Parkinson's disease is divided into several types.

Written by Zhou Yan

Geriatrics

Updated on June 30, 2025

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Parkinson's disease is only one type, while Parkinson's syndrome is divided into four main categories: Parkinson's disease, secondary Parkinson's syndrome, atypical Parkinson's syndrome, and genetic variant Parkinson's syndrome. The causes of Parkinson's disease are related to several factors, including brain aging, genetics, and environmental factors. The causes of secondary Parkinson's syndrome are more specific and may include cerebrovascular disease, encephalitis, heavy metal poisoning, carbon monoxide poisoning, etc. Atypical Parkinson's syndrome generally has symptoms in addition to those typical of Parkinson's disease, including other neurological impairments.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

53sec

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What department should you go to for Parkinson's disease?

Registration for Parkinson's disease should be in the Department of Neurology, as Parkinson's disease is a common disorder within neurology, so seeing a neurologist is sufficient. Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease, primarily affecting middle-aged and elderly people. Although there is a genetic predisposition in some cases of Parkinson's disease, those with a family history might develop the disease in their youth, but sporadic cases generally occur in middle-aged or older individuals. Patients exhibit many motor symptoms that severely affect their quality of life, including muscle rigidity, limb tremors, and slowed movement, as well as other complications. Many neurologists are very familiar with Parkinson's disease and have seen many patients with it, possessing significant diagnostic and treatment experience. Therefore, consulting neurology is entirely appropriate.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

59sec

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Is Parkinson's disease hereditary?

A small portion of Parkinson's disease has a genetic predisposition. According to research statistics, about 5% to 10% of Parkinson’s disease cases are familial, caused by certain gene mutations leading to neurodegeneration. This part of the disease does have a genetic predisposition. However, it does not mean that if the parents have the disease, the child will definitely inherit it; environmental factors are also related. Most cases of Parkinson’s disease do not have a genetic predisposition and are sporadic, possibly related to cerebral ischemia, hypoxia, stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and long-term exposure to certain toxins. These aspects are definitely not hereditary. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that can cause symptoms such as bradykinesia, increased muscle tone, and unstable posture. It is important to seek medical treatment promptly.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min 5sec

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How long can someone with Parkinson's disease live?

Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. It has a slow and inconspicuous onset, and it progresses gradually. The disease itself does not affect the patient's lifespan, as it does not impact the functions of heartbeats or breathing. If treated properly, cared for promptly, medications are taken as prescribed by the doctor, and followed up long-term, patients can survive about twenty years without problems. However, if patients adjust their medications on their own, stop taking their medications without consultation, or receive improper care from family members leading to accidental injuries or complications such as lung infections, then their lifespan can be significantly shortened. Once bedridden, life expectancy may rapidly decline. Therefore, with proper treatment and care, patients with Parkinson's disease can survive for about ten to twenty years. If care and treatment are not managed properly, patients may be threatened by fractures or lung infections, potentially reducing their lifespan to about five to ten years.

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Written by Zhou Yan

Geriatrics

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Early symptoms of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease begins inconspicuously and progresses gradually. There are two main categories of symptoms in Parkinson's disease: motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms. In the early stages of the disease, one can appear normal, or may experience motor symptoms like bradykinesia or rigidity, often starting asymmetrically. Symptoms commonly begin on one side of the upper limbs, and less frequently start from the lower limbs, eventually spreading to the limbs on the other side. Non-motor symptoms can occur at various stages of Parkinson's disease, including the pre-motor phase, such as loss of smell, sleep disturbances, constipation, depression, and more.

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Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

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What foods should be eaten for Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease does not have any specific dietary restrictions, but the following aspects are recommended for patients: First, patients should consume more laxative vegetables and fruits, such as spinach, bananas, and celery, which help maintain the motility of the large intestine and promote bowel movements. Since many Parkinson's patients suffer from constipation, these foods can greatly improve their bowel movements and are recommended. Second, Parkinson's patients can also eat foods that nourish brain cells, such as pine nuts, walnuts, and pistachios. Third, patients may consume some plant oils, mainly olive oil, which can also play a good regulatory role. Fourth, Parkinson's patients should be cautious about the timing of protein intake in relation to their medication schedule, to avoid affecting the absorption of the medication.