Advanced Parkinson Disease— It’s More Than Just a Tremor

The incidence of Parkinson disease (PD) increases with age.(1) PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer disease (AD). On October 30, 2010, the VA recognized PD as being associated with exposure to Agent Orange and other herbicides during military service. Most primary care providers (PCPs), therefore, will take care of patients with PD during their careers. As PD advances, many patients will develop associated symptoms. It’s important
for all PCPs to be competent in the recognition, assessment, and initial management of these symptoms.