What Can Mimic Parkinson's Disease?

Recognizing Look-Alike Conditions That May Cause Similar Symptoms
When someone begins experiencing tremors, stiffness, balance issues, or slowness of movement, it’s natural to wonder: Is this Parkinson’s disease? While these hallmark symptoms are commonly associated with Parkinson’s, they are not exclusive to it. In fact, several other conditions can closely mimic Parkinson’s disease (PD), leading to confusion, delayed treatment, or misdiagnosis.

Understanding these “look-alike” conditions is critical for receiving the right diagnosis and, in many cases, avoiding unnecessary worry or pursuing more effective treatment strategies.
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So, what can mimic Parkinson’s disease?  The answer may surprise you.
Understanding these look-alike conditions is crucial for getting the right diagnosis—and the right treatment.

What Can Mimic Parkinson's Disease?
Several medical conditions can present with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease. Here are some of the most common:

1. Essential Tremor (ET)
Essential tremor is one of the most common movement disorders and is frequently confused with Parkinson’s disease, especially in its early stages. Unlike Parkinson’s tremors—which typically occur when the body is at rest—ET causes tremors during movement, such as when writing, drinking from a glass, or holding utensils.

ET usually doesn’t include the muscle stiffness or slowness of movement that defines PD. Though not life-threatening, it can affect quality of life and may require treatment with medications or procedures like deep brain stimulation.

2. Drug-Induced Parkinsonism
Some medications, particularly antipsychotics and drugs used to treat nausea, can interfere with dopamine signaling in the brain and result in Parkinson-like symptoms. This condition is called drug-induced parkinsonism, and it can mimic nearly all motor symptoms of PD—such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness).

The good news is that symptoms often improve or resolve once the offending medication is stopped. Accurate medication history is essential in identifying this condition.

​3. Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
NPH occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles. This condition can cause a trio of symptoms:

• Walking difficulties
• Memory issues
• Urinary incontinence

These symptoms can be mistaken for Parkinson’s or even Alzheimer’s disease. Unlike Parkinson’s, however, NPH may be reversible with proper diagnosis and surgical intervention, such as a shunt to drain the excess fluid.

4. Atypical Parkinsonian Disorders
There are several disorders that look similar to Parkinson’s but are technically different conditions. These include:

• Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
• Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
• Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)

Collectively referred to as atypical parkinsonisms, these diseases often progress more rapidly and do not respond well to standard Parkinson’s medications. Early referral to a movement disorder specialist can help differentiate these complex conditions.
 
5. Stroke and Other Brain Lesions
Sudden changes in movement or balance may result from a stroke, brain tumor, or other structural issues in the brain. These can sometimes mimic the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, especially when they affect the parts of the brain that control movement. However, strokes tend to cause more sudden and localized changes, often paired with additional neurological symptoms like speech difficulties or vision loss.

When to Seek a Specialist
Because so many conditions can mimic Parkinson’s, an accurate diagnosis often requires consultation with a neurologist or movement disorder specialist. They may order brain imaging, review your medication history, and conduct physical evaluations to better understand the underlying cause.
Getting the correct diagnosis means getting the right treatment—and peace of mind. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that resemble Parkinson’s, don’t delay seeking professional care. Early intervention can make all the difference.

For more resources, support groups, or to speak with someone who understands, please visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
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For more than 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech and cognitive therapy
• Art and music therapy
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• One-on-one resource navigation

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
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To learn more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.