Parkinson’s disease is a medical condition that affects the nervous system. It affects movement and is progressive in nature. In most people, it starts out as minor shaking or tremors in one or both hands. It can also cause slower movements or stiffness.
What Happens in the Early Stages of Parkinson’s Disease?
The early stages of the condition can affect certain movements. You may develop muscle tightness of the face, restricting expression. You may also experience slurred speech. Your arms may not swing while walking.
While there are medications that can help with symptoms, Parkinson’s is a progressive disease that has no cure.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
There are numerous symptoms that come with Parkinson’s. These can vary depending on the person, but generally, in the early stages, they are mild and may not be detected by others. They usually start on one side of the body and are worse there when the other side is also affected.
Symptoms include the following:
- Tremor: Your hand may tremor even when you are at rest.
- Slow movements: The PD slows movements over time, making routine tasks more difficult.
- Rigid muscles: Stiffness of the muscles is common with Parkinson’s and can limit your range of motion.
- Impaired balance and posture: Balance and posture are frequently impaired with the condition.
- Loss of automatic movements: Parkinson’s can result in a loss of automatic movements, such as blinking, facial expressions, and arm-swinging while walking.
- Speech changes: Slurred or softer speech is common with Parkinson’s.
- Writing changes: Parkinson’s can make it difficult to write.
Claiming Disability for Parkinson’s Disease
Unfortunately, insurance companies make it difficult to apply for long-term disability benefits. If you have Parkinson’s disease, the insurer may claim you aren’t automatically entitled to benefits.
Showing detailed proof of your diagnosis, which includes medical records and details of your symptoms, and how they affect your everyday life is important. This is particularly crucial if your condition significantly impacts your ability to work and you are unable to earn a living salary.
If you or someone you love developed Parkinson’s and are having difficulty getting the disability benefits you deserve, we are here to listen. If you’d like an experienced Florida disability attorney from the Dabdoub Law Firm to evaluate your case, please send us an email or call (800) 969-0488.