The basic diagnosis of Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease is the same as typical Parkinson’s disease. The only difference is the age of the person. According to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, the average age of regular diagnosis is 62, but if the person is diagnosed before the age of 50, it is considered to be Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease.
Common Symptoms
There are some specific symptoms that are more common in patients with Young-Onset PD. The evidence that exists today suggests that PD patients with a younger age when the disease begins may have the following symptoms:
- Slower progression of the disease
- A faster rate of dystonia, or abnormal postures. These include turning in or arching the foot and toes.
- A lower incidence of dementia that accompanies PD
- A higher rate of dyskinesias after L-DOPA treatment.
Just as with regular PD, the speed/severity of disease progression can vary a great deal in patients with Young-Onset Parkinson’s disease.
How Much of a Role Does Genetics Play?
A big one, in many cases. Genes have been identified as a partial cause of Young-Onset PD. It is known as the LRRK-2 gene or the Parkin 9 gene. In facts, as many as 50% of Young-Onset patients could have the gene.
Research is still being done to understand how genes and the environment may cause PD> Theories have suggested that genes could play more of a role in young onset versions of the disease, and the environment could be more important in regular PD. More research must be done to really understand the roles of genes and the environment in the formation of PD in patients of all ages.
Does Juvenile Parkinson’s Exist?
In some very rare cases, symptoms of Parkinson’s can occur in children and teens. This form of the disease is called Juvenile Parkinsonism, and is viewed as a distinct condition and usually has a genetic basis.
About 10$ of the 1 million people with PD are under the age of 40. PD often is overlooked as a possibility in younger people, so the number of people under 40 with PD could actually be higher.
Supplies for Parkinson’s Patients
Norco Molded Sock Aid with Two Handles
Whatever the age of your loved one with PD, you can help him or her to live a much more normal and productive life with a broad selection of Parkinson’s products. Most of these products are inexpensive and they really help to offer hope to PD patients and their caregivers. For example, the Dressing Stick and Shoehorn makes it easier to take off clothes and shoes, which is a problem that many PD patients have. Zipper Rings have one inch rings and a clip so that they can clip to zippers. Having the ring to grab makes it much easier to open or close the zipper for the PD patient. The Norco Molded Sock Aid with Two Handles is perfect for the PD patient who has trouble reaching their feet to put on socks and stockings.