Parkinson’s Disease Overview

Issues With Urination

A few different issues with urination can occur over the course of Parkinson's disease. One is urinary incontinence, which causes affected individuals to be unable to hold their urine. Another is bladder dysfunction, which can lead to frequent urination and a feeling of an urgent need to urinate. These two problems may sometimes occur together. Urination issues have a significant impact on the quality of life of Parkinson's patients. Research shows that around twenty-seven to thirty-nine percent of individuals with Parkinson's disease experience some difficulty with urination. However, total incontinence only occurs in approximately fifteen percent of patients. It is more common for bladder problems to develop in Parkinson's later stages. The most common problem patients report is frequently and urgently needing to urinate even if their bladder is not full.

Cognitive Problems

Cognitive problems commonly occur with Parkinson's disease, though not every patient experiences them. Cognitive issues are problems related to thinking and memory. The severity of the issues varies widely from case to case. With more mild symptoms, the condition is called 'mild cognitive impairment.' However, more severe symptoms that impact everyday life are called dementia. Thinking and memory are complicated areas with dozens of unique aspects. The most commonly reported difficulties are with concentrating and paying attention, problem-solving, multitasking, and short-term memory. The awareness of where objects are in relation to the patient is also impacted. Some Parkinson's disease medications can increase confusion as one of their side effects. If individuals notice cognitive issues in themselves or a loved one with Parkinson's disease, it is essential to talk to a doctor to determine the cause and treatment options.