![Man sitting on couch reading book](/sites/default/files/styles/1920x530/public/images/understandingpd-desktop.png?h=9d72004b&itok=VQ9ViOVF)  

#  Understanding Parkinson's 

 

 

 

 

 Explore in this section Explore in this section 

 

 

  There is a lot to know about Parkinson's disease (PD). Learn about its various symptoms, how it is diagnosed, treated, and most importantly, how to live a better life with Parkinson's. Parkinson’s is an individualized disease. While each person’s experience with Parkinson’s is unique, the more you know, the more empowered you will be to play an active role in your care and manage your life with Parkinson’s.

 

  ##  Get Informed 

  ![Lady sitting talking to doctor](/sites/default/files/styles/1920px_wide/public/images/3UpCards-doctor.jpg?itok=IyTGpmVz) 

 ##  10 Early Signs 

It can be hard to tell if you or a loved one has Parkinson’s. We highlight 10 signs that can indicate Parkinson’s. While no single one means you should worry, find out when you should talk to your doctor.

 [SEE EARLY SIGNS](/understanding-parkinsons/10-early-signs) ##  What is Parkinson’s? 

Let’s break down Parkinson’s and the key takeaways you should understand about this disease. Get to know its stages, separate the myths from truths, and learn about conditions related to Parkinson’s.

 [LEARN MORE](/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons) ##  Causes 

Can you inherit Parkinson’s? Scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors causes Parkinson’s. Learn more about the genes that are connected to PD and the role they play.

 [FIND OUT MORE](/understanding-parkinsons/causes) 

 

  ![Doctor looking at a clay brain](/sites/default/files/styles/620x620/public/images/understandingpdsymptomsfeature.jpg?h=730908e3&itok=Kj6m_Lf6)  

##  Understanding Parkinson's Symptoms 

 Parkinson’s is called a movement disorder because it affects movement, including tremors, slowness of movements and trouble walking. However, non-movement symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, depression and speech problems are extremely common and often more disabling than the symptoms you can see.

 

 [More about Movement Symptoms](/understanding-parkinsons/movement-symptoms) 

 [More about Non-Movement Symptoms](/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms) 

 

 

 

  ![Pharmacist looking at medicine](/sites/default/files/styles/620x620/public/images/findingyouridealtreatmentfeature.jpg?h=c35dd7bb&itok=-GXh2Bql)  

##  Finding Your Ideal Treatment 

 Parkinson’s treatments should be customized for each person and address the most troublesome symptoms. While the most common treatments include medication and surgical options, lifestyle modifications — like exercise — should also be part of your treatment plan. Finding the correct combination of treatments leads to a better quality of life.

 

 [MEDICATIONS](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/prescription-medications) 

 [EXERCISE](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/exercise) 

 [SURGICAL OPTIONS](/living-with-parkinsons/treatment/surgical-treatment-options) 

 

 

 

  ##  Related Materials 

   Videos & Webinars 

###  [ What are the different forms and stages of Parkinson's disease? ](/library/videos/stages) 



 [Watch Now](/library/videos/stages)

   Audiobooks 

###  [ Managing PD Mid-Stride: A Treatment Guide to Parkinson's Disease ](/library/audiobooks/midstride) 



 [Listen Now](/library/audiobooks/midstride)

   Books 

###  [ Frequently Asked Questions: A Guide to Parkinson’s Disease ](/library/books/faq) 



 [Read Now](/library/books/faq)

  

 ##   Join the Fight Against Parkinson's  

 Support our mission to make life better for people with Parkinson’s. Your gift will help us improve care and advance research toward a cure.

 

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  [Donate](https://secure3.convio.net/prkorg/site/Donation2?11283.donation=form1&df_id=11283&mfc_pref=T&l&set.DonationLevel=26822&set.Value=) 

 

 

 

 

 

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