Classifying different stages of Parkinson’s disease is essential for monitoring the progression of the condition as well as identifying any headway made with certain treatment options. There are generally five stages of Parkinson’s disease and due to the slow progression of Parkinson’s, it may be difficult at times to clearly categorize individual cases into specific stages. The intensity of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may vary, sometimes even on a daily basis, and certain cases may even skip some of the early stages of Parkinson’s disease.

Stage 1 of Parkinson’s Disease (Mild)

• Symptoms are mild and may only affect one side.
• Daily functioning is not impaired although tremors create difficulty.
• Slightly evident changes in balance, posture, movement and facial expression.

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Understanding Parkinson’s disease

Deep brain stimulation is a surgical procedure which can help greatly with the symptoms most commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease such as rigidity, stiffness, slowed movement and problems with walking and movement. However deep brain stimulation at the present is only an option for those sufferers whose medication doesn’t adequately control their symptoms.

What’s involved with deep brain stimulation?

The surgery is performed by inserting a battery operated device which is called a neurostimulator, the stimulator then sends out pulses to targeted areas of the brain that control the patients movement. This in turn blocks the abnormal brain signals which cause the tremors commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease. (more…)