Parkinson's disease is an illness that affects the part of your brain that controls how you move your body.

Some people with Parkinson’s first notice weakness, difficulty walking, and stiff muscles. Others may notice head or hand tremor.

Early symptoms of Parkinson's disease are usually mild and generally occur gradually.

Parkinson's disease appears to have five different stages. Symptoms may be mild or severe or occur frequently or infrequently.

There’s no specific test for Parkinson’s disease. Doctors usually make the diagnosis based on your symptoms and an exam.

Most people can get relief from Parkinson’s symptoms with drugs. But some may need surgery if their meds stop working well.

Generally, surgery is only a treatment for Parkinson's disease when medicine doesn't make your symptoms better.

Difficulty speaking and swallowing can be Parkinson's symptoms. Both can be helped by a speech pathologist or speech therapist.

Parkinson's may cause you to move slowly. You may feel tightness, pain, and weakness. Physical and occupational therapy may help.

While there is no special diet for people with Parkinson's disease, eating a balanced, nutritious diet is extremely beneficial.

If your Parkinson's symptoms come back after you've been controlling them for years with medicine, you have ways to get help.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s can interfere with driving a car. But many people with early Parkinson’s can safely continue driving.

Caring for someone with Parkinson's disease can be tiring and frustrating. Here are some tips for helping caregivers cope.