Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may vary in severity and frequency, but the disease has been known to take on 5 stages. The length of each stage may vary on the individuals, and skipping of stages is common.

The first stage is the initial phase of the disorder. In this stage, the individual will start to experience mild symptoms. Even though the symptoms are only mild, then may still cause the individual to have minor inconveniences with day-to-day activities that could normally be done with ease. Typical symptoms in this stage would include shaking in a limb or tremors. At this stage, the family and friends of the individual will detect changes like abnormal facial expressions, loss of balance and poor posture.

In the second stage of the disease, the individual will start having bilateral symptoms.  This means that the symptom will start affecting both limbs and sides of the body. The individual will start having problems maintaining their balance or walking. Their inability to complete physical activities will also be more apparent.

In the third stage of Parkinson’s disease, the symptoms will be very severe and the individual will not be able to stand or walk straight. Physical movements will be noticeably slower.

The fourth stage of Parkinson’s disease will be accompanied by more severe symptoms of the disease. The individual will still be able to walk, but it will be rigid and limited. Bradykinesia will now be more visible. It is at this stage that the individuals will not be able to complete their daily tasks, and will now not be able to live by themselves. During this time, the shakiness or tremors will lessen or, sometimes, be non-existent.

The fifth and final stage of the disease will take over the individual’s movements. At this stage, the individual will no longer be able to take care of him/herself, and they might no longer be able to stand or walk. Individuals suffering from stage 5 Parkinson’s disease will need one-on-one care.