Millions of people experience tremors or mild shaking. However, this
condition does not necessarily mean that a person is developing Parkinson's
Disease. In most cases, individuals who live with tremors suffer from a
condition known as essential tremor. This illness is characterized by brief
involuntary movement, trembling hands/legs/voice, and nodding head. Contrary to
Parkinson's Disease, tremors are the only symptom of essential tremor.
Commonly, tremors due to essential tremors are caused by stress. They lessen
when a patient is calm or resting.
Unfortunately, those who suffer from Parkinson's Disease endure more
symptoms than those who suffer from essential tremors. The obvious symptom of
Parkinson's is shaking; however there are addition tell-tale signs that may
assist with identifying Parkinson's Disease.
Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
1. Muscle stiffness, shaking, loss of balance.
2. Difficulty swallowing
3. Abnormal facial expressions
4. Change in speaking voice
5. Difficulty writing, brushing teeth, combing hair, and performing other
tasks that require fine motor skills.
6. Dragging one or both feet
Diagnosing Parkinson's Disease
It is estimated that nearly 40% of Parkinson' victims are unaware that they
are living with this illness. Diagnosing Parkinson's is difficult.
Unfortunately, there are no blood tests or imaging procedures to confirm the
illness. However, after a thorough examination to check for illnesses with
similar symptoms, physicians will likely come to a Parkinson's conclusion after
examining inconclusive tests results, along with observing patient symptom's
that are common to Parkinson's.