Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and chronic nervous system disorder that primarily affects movement. It is a fairly common disorder, affecting over 200,000 Americans each year, and occurs more frequently in male patients, usually 60 years old or older. Although many Americans develop Parkinson’s disease, not much is known about the disease — there is no known cause or cure, and the treatments can only manage the condition and its symptoms.
Unfortunately, those with Parkinson’s disease can experience severe and debilitating physical and mental issues that could negatively affect their job performance and require treatment that is both expensive and not guaranteed to be entirely sufficient. If you or someone close to you is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you could be eligible for disability compensation. Call the long-term disability attorneys in Philadelphia, PA, at Rosen Moss Snyder LLP today if your disability benefits were denied or cut short by your insurance provider.
Symptoms & Complications of Parkinson’s Disease
Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary depending on the patient as can their severity and duration. Some patients with the condition can experience symptoms for several years or the rest of their lives. Some symptoms include:
- Tremors
- Slower Movements
- Impaired Balance & Posture
- Speech & Writing Changes
- Muscle Rigidity
- Dissipation of Automatic Movements (blinking, swinging arms while walking, smiling, etc.)
These symptoms can be debilitating on their own; however, those with Parkinson’s disease will often experience a litany of possible complications that can make the disease more difficult to manage. Some complications include thinking difficulties, fatigue, pain, swallowing issues, challenges with chewing, eating, and swallowing, depression, emotional disturbance, and sleep disorders, among many others.
Causes of Parkinson’s Disease
As we mentioned previously, there is no known cause of Parkinson’s disease. Although exhaustive studies have unfogged some of the unknown, there is much we still do not know. Scientists have suggested that rare genetic mutations and variations, environmental factors and toxin exposure, and brain cell substances known as Lewey bodies could indicate higher risks of developing Parkinson’s disease, but they are very specific and uncommon.
As of right now, the causes of Parkinson’s disease are still unknown, and more studies must be done to get to the bottom of this mystery.
If you or a loved one are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and find that your productivity at work is negatively affected by your symptoms and complications, you could make a disability claim with your employer. If, for some reason, your disability claim gets denied or your benefits get cut off, the ERISA disability lawyers in Philadelphia, PA, at Rosen Moss Snyder LLP are prepared to take your side and get you the disability benefits you deserve.
Call us today to set up a free consultation!