I've seen the future brother, it is murder!

Typically, PWP go through 5 stages although, the time spent in each stage varies and is not predictable. The stages I have to look forward to are:


Stage one: a patient usually experiences mild symptoms. Typically these symptoms include the presence of tremors or experiencing shaking in one of the limbs.

Stage two: the patients symptoms are bilateral, affecting both limbs and both sides of the body. He/she will have problems walking or maintaining balance.

Stage three: can be rather severe. Walking and standing can be difficult.

Stage four: severe symptoms of Parkinson's. Walking may still occur, but it is often limited and rigidity and bradykinesia are often visible. The tremors or shakiness that appeared during the earlier stages however, may lessen or disappear.

Stage five: The final stage of Parkinson's disease. The patient is usually unable to take care of himself or herself and may not be able to stand or walk. A patient at stage five usually requires constant one-on-one nursing care.

I am currently at stage one. Symptoms are rather annoying but under control. I suspect I will be dead before reaching stage 5 and in the meantime, there is a plethora of drugs to keep the symptoms in check.