COMPLICATIONS

People with Parkinson's disease may have other complications that may be treatable. These may include:

• Trouble thinking clearly. Parkinson's disease can affect people's memory, language and reasoning skills. The disease also can lead to dementia or other conditions that affect thinking. These complications usually happen later in Parkinson's disease, and medicines usually have only a modest benefit in managing these symptoms.
• Emotional changes and depression. Some people may feel irritable and concerned early in the course of Parkinson's disease. They also may have depression and anxiety. Medicines and other treatment can help with these changes.
• Trouble swallowing and chewing. Late-stage Parkinson's disease affects the muscles in the mouth. This causes trouble swallowing and chewing, which can lead to not getting enough nutrients in your diet. If food or saliva collects in the mouth, it can cause choking or drooling.
• Sleep problems and sleep disorders. You may wake up often during the night, have nightmares and fall asleep during the day.
  Another symptom may be rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. This involves acting out your dreams. Medicines and other therapies may help your sleep get better.

Other symptoms that can occur include:

• Bladder problems. You may have problems such as urgency.
• Constipation. You may have a hard time passing stool. You may pass stool fewer than three times a week.
• Blood pressure changes. You may feel dizzy or lightheaded or even faint when you stand up due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. This also is called orthostatic hypotension.
• Loss of smell. You may fully or partially lose your sense of smell.
• Tiredness. You may feel very tired and lack energy, especially late in the day.
• Pain. You may have pain or cramps in your muscles and joints.
• Sexual symptoms. You may have a decrease in sexual desire or performance.