It can be hard to tell if you or a loved one has Parkinson’s disease. Learn the 10 Early Signs that may lead to a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

For some, a Parkinson’s diagnosis comes as a relief; an answer to unexplained symptoms. Others may be stunned, struggling with what the future may look like. As you begin processing your emotions, it’s important to know you are not alone. Learn what people who are newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s need to know

Parkinson’s disease is mistakenly thought of as a disease that only involves movement. However, in addition to motor symptoms such as tremor, stiffness and balance issues, most people develop non-motor symptoms as well. These can include anxiety, depression, sleep issues and more.

Exercise is an important part of healthy living for everyone. For people with Parkinson’s, exercise is more than healthy — it is a vital component to maintaining balance, mobility and activities of daily living. Exercise and physical activity can improve many PD symptoms.

Check out our PD Conversations. Here you can build a network of support and connect with others living with Parkinson’s disease in our online community.

The Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline can provide names of Parkinson’s movement disorder specialists and other Parkinson’s specialists — like physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and more — in your area. Helpline specialists can also provide you with nearby and virtual exercise classes and support groups.

At the Parkinson’s Foundation, it is our mission to help people with Parkinson’s disease live better lives, and that includes staying safe while in the hospital.

Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, meaning that it changes over time. That can make it hard to define your role, as your involvement will also change along the way. Responsibilities may include being there for a loved one, helping with daily activities, managing medications and making financial decisions.

Most people with Parkinson’s (about 85-90%) have no known genetic link. Their children will likely not develop Parkinson’s. There are some known genetic variations that increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s. Like many other diseases, Parkinson’s is a result of a complex interaction between genes and environmental factors.

We’re here for you. Call the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline at 1.800.4PD.INFO (1-800-473-4636) for answers to all your questions. Staffed by nurses, social workers and therapists, the Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline is here to support you in any possible way.