Parkinson’s Disease Patient Education

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with movement. It happens because certain cells in the brain that control movement slowly stop working. This leads to shaking, stiffness, and trouble with balance and walking.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause is unknown.
It usually happens in older adults, especially after age 60.
Family history can increase risk.
Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals may raise the risk.
Some genes may increase the chance of developing it.

Signs and Symptoms

Tremors or shaking, often starting in one hand
Muscle stiffness or tightness
Slow movements (bradykinesia)
Trouble with balance and walking
Soft or slurred speech
Small handwriting
Changes in facial expressions (less smiling)

Early Warning Signs

Slight shaking or tremor in one hand
Feeling stiff or slow in movements
Problems with handwriting or small print
Trouble with balance or walking
Changes in voice or facial expressions

Complications if Untreated or Not Following Treatment

Falls and injuries from poor balance
Difficulty swallowing and choking
Problems with speaking clearly
Muscle stiffness causing pain
Depression or anxiety
Difficulty with daily activities

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

Medicines to help control symptoms and improve movement
Physical therapy and exercise to keep muscles strong and improve balance
Speech therapy for voice and swallowing problems
Healthy diet to maintain good nutrition
Support from family and healthcare providers
Regular check-ups with your doctor

Common Medications

Levodopa: Helps replace dopamine, which is low in Parkinson’s
Dopamine agonists: Help stimulate dopamine effects
MAO-B inhibitors: Help prevent dopamine breakdown
COMT inhibitors: Help prolong the effect of Levodopa

Side Effects: Medicines can cause nausea, dizziness, or involuntary movements. Tell your doctor if you have side effects.

Dietary Needs

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber to avoid constipation.
Drink enough water daily.
Some medicines work best if taken with or without food; follow your doctor’s advice.

Lifestyle Changes

Stay active with daily exercise to improve strength and balance.
Avoid falls by making your home safe (remove rugs, use grab bars).
Get enough rest and manage stress.
Keep a regular schedule for medicines.

Safety Considerations

Use assistive devices like canes or walkers if needed.
Avoid walking in slippery or uneven areas.
Get help if you feel dizzy or weak.
Have someone nearby when exercising if possible.

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Exercise regularly to keep muscles flexible and strong.
Follow your doctor’s advice on medicines and therapy.
Monitor symptoms and report changes early.
Stay socially active and engaged.

When to Call for Help

Call your Home Health Agency or Doctor if:

You notice new or worsening tremors or stiffness
You have difficulty swallowing or speaking
You feel dizzy or have fallen recently
You experience side effects from medicines
You have trouble with daily activities or mood changes
You need help managing medicines or exercises

Go to the Emergency Room if:

You have sudden severe weakness or inability to move a limb
You have trouble breathing or chest pain
You fall and hurt yourself badly
You have severe confusion or sudden change in mental state
You have uncontrolled movements or severe medication reactions

Patient Homework / Assessment

Instructions: Read each statement. Circle True if correct or False if incorrect. If False, please write the correct answer.

True or False: Parkinson’s disease affects movement because brain cells stop working.
True or False: Tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
True or False: Parkinson’s disease only affects people under 40 years old.
True or False: Muscle stiffness is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
True or False: Parkinson’s disease can cause slow movements.
True or False: Exercise is not helpful for people with Parkinson’s.
True or False: Levodopa is a medicine used to help Parkinson’s symptoms.
True or False: You should stop taking medicines as soon as you feel better.
True or False: Speech therapy can help with swallowing and talking.
True or False: Parkinson’s disease can cause problems with balance.
True or False: A healthy diet and drinking water are important.
True or False: Parkinson’s disease symptoms never change or get worse.
True or False: It is safe to use walkers or canes if you have balance problems.
True or False: Depression and mood changes can happen with Parkinson’s.
True or False: You should avoid reporting new symptoms to your doctor.
True or False: Falls are dangerous and should be prevented.
True or False: It is important to take medicines at the same time every day.
True or False: Parkinson’s disease can cause smaller handwriting.
True or False: Getting enough rest is part of managing Parkinson’s disease.
True or False: If you have sudden weakness or chest pain, go to the emergency room immediately.

Individualized Questions About Your Parkinson’s Disease

When did you first notice symptoms?
What medicines are you currently taking?
Have you had any side effects from your medicines?
Are you doing any exercises or physical therapy?
Do you have trouble with daily tasks or walking?
Have you noticed changes in your speech or swallowing?
Do you feel depressed or anxious?
How is your diet and fluid intake?
Have you fallen recently?
When is your next doctor visit scheduled?