The doctor being interviewed explains the hallmark signs of Parkinson's Disease. Also a commenter on the video was really informative - detailing what the "on/off" experience is like, and how unpredictable it is.
Dr. Tom Pitts, a board-certified neurologist, speaks with NBC's Tom Llamas about questions surrounding President Biden's health. Dr. Pitts has not examined the president, but shares opinions based on video clips of Biden.
Some common difficulties with speech includes:
- Speaking softly or in a reduced volume
- Using a monotone voice
- Slurring words
- Mumbling
- Stuttering or stammering
- Hoarseness or a strained quality
- Breathiness
- Uncertain articulation
Bradykinesia is a clinical term that refers to slowness of movement, or speed hesitations and halts that occur as movements continue. It can affect voluntary motions, like what you tell your body to do, as well as automatic or repetitive motions. Bradykinesia is a common symptom of movement conditions like Parkinson's disease (PD), and can make everyday tasks difficult.
In Parkinson's disease, hypomimia occurs when a lack of dopamine in the brain prevents facial muscles from working as well as they used to. This can make it difficult to smile, raise your eyebrows, or express your feelings, and can sometimes make it look like you have a blank expression.
In people with Parkinson’s, cognitive deficits may become more severe and impact daily functioning. Similar to slowness of movement (or bradykinesia), people with Parkinson's disease often report slower thinking and information processing (termed “bradyphrenia”)
Fatigue is a non-motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD) that can feel like a deep physical tiredness that doesn't improve with rest. It can make it feel impossible to move, as if you have no energy. Fatigue can occur at any point in the course of PD, whether movement symptoms are mild or severe.
