7. Non-Motor Symptoms: Beyond Movement
While both Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism are characterized by motor symptoms, their non-motor symptoms can also differ. In Parkinson’s disease, non-motor symptoms are common and can include sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, constipation, and urinary problems. These non-motor symptoms can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life and may require targeted treatment.
On the other hand, non-motor symptoms in Parkinsonism depend on the specific underlying condition. Some forms of secondary Parkinsonism may have few, if any, non-motor symptoms. However, atypical Parkinsonism associated with other neurodegenerative diseases can present with a wide range of non-motor symptoms, which may be more severe or debilitating than those seen in Parkinson’s disease.
Understanding the differences in non-motor symptoms between Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism can help healthcare providers develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the patient’s condition. (7)
