I don’t concern myself too much with stages. One neurologist I saw had me bouncing up and down different stages each visit. Stage determination seems to be as fickle as PD’s symptoms.
May 13
There are 5 main stages of Parkinson's disease, based on the Hoehn and Yahr scale (developed in 1967). An updated version also includes stages 1.5 and 2.5 to capture intermediate progression.
Here's a quick overview:
- Stage 1 – Mild symptoms on one side of the body; daily life mostly unaffected
- Stage 2 – Both sides of Show Full Answer
There are 5 main stages of Parkinson's disease, based on the Hoehn and Yahr scale (developed in 1967). An updated version also includes stages 1.5 and 2.5 to capture intermediate progression.
Here's a quick overview:
- Stage 1 – Mild symptoms on one side of the body; daily life mostly unaffected
- Stage 2 – Both sides of the body affected; daily tasks take longer but independence is maintained
- Stage 3 – Balance issues and more noticeable motor symptoms; most can still live independently
- Stage 4 – Symptoms are severe; a walker or caregiver assistance is often needed
- Stage 5 – Most advanced stage; wheelchair or full-time care is typically required It's worth knowing that Parkinson's affects everyone differently — not everyone progresses through the stages at the same pace or experiences the same symptoms. Some people stay in earlier stages for many years.
Doctors may also use the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) alongside the Hoehn and Yahr scale to get a fuller picture, including non-movement symptoms like mood and memory changes.
May 5
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