The distinctive signs of Parkinson’s disease are tremors, slowness of movement, and rigidity. Moreover, difficulties in coordination are common, as well as non-motor symptoms and other complications.
However, there are ways to manage many of these complications. Knowing how to manage them can ensure a better quality of life for a person with Parkinson’s.
Learn more about the complications of Parkinson’s disease and how to manage them.
1. Speaking
Speaking can become difficult over time. When Parkinson’s affects the muscles, a person’s voice may become weaker and harder to understand.
Over time, changes in cognitive abilities can make communication more challenging. This can further complicate social interactions.
A study published in BMJ Open in 2017 highlights the importance of speech therapy in maintaining effective communication for individuals.
It can help improve or maintain a person’s quality of life.
2. Depression and Anxiety
Other neuropsychiatric symptoms include:
- mood disorders
- anxiety
- sleep problems
- psychosis
- changes in behavior and thinking patterns
However, symptoms of depression are treatable, and recovery is possible.
Seeking medical help when symptoms of depression begin to manifest can give the person a better quality of life, improved functionality, and a chance to slow down symptoms.
3. Chewing and Swallowing
Difficulties in chewing and swallowing may occur, especially during the later stages of the disease. These may be due to changes in both the autonomic nervous system function and the throat muscles, known as pharyngeal muscles.
These changes increase the risk of food getting stuck in the throat, leading to choking events, which can be life-threatening. If the person accidentally breathes food particles into the lungs, pneumonia may occur.
The person may also produce too much saliva or may not be able to swallow saliva easily. This leads to drooling, which can be embarrassing for the individual.
Some medications can improve symptoms. Additionally, a speech therapist can sometimes help a person retrain throat muscles so they can swallow more effectively.
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4. Sleep
People with Parkinson’s are more likely to have sleep problems than healthy individuals of the same age.
Some people have difficulty falling asleep, while others fall asleep easily but then wake up and cannot fall back asleep, according to the University of California Parkinson’s Disease Clinic and Research Center.
Other sleep problems include:
- sleep apnea
- daytime sleepiness
- nightmares and vivid dreams
- talking during sleep
- restless legs or leg jerking movements
- difficulty turning over in bed
- waking up to go to the bathroom
Possible reasons include:
- the effect of medications
- physical discomfort
- changes in the internal biological clock
Establishing a good sleep routine can be helpful.
Suggestions include:
- going to bed and getting up at the same time every day
- plenty of natural light during daytime hours
- avoiding caffeine and other stimulants, especially before bedtime
- using the bedroom only for sleeping and doing other activities – such as watching television or using cell phones and other devices – in another room, where possible
- avoiding napping during the day, or napping at the same time every day
5. Sexual Dysfunction
It is common to experience a decrease in libido, or sexual desire, with PD, and it can be difficult to have an orgasm or an erection.
The decrease in sexual interest and physical functioning can occur due to a decrease in dopamine levels, according to the American Parkinson Disease Association.
Consequences of this include:
- reduced physical movement
- reduced circulation, affecting the ability to have an erection
- a lack of climax
Vaginal dryness can also be a problem.
Depression and anxiety can reduce a person’s energy levels and their interest in things they used to enjoy, such as sex. Fatigue can be a factor.
Depression and mood changes can also cause changes in behavior and attitude. A partner may feel that the loved one is not “the same” as before.
It is important to remember that it is the same person, and both partners need to communicate how they feel. A counselor may help people find ways to regain a new balance in the relationship.
In rare cases, medications that increase dopamine levels in people with Parkinson’s disease can increase the person’s sexual desire to an unusual level. This too can become a problem for some people.
Treatments are available for many of the symptoms that can cause problems in sexual activity. Medications can improve a person’s mood. Lubrication, for example, may help with vaginal dryness.
6. Urinary Problems
Some people may experience small leaks while others have difficulty urinating properly. Sometimes this may be due to the medications they are taking.
A doctor can help find a solution. Discreet pads are available at a pharmacy.
7. Constipation
Statistics show that up to two-thirds of people with Parkinson’s suffer from constipation.
Reasons may include:
- muscle weakness
- a possible decrease in fluid intake
- side effects of medications
- the impact of the disease on the autonomic nervous system, which includes the digestive system
In turn, constipation may cause anxiety and further discomfort, which can worsen the Parkinson’s experience by further reducing the person’s quality of life.
Possible solutions to this problem may include:
- Medications, such as laxatives
- Dietary interventions, including probiotics and prebiotics
- Increasing fiber and fluid intake
- Some physical therapy
People should talk to their doctor before taking any constipation medications, as some medications and alternative remedies may interfere with other medications.
8. Dementia
Mutations in brain proteins, such as Lewy bodies, can lead to dementia in Parkinson’s.
The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that between 50 and 80% of people with Parkinson’s eventually develop dementia. On average, this takes about 10 years from the onset of symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- difficulty remembering things, concentrating, and making judgments
- unclear speech
- hallucinations and delusions
- depression, irritability, and anxiety
- sleep difficulties and daytime sleepiness
Medications can help slow the progression of dementia, but symptoms usually worsen over time.
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9. Pain
Pain is a common symptom of Parkinson’s. Figures suggest that over 60% of people with the condition experience pain. In the list of bothersome symptoms, pain ranks third after tremor and rigidity.
People report that between 40 and 90 percent of Parkinson’s pain is musculoskeletal, and typically describe the sensation as burning, cramping, or aching.
Suggested ways to reduce pain include:
- Over-the-counter or prescription medications
- Massage, music therapy, tai chi, and other complementary therapies
- Spinal cord stimulation
Individuals should ask their doctor for suggestions on ways to reduce pain that are proven to be safe and effective.
10. Blood Pressure
The autonomic nervous system controls blood flow and blood pressure. This is part of the nervous system that people cannot control, unlike a hand or foot.
Parkinson’s affects this system, leading to changes in blood pressure throughout the day.
One problem is orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure that causes a person to feel dizzy or faint when they stand up. It can also lead to falls and fainting.
Low blood pressure is more common with Parkinson’s, but some people also have very high blood pressure at times. These fluctuations can lead to heart problems.
A doctor may be able to prescribe medication to stabilize blood pressure and prevent dramatic changes. Compression stockings may also be helpful.
11. Sense of Smell
Over 95% of people with Parkinson’s partially lose their sense of smell, due to the impact of Parkinson’s on the nervous system.
It is an early sign of the disease and can occur years before other symptoms appear. Doctors see it as a possible predictor of the disease.
Loss of smell is one of the top five most common symptoms of the disease.
Conclusions
Parkinson’s disease can lead to a wide range of symptoms and related complications.
In addition to these, a person may also experience side effects from the medications they use. It is important to stay in touch with a doctor to discuss any symptoms, complications, and changes as they arise.
