Parkinson’s disease, otherwise known as Parkinsonism, is marked by some distinct symptoms. These include symptoms like:
- Uncontrollable tremors
- Difficulty with balance
- Stiff limbs
- Slowed movements
- And more
Parkinson’s disease is a disorder that becomes more severe over time, usually. Many doctors rely on the Hoehn and Yahr rating scale when it comes to classifying the severity of symptoms. In today’s guide, we will be reviewing the five stages of Parkinson’s according to that scale.
If you are suffering from Parkinson’s, no matter if you were just diagnosed or are in Stage 5, contact the Texas Institute for Neurological Disorders in the Dallas-Fort Worth region today to get help from a movement disorder specialist along with the rest of our neurologists to create a highly personalized treatment for managing your specific symptoms. There is no cure for Parkinson’s yet, but there are ways to significantly reduce negative symptoms. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
The 5 Stages of Parkinson’s
Stage 1
Stage 1 Parkinson’s is the mildest form out there. It may involve some symptoms, but they are generally mild enough that they don’t interfere with normal, everyday tasks or one’s lifestyle. At this stage, it’s common for symptoms to not even be recognized as Parkinson’s. Perhaps there are just some changes in your walk or posture, or maybe you’re experiencing unexplained regular constipation. At this stage, symptoms like tremors are usually exclusive to just one side of your body. Medications can be effective at minimizing symptoms like tremors and constipation.
Stage 2
By stage 2, Parkinson’s is becoming more noticeable. Facial expression changes are likely occurring as well as more stiffness and tremors than in stage 1. There may be posture changes at this time, along with an increased difficulty walking. By stage 2, one may begin to have Parkinson’s symptoms on both sides of one’s body now. It can take months or it can take years to reach stage 2 Parkinson’s.
Stage 3
Stage 3 is a major turning point in the progression of Parkinson’s disease. On top of all the symptoms experienced in stage 2, now there one’s reflexes have decreased, movement has become in general slower, and one’s ability to balance has decreased. Because of the latter in particular, it is not uncommon for falls to occur at this stage. Medication and occupational therapy may still be helpful for decreasing symptoms at this stage.
Stage 4
By stage 4, one is no longer able to stand up without assistance. It is extremely dangerous taking on daily tasks by oneself, so by this time, if not sooner, someone with Parkinson’s needs to have help doing daily tasks.
Stage 5
This is the most severe stage of Parkinson’s, entailing advanced leg stiffness and the inability to walk or stand whatsoever. Wheelchairs are a necessity by stage 5. Assistance is required to prevent falls during one’s daily life. About 30% of people in stage 4 and 5 experience hallucinations, delusions, or confusion. Dementia is also a common symptom, affecting nearly 75% of people with Parkinson’s. By this stage, the side effects of the medications being taken may outweigh their benefits.
Get Treatment for Your Parkinson’s Today
Whatever stage your Parkinson’s is in, our neurology staff, led by Dr. Sundaram, is prepared to give you our full support. We offer highly-personalized care, and will work with your other healthcare providers to deliver you the best solutions we can for managing your Parkinson’s. If you are in North Texas or South Oklahoma, contact our providers at Texas Institute for Neurological Disorders to get the custom care you need. Schedule your appointment today.