What’s the difference between Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism?

When someone experiences symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, or slowness of movement, the first thought might be Parkinson’s disease. However, these symptoms can also point to a broader category of neurological conditions known as Parkinsonism. So, what’s the difference between Parkinson’s disease and Parkinsonism?

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease:
​Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It occurs when brain cells that produce dopamine—a neurotransmitter responsible for controlling movement—begin to deteriorate. As dopamine levels decrease, individuals experience hallmark symptoms such as:

• Resting tremors
• Muscle rigidity
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
• Postural instability
• Changes in speech and facial expression

Parkinson’s disease is considered idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown in most cases. It is the most common form of Parkinsonism and responds well to treatments like Levodopa/Carbidopa, which boosts dopamine levels in the brain.

What Is Parkinsonism?
Parkinsonism is a general term used to describe a group of neurological disorders that cause movement symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease. However, Parkinsonism may have different underlying causes, and the symptoms might not respond well to traditional PD medications.
Types of Parkinsonism include:

• Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
• Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
• Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
• Drug-induced Parkinsonism
• Vascular Parkinsonism

These conditions may also include additional symptoms not typical of Parkinson’s disease, such as early balance problems, rapid progression, or issues with blood pressure regulation.

​Key Differences Between Parkinson’s Disease and Parkinsonism:

Feature                              Parkinson’s Disease                                 Parkinsonism
Cause                               Usually unknown (idiopathic)              Can be caused by medications, strokes, or           
                                                                                                                 other diseases
Response to                    Typically positive                                     Often poor or limited
Levodopa

Progression                     Slower and more predictable             Can be faster and more severe

Symptoms                       Mostly motor-related early on            Often includes additional non-motor  
                                                                                                                symptoms early

Diagnosis                         Based on clinical criteria                     May require advanced testing to 
                                                                                                                determine type

Understanding these differences is crucial for receiving the right diagnosis and care plan.

How the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida Can Help:
Whether you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or another form of Parkinsonism, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) is here to help.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has empowered individuals touched by Parkinson’s and related neurological disorders by offering:

• Over 25 free programs and support groups each week
• Evidence-based wellness classes
• Educational events with Parkinson’s experts
• A community of care for patients and caregivers

Membership is free and confidential. It’s easy to join, and you don’t have to face the journey alone.

Click here to sign up for PASWFL’s free newsletter
Click here to become a free member today
Visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org to learn more and take your next step toward living well with Parkinson’s or Parkinsonism.