What is a common symptom of Parkinson's disease?

Get ready for your EPPP Physiology Exam with our interactive quizzes and comprehensive study materials. Enhance your understanding of key topics and improve your confidence with detailed explanations and helpful hints.

Muscle rigidity is a hallmark symptom of Parkinson's disease, which is a neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting movement. This rigidity results from the dysfunction of the basal ganglia, a group of structures in the brain that are essential for coordinating movement. In individuals with Parkinson's disease, there is a significant loss of dopamine-producing neurons, leading to increased muscle tone and resistance to passive movement. As a result, patients often experience stiffness, decreased range of motion, and discomfort in their muscles. Muscle rigidity can affect various body parts, including the arms, legs, and neck, making daily activities difficult.

In contrast to this symptom, increased energy and increased appetite are not typically associated with Parkinson's disease. In fact, many individuals with this condition may experience fatigue and a decrease in appetite due to the challenges they face with movement and overall health. A rapid heartbeat can occur in some individuals with Parkinson's disease, often due to the autonomic nervous system being affected, but it is not a primary symptom. Therefore, muscle rigidity stands out as a clear and significant characteristic of Parkinson's disease.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy