Parkinson's And Stress

Parkinson’s and stress are enemies. They don’t like each other and often bring out the worst in each other. Stress can cause PD, trigger the onset of PD, make PD symptoms worse, and conversely PD symptoms can increase stress. The Michael J. Fox website states that, “Chronic stress will increase the extent of brain cell loss in PD-associated brain structures. There is ample evidence that PD symptoms worsen during times of stress.” Parkinson’s is a neurological disease and stress and strong emotions can make neurological symptoms worse. 

What Is Stress?

Stress is the bodies reaction to any physical or emotional situation, positive or negative, that results in the release of a complex mix of hormones and chemicals such as epinephrine (adrenaline), cortisol and norepinephrine which cause an “adrenaline rush” that increases blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, increased blood flow to the muscles, and shuts down unnecessary bodily functions such as digestion. Theoretically this enables us to focus our attention so we can respond quickly to the event. You know it as the feeling that makes you want to jump out of your skin.

Does Stress Cause PD?

Stress causes many diseases: heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, psychological problems are just a few. The impact of stress on PD is not yet fully understood but research indicates that stressful life events may increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Studies show that stress damages dopamine cells and that stress negatively affects dopamine synthesis and release. We also know that stress early in life affects brain development which leads researchers to believe that stress can cause Parkinson’s. 

Can Stress Trigger Initial Onset Of PD?

Some PD people I know trace the onset of symptoms to a specific stressful event. I remember the incident where my symptoms first kicked in although I didn’t know at the time that it was PD. I was waiting in line in a grocery store and someone cut in front of me. When I said something they became aggressive and I stupidly responded. After the incident my body began to shake and I’ve been shaking ever since.

Does Stress Make PD Symptoms Worse?

Of course it does. Every PWP knows from experience that stress makes their symptoms worse, especially tremors, freezing, balance, and anxiety. Not enough research has been done on stress and PD but it is known that stress plays a role in many neurodegenerative disorders and that chronic stress decreases dopamine levels. According to Dr. Amie Hiller, at the Oregon Health and Science University, “Our goal is to not only treat symptoms of PD, but to slow progression of the disease. Stress reduction is something we could think about to slow Parkinson’s disease progression.”

How To Reduce Stress.

Be aware of the things that stress you and try to avoid them. Give yourself permission to not do anything you don’t want to. You have PD. People will understand. Practice stress reduction breathing and meditation. Regular exercise. Go for walks. Don’t hesitate to ask your friendly doctor for a prescription for chill pills. Just knowing that you have them if you need them can help make you less anxious. I know it is not easy. Having Parkinson’s is stressful in itself.