🌟 6 Signs Your Parkinson’s Disease Is Progressing

People move through the stages of Parkinson’s at different paces. Recognizing the signs of progression helps you and your care team adjust treatment plans effectively.

1. 💊 Medication Not Working Like It Used To

• Early Stages: Medication effectively controls symptoms.
• Progression: Medication works for shorter periods, requiring more frequent doses. Pay attention to how long your medicine takes to work and when it stops being effective.

2. 😟 Increased Feelings of Anxiety or Depression

• Parkinson's impacts mental health, leading to heightened anxiety or depression.
• Notice signs like increased anxiety, loss of interest in activities, or a sense of hopelessness.

3. 😴 Changes in Sleeping Patterns

• Common in Later Stages: Frequent nighttime awakenings or increased daytime sleepiness.
• REM Sleep Behavior Disorder: Acting out dreams, which might be noticed by a bed partner if you haven't experienced this before.

4. 🌀 Involuntary Movements (Dyskinesia)

• Cause: Long-term use of levodopa, resulting in uncontrolled arm or leg movements.
• Solution: Adjust medication dosage and timing to manage these movements.

5. 🍽️ Trouble Swallowing

• Can occur at any stage, indicated by coughing during or after eating, feeling food is stuck, or increased drooling.
• Serious Complications: Swallowing difficulties can lead to infections. Report any changes to your doctor immediately.

6. 🧠 Memory or Thinking Problems

• Cognitive Decline: Forgetfulness, confusion, or hallucinations may signal progression.
• Advanced Stages: These issues can be side effects of medications or signs of advanced stages.

🚀 The Takeaway

Treatment options are available for all stages of Parkinson's. By closely monitoring these symptoms and communicating with your healthcare provider, you can adjust treatment plans to manage the progression effectively and continue to live a healthy, fulfilling life.