Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease

What is Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease?

What sets early onset Parkinson’s apart

Because the majority of people who get Parkinson’s disease are over the age of 60, the disease is often overlooked in younger people, leading many to go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for extended periods of time.

However, once it has been diagnosed, the rate of the disease’s progression is usually much slower in younger people than older people, due in part to the fact that younger people have fewer general health problems and are more capable during physical therapy treatment.

Symptoms of young onset Parkinson’s disease

While common symptoms of Parkinson’s may be similar no matter what age you are, the progression is often different:

• Young people often have more involuntary movement problems due to the most commonly prescribed Parkinson’s disease medication, levodopa. For this reason, young onset patients are usually initially treated with alternatives to levodopa.
• Other problems associated with Parkinson’s such as memory loss, confusion, and balance difficulties tend to be less frequent in young people with the disease.

Living with Parkinson’s in early adulthood

Younger people will experience the disease differently than those who are diagnosed later in life, in part due to their different life circumstances. Employment, new relationships, and parenthood add particular challenges that those who are diagnosed older may not have to navigate. When and how to disclose the diagnosis is also of particular concern, such as when to tell young children, an employer, or a romantic partner.

Employment and Parkinson’s disease – A frequent issue that many people encounter, especially those with early onset PD, is navigating their continued employment. Learn more about your options and how others have handled similar situations.

Parenting with Parkinson’s disease – Navigating PD is challenging enough but add parenting into the mix and it can be a lot to tackle, both emotionally and physically. Helpful tips and advice from others who have been there can help.

The importance of support groups – Participants in young onset PD support groups report that they appreciate a space where they can speak uninhibited about their situation and unique struggles. To find a support group near you, contact an APDA Chapter or call 800.223.2732. 

Who gets early onset Parkinson’s disease?

About 10%-20% of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are under age 50, and about half of those are diagnosed before age 40. Approximately 90,000 new cases of Parkinson’s are diagnosed each year in the United States, meaning somewhere around 9,000 – 18,000 are young onset patients.

Is it genetic or hereditary?

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is not yet known. However, Parkinson’s disease has appeared across several generations of some families, which could indicate that certain forms of the disease are hereditary or genetic. Many researchers think that Parkinson’s disease may be caused by genetic factors combined with other external factors. The field of genetics is playing an ever greater role in Parkinson’s disease research, and scientists are continually working towards determining the cause or causes of PD.

Treatment for young onset Parkinson’s

There are a number of treatments and lifestyle changes that can ease Parkinson’s symptoms. Every treatment plan is different and may over time involve a combination of medication, exercise, physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy, complementary therapies, surgical treatments, and more.

Although there is no cure for the disease at this time, by identifying symptoms and determining a proper, proactive course of treatment and lifestyle changes, most people with the disease are able to remain active and lead fulfilling lives.

Are there doctors who specialize in Parkinson’s disease?

Yes. Doctors who are specially trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the brain and nervous system are called neurologists. Some neurologists have a subspecialty in movement disorders and work extensively with patients who have Parkinson’s disease and other similar conditions; these are called movement disorder specialists. These doctors also may have experience dealing with early onset Parkinson’s symptoms. If possible, it is recommended to seek the care of a movement disorder specialist, and if not, a general neurologist. You can ask your physician if they have specific experience with younger patients, or whether they can refer you to a doctor who does.

How do I find a Parkinson’s disease specialist?

Larger hospitals or university systems often have movement disorders centers. If you do not live in or near a large city, you may have to travel further for an appointment. While not as convenient, you may find it worthwhile to work with a physician who deals exclusively with movement disorders. Often, once stabilized, in-person appointments are not required very frequently. For help finding a movement disorder specialist or a neurologist, contact APDA online or via our toll-free helpline 800-223-2732, or connect with an APDA Chapter near you.

Bryan’s Early Onset Parkinson’s Diagnosis

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