Common symptoms of Parkinson's disease:
- Stiff muscles. Most people with Parkinson’s have some rigidness that makes it hard to move parts of the body. That’s because your muscles can't relax normally. This may also cause you pain.
- Tremor. This uncontrolled shaking usually starts in the hands and arms, although it can happen in the jaw or feet, too. You often notice your thumb and forefinger rubbing together, especially when you're resting your hand or feeling stressed.
- In the beginning, tremor usually affects only one side of your body or one limb. Over time, the shaking may spread to other parts of your body, although not everyone gets tremor.
- Slow movements. Actions like walking, getting out of bed, and even talking become harder and slower. Doctors call this bradykinesia. It happens because your brain’s signal to specific parts of the body slows down. Bradykinesia can give your face an expressionless, mask-like look.
- Changes in walking. A common early sign is that your arm or arms stop swinging naturally when you walk. Your steps might become short and shuffling. You may have trouble walking around corners, or feel as if your feet are glued to the floor.