Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurological conditions worldwide, yet many people are surprised to learn just how common it really is. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to learn more, understanding how common Parkinson’s disease is can help bring awareness, compassion, and advocacy to those affected.

One of the most common and hopeful questions people ask after a Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis is: How soon will there be a cure for Parkinson’s? It’s a question filled with both optimism and urgency—and one that researchers, clinicians, and people living with PD think about every day.
While we don’t yet have a definitive answer, there is a great deal of progress and promise on the horizon.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While much has been learned about the disease over the past century, one question that still surfaces often is: Is Parkinson's disease caused by a virus?

When discussing Parkinson’s disease (PD), the term basal ganglia often comes up. But what happens to the basal ganglia in Parkinson's, and why is this part of the brain so important?

Understanding the Prevalence and Impact of Parkinson’s Disease
A question that many people ask—especially after a diagnosis or when a loved one begins showing symptoms—is: How common is Parkinson’s? Knowing how widespread the condition is can help put things in perspective and highlight the importance of community support and awareness.

Managing Nutrition to Support Medication and Quality of Life
When managing Parkinson’s disease (PD), medication is crucial—but diet also plays a powerful role. A common question that comes up is: what foods to avoid with Parkinson's disease? While there’s no universal “Parkinson’s diet,” understanding how food interacts with PD symptoms and medications can help maximize the benefits of treatment.

Recognizing Look-Alike Conditions That May Cause Similar Symptoms
When someone experiences symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowness of movement, Parkinson’s disease (PD) often comes to mind. But these symptoms are not exclusive to PD. So, what can mimic Parkinson’s disease? The answer may surprise you.
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Understanding these look-alike conditions is crucial for getting the right diagnosis—and the right treatment.

Understanding the Classic Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, and one of the earliest and most recognizable symptoms is known as pill-rolling. But what exactly is pill-rolling, and is it an early sign of Parkinson’s?

Understanding How Parkinson’s Disease Affects Individuals
​​One of the most frequently asked questions we hear is, “How does Parkinson’s disease spread from person to person?” The simple and reassuring answer is...

Understanding the Role of MRI in Diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease
​Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. One of the most frequently asked questions when someone begins to experience symptoms like tremors or stiffness is: Can Parkinson’s be detected by MRI?

Understanding the Difference Between Essential Tremor and Parkinson’s Disease
Many people often wonder: Is essential tremor a form of Parkinson’s? While both conditions involve shaking or tremors, essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are two distinct neurological disorders with different causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches.

What Vitamins Are Good for Parkinson's Disease?
​Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurological disorder that affects movement and can cause a variety of other symptoms. While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, certain vitamins and supplements may help support overall health and alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the condition.

Has Anyone Ever Recovered from Parkinson's Disease?
​When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), one of the first questions they or their loved ones might ask is: Has anyone ever recovered from Parkinson's disease?  While this is a completely understandable question full of hope, the current scientific and medical understanding of PD helps us frame the answer realistically and compassionately.

Understanding Parkinson’s Progression
One of the most common questions we hear is:
How long does it take for Parkinson's disease to progress? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, as Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects each person differently. However, understanding the general stages and timeline can help individuals and families prepare, plan, and find support.

How Does Parkinson's Disease Affect the Nervous System?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, coordination, and various functions of the nervous system. But how does Parkinson’s disease affect the nervous system, exactly?

Is Parkinson’s a Neurological Disorder?
Understanding the Nature of Parkinson’s Disease and How It Affects the Brain
When first diagnosed, many people and their families ask: Is Parkinson’s a neurological disorder? The answer is yes—Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, but can also impact a wide range of bodily functions and quality of life.

If Parkinson's is not curable, how does it progress?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. Over time, individuals with PD may experience increased difficulty with daily activities, mobility, and independence. While PD doesn't directly cause death, complications related to PD are involved.

Where Can I Find Free Resources and Support for Parkinson’s Patients in Southwest Florida?
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A Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. For individuals and families in Southwest Florida, free resources, support groups, and educational programs are available right in your own community. The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is here to help you live well with PD.