Debunking Common Myths About Parkinson's Disease

As with a lot of conditions, there are many myths about Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Misconceptions can create unnecessary fear, delay diagnosis and prevent people from

seeking the best care. Understanding the reality of Parkinson’s is essential for optimising treatment, improving quality of life and empowering those affected.

Below, the emPowereD team separates fact from fiction and provides practical insights for

living well with PD with some important PD Tips that could help your journey.

Myth 1: Parkinson’s disease only affects movement.

Reality

While Parkinson’s is best known for motor symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and

slowed movement, it is more than a movement disorder.

Many people experience non-motor symptoms that can significantly impact daily life, including:

● Sleep disturbances

● Anxiety and depression

● Changes in thinking

● Loss of smell

● Fatigue

● Constipation and bladder issues

● Pain and tingling sensations

Tip

Many non-motor symptoms are treatable. It’s important to discuss these with your treating

doctor at your next visit so they can help tailor your treatment plan.

Myth 2: If someone with Parkinson’s looks fine, they must feel fine.

Reality

PD symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day, particularly after the condition has been

present for a number of years. A person may appear well during their 'on' times (when medication is working) but struggle with symptoms during 'off' times (when medication

wears off). Non-motor symptoms like constipation, fatigue, or depression may not be visible

but can be deeply troubling, and can be more or less severe than physical symptoms.

Tip

Trying to establish how your symptoms change in relation to medication timing can help doctors

optimise treatment for better symptom control. People can be reluctant to discuss how they

feel or their levels of anxiety, but in fact these emotional and psychologic components of

Parkinson’s disease are some of the symptoms which respond most effectively to treatment.

Myth 3: Parkinson’s symptoms can suddenly flare up.

Reality

PD symptoms tend to worsen slowly over time — usually over months to years. If symptoms

worsen rapidly over days or weeks, another factor is often the cause, such as:

● Medication changes

● Infection (such as a urinary tract infection)

● Dehydration

● Sleep deprivation

● Stress or emotional distress

Tip

Certain medications—including some nausea and antipsychotic drugs—can worsen PD

symptoms. It’s important to disclose your PD when you see a doctor in any circumstance to

avoid medications that might exacerbate your symptoms.

Myth 4: A Parkinson’s disease diagnosis means I won’t have a good quality of life.

Reality

A diagnosis of PD comes with many challenges, and people may feel as though their sense of “normal” shifts. It can take months to come to terms with the diagnosis, but with good management, most people with Parkinson’s disease are able to continue living well and maintain their quality of life.

Tip

Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and expert medical care can significantly improve quality of life and longevity. emPowered has more information about living with Parkinson’s disease that can support you live your best life with PD.

Myth 5: Only older adults get Parkinson’s.

Reality

While PD is more common in people over 60, Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) affects individuals under 50. These cases often progress more slowly but come with unique challenges related to work, family, and financial planning.

Tip

Regardless of age, early diagnosis and proactive lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and better sleep can make a significant difference. It is important to see your treating doctors regularly to optimise management of your symptoms. There are online forums for YOPD which facilitate connection with other people who are going through the same situation.  Some people find these forums very helpful.

Myth 6: A doctor can predict your exact prognosis.

Reality

PD is highly individual. No two people experience it in the same way. It can be difficult to predict exactly how someone will respond to medication or how their symptoms will progress. Certain physical symptoms do tend to occur in a certain sequence.  This knowledge can help experienced health practitioners to help optimise symptom treatment at all of the different phases of Parkinson’s disease.  

Tip

Your proactiveness can shape your future. Regular exercise, quality sleep, and good nutrition improve mobility, stamina, and mental well-being. These interventions can be helpful for PD whether you have had the condition for 20 days or 20 years.

Myth 7: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an experimental or dangerous treatment.

Reality

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is an established treatment that has been practised for over two decades. Deep Brain Stimulation can be very effective in achieving consistent control of physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease when this is no longer being achieved with tablet and exercise therapy.  

In the correct clinical context, DBS improves

● Tremor 

● Stiffness

● Fluctuations in medication responsiveness

● Involuntary movement (dyskinesia)

● Quality of life

Tip

Most patients find the prospect of DBS daunting, and even those who choose to have surgery often reflect on the possiblility for months or even years.  Fortunately, the window of time when DBS is effective is years for most patients.  DBS can be a very effective ‘work-around’ when tablets and exercise are no longer effective in allowing patients to live the life they seek. You can find more information on Deep Brain Stimulation at sydneyDBS. You may wish to consult with your treating Neurologist to find out if DBS is a good consideration for you.

Myth 8: Parkinson’s is caused by genetics alone.

Reality

While genetics may play a role, most cases of Parkinson’s are not strictly inherited. In fact, only about 10-15% of people with PD have a family history of the disease. Current thinking is that Parkinson’s disease occurs in the context of inherited susceptibility genes, combined with environmental exposures. 

Tip

Our understanding of the genetic factors involved in Parkinson’s disease is evolving all the time.  Genetic counselling is a consideration for people with YOPD, particularly in situations where pregnancy is under consideration.

Myth 9: Parkinson’s patients should avoid exercise to prevent falls.

Reality

One of the biggest misconceptions is that people with Parkinson’s should limit physical activity to avoid injury. In reality, exercise is one of the best ways to improve balance, mobility, mood and overall well-being. Staying active has been proven to improve symptom control of Parkinson’s reduce falls risk.

Tip 

Almost all types of exercise have been scientifically demonstrated to improve control of Parkinson’s symptoms, so you should do whatever exercise best suits you. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist with experience in PD can help develop a safe personalised exercise program to maximise on your symptom control and help to reduce the risk of falling in people living with more advanced PD.

Empowering Your PD Journey with Facts

Misinformation about Parkinson’s can lead to unnecessary fear and delays in seeking care. The truth is, there are many ways to manage PD effectively — from medications and therapies to lifestyle adjustments and support networks.

What You Can Do:

● Stay informed and proactive in your treatment.

● Prioritise regular exercise, sleep, and a healthy diet.

● Take your medications on time and as prescribed. Regular medication intake makes a big difference in symptom management

● Seek care from a movement disorder specialist for the best treatment options.

● Consider connecting with support group, advocacy organisations and other online resources

By understanding the realities of Parkinson’s disease, you can take charge of your health, access the best care available, and continue living a full, happy and meaningful life. You are not alone. With up to date knowledge, support, and care, you can feel emPowereD along your PD journey and manage your Parkinson’s with confidence