may experience a stooped posture or postural instability which increases their risk of falling.
- Micrographia: Handwriting can become smaller and more tight over time a condition called micrographia.
- Reduced arm swing: Reduced swing of one or both arms while walking may be seen even in the early stages of the disease.
- Changes in facial expressions: Women with Parkinson’s disease may have decreased facial expressions such as a fixed or mask-like facial expression.
- Soft or low-pitched speech: Speech may become softer or more monotone (hypophonia) due to changes in vocal cord control.
- Loss of smell: An early symptom of Parkinson’s disease in some women may be a reduced ability to detect or recognize smells (hyposmia or anosmia).
- Mood and sleep changes: Some women may experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, difficulty sleeping or rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (dreaming).