Debunking Five Common Myths About Parkinson鈥檚 Disease
Parkinson鈥檚 disease is a common neurodegenerative condition, second only to Alzheimer's disease in its prevalence.
According to the Parkinson鈥檚 Foundation, there has been a 50% increase in patients diagnosed with Parkinson鈥檚 disease since 2022, sometimes even being represented in TV shows and movies. Around 90,000 Americans are diagnosed each year, with the number expected to rise as the population ages.
As more people become familiar with the disease, there remain many misconceptions about Parkinson鈥檚, a disorder that primarily affects the dopamine-producing neurons that play an essential role in controlling movement and coordination.
Here are five common myths about Parkinson鈥檚 disease:
1. Parkinson鈥檚 disease only affects older adults
Although it most often develops in individuals older than 50, Parkinson鈥檚 can also affect younger adults. Young-onset Parkinson鈥檚 disease typically occurs in adults between the ages of 21 and 50, with a higher chance of it being linked to family history. Although young-onset Parkinson鈥檚 disease affects around 4% of total Parkinson鈥檚 cases each year and progresses more slowly, it can increase the risk of anxiety and depression, requiring more mental health support.
2. Parkinson鈥檚 disease is always genetic
Genetics can contribute, particularly when it affects younger adults. However, most cases of Parkinson鈥檚 disease are nonhereditary; only around 15% of patients report a positive family history. Exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides or having a traumatic brain injury can also contribute to the development of Parkinson鈥檚.
3. Everyone with Parkinson鈥檚 disease has a tremor
Tremors, characterized by involuntary shaking of the hands or legs, affect approximately 80% of patients. While they are common and sometimes an early indication of the disease, not everyone has them. Some patients鈥� primary symptoms are muscle stiffness and difficulty with walking and balance.
4. Parkinson鈥檚 disease only affects movement
Parkinson鈥檚 disease is mainly known for affecting patients鈥� movement, but there are other nonmotor symptoms. These include:
- Anxiety, mood disturbances, hallucinations and sleep disturbances
- Difficulty with multitasking, attention and memory
- Dizziness, constipation and bladder issues
- Fatigue
- Sensory changes
These symptoms can be just as challenging and often require targeted treatment.
5. Parkinson鈥檚 disease is fatal
Parkinson鈥檚 disease is not fatal. However, it is a progressive condition that can lead to life-threatening complications, such as:
- Dementia and delirium
- Difficulty swallowing and aspiration pneumonia
- Falls and fractures
While there is no known cure for Parkinson鈥檚 disease, there are treatments that can significantly improve quality of life. Medication can help with slowness, stiffness and other movement symptoms. Deep brain stimulation, or DBS, surgery can benefit some patients who either do not respond well to medications or develop new movement control issues over time. Regular physical activity can help improve mobility, balance, strength and flexibility.