What are the stages of Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that mainly affects movement. The disease progresses through different stages, each with its own set of symptoms.

Early Parkinson's disease

In the early stages of Parkinson's disease, symptoms may be mild and may not interfere significantly with daily activities. Common symptoms at this stage include tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement (bradykinesia), and issues with balance and coordination.

Mid-stage Parkinson's disease

As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced. Patients may experience more difficulty with movement and may start experiencing freezing episodes, where they suddenly stop moving. Balance issues become more noticeable, and daily activities become more challenging.

Advanced Parkinson's disease

In the advanced stages of Parkinson's disease, symptoms become more severe and debilitating. Patients may experience severe motor fluctuations, dyskinesia (involuntary movements), hallucinations, and cognitive changes. Daily activities may become almost impossible to perform without assistance.

Understanding the different stages of Parkinson's disease is essential for treatment planning and management. Early diagnosis and intervention can help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life for patients.