Parkinson's
What part of the body does Parkinson’s disease mainly affect?
The brain and nervous system — especially movement and coordination.
What does a physical therapist (PT) help with in Parkinson’s disease?
Mobility, gait, balance, strength, posture, and fall prevention.
What is the leaf like structure that covers your airway called?
Epiglottis
True or false: Tremor is always present in Parkinson’s disease.
False
Should people with Parkinson's drink alcohol?
In many cases, moderate alcohol consumption is fine for people with PD. However, it can worsen symptoms or interact with medications.
What type of doctor usually manages Parkinson’s disease?
A neurologist (sometimes a movement disorder specialist).
What medication is typically prescribed for PD?
carbidopa-levodopa
What kind of specialist helps people with swallowing disorders?
A speech-language pathologist (SLP).
What is the typical age range when Parkinson’s disease most often begins?
After age 60 (though it can occur earlier).
What is Parkinson's vs. Parkinsonism?
Parkinsonism refers to symptoms associated with PD. Some with parkinsonism have atypical variants (MSA, PSP, CBD, DLB)
Besides doctors, what types of therapists often help people with Parkinson’s?
Speech-language pathologists (for voice/swallowing), physical therapists (for movement/balance), and occupational therapists (for daily activities).
True or false: Exercise may slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms.
True — research suggests exercise may have neuroprotective benefits.
Why is good oral hygiene important for people with swallowing problems
Because bacteria in the mouth can travel to the lungs if food or liquid enters the airway, increasing the risk of pneumonia.
Name one non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
Constipation, sleep changes, mood changes, soft voice, loss of smell, etc.
What causes PD?
Researchers believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors cause PD?
About how many people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease?
Nearly 1 million people.
Name one daily activity that OT can help make easier for someone with Parkinson’s.
Dressing, eating, writing, grooming, cooking, or using household tools.
What is the risk if food or liquid “goes down the wrong pipe” into the airway (aspiration)?
It can lead to choking, lung infections, or pneumonia.
How can regular exercise help people with Parkinson’s disease?
It can improve mobility, balance, strength, mood, and overall quality of life.
Which chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) is reduced in Parkinson’s disease?
Dopamine
At what age does Parkinson’s most often begin?
Usually after age 60, but it can sometimes start earlier (young-onset Parkinson’s).
What is bradykinesia?
What is 'slow movement'
What are some warning signs of a swallowing disorder?
Coughing or choking while eating, wet/gurgly voice after drinking, taking a long time to eat, or feeling like food is stuck.
What does an occupational therapist (OT) focus on for people with Parkinson’s disease?
Improving daily activities (ADLs), energy conservation, hand function, and adapting the home environment.
True or false: Tremor is always present in Parkinson’s disease.
False