SOUTHERN CAPE NEWS - Many doctors who diagnose this brain disorder rely on the Hoehn and Yahr rating scale to classify the severity of symptoms.
Stage 1 is the mildest form of Parkinson's. At this stage, there may be symptoms, but they're not severe enough to interfere with daily tasks and overall lifestyle. The symptoms at this stage often go unnoticed, but family and friends may notice changes in posture, walk, or facial expressions.
A distinct symptom of stage 1 Parkinson's is that tremors and other difficulties in movement are generally exclusive to one side of the body.
Stage 2 patients may experience a more noticeable degree of stiffness, tremors, and trembling, and changes in facial expressions can occur. Stage 2 does not impair balance.
Difficulty with walking may develop or increase, and the person's posture may start to change. People at this stage feel symptoms on both sides of the body (though one side may only be minimally affected) and sometimes experience speech difficulties. The majority of people with stage 2 Parkinson's can still live alone.
The progression from stage 1 to stage 2 can take months or even years and there is no way to predict individual progression.
Stage 3 is the middle stage in Parkinson's. It marks a major turning point in the progression of the disease. Many of the symptoms are the same as those in stage 2.
However, patients are now more likely to experience loss of balance and decreased reflexes. Movements become slower overall. This is why falls become more common in stage 3.
Stage 4 is distinguished from stage 3 by the patient's degree of independence. During stage 4, it's still possible to stand without assistance, but movement may require a walker or other type of assistive device.
Stage 5 is the most advanced stage. Advanced stiffness in the legs can cause freezing upon standing, making it impossible to stand or walk. People in this stage require wheelchairs, and they're often unable to stand on their own without falling. Full-time nursing is required. - Source: Healthline
This article is for informative purposes only. Please see your doctor if you experience any symptoms. Questions can be forwarded to questions@walkindoctor.co.za.
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