Welcome

When Parkinson’s disease is seen in individuals under the age of 40, it is called “young-onset” or “early-onset” Parkinson’s disease.”
In rare instances, Parkinson’s-like symptoms can appear in children and teenagers. This form of the disorder, called “juvenile Parkinsonism,” is viewed as a distinct disorder, which often is genetically determined. Juvenile Parkinsonism usually has a different course from typical later-life Parkinson’s disease.
Although Parkinson’s is more common in older people, it is estimated that 1 in 20 of those diagnosed are under 40.

As is the case of older-onset Parkinson’s disease, the speed and severity of the progression of young-onset Parkinson’s disease can vary greatly among individuals. Although the neuropathology and most clinical symptoms are the same at whatever age Parkinson’s disease develops, the psychological, social, and medical management implications are very different for people with young-onset Parkinson’s.

Younger people with Parkinson’s can face particular challenges, such as Ensuring that there is support for the whole family, including children and teenagers Getting help and information about work Concerns about money

Children
It is difficult to decide whether or not to tell your children, and how much you tell them. You know your child best and only you can decide if, when and how much information you tell them, some useful points to remember are It is usually best not to hide the condition from your children, as they may worry more about what they don’t know.
Keep the explanation simple and appropriate for the age of your child. Try to ensure that your children have some control over how much and when they receive information. Try to be realistic with them. Reassure children that it is unlikely that they will develop Parkinson’s

Workplace:
It is entirely up to you whether you inform your employer, although there are certain jobs where for insurance reasons you should tell your employer. Next to telling your children this could be the hardest thing you do, I personally informed my employer and my colleagues, I wanted it all out in the open, no whispering behind my back, no strange looks or questions. I may have been lucky as everyone was very supportive, but as I say this is your decision.

Comparisons Between Young-Onset and Typical Parkinson’s Disease
Thirty to 50% of young-onset cases begin with dystonia, an uncontrollable stiffening or “drawing-up” of a muscle group or limb. Foot or leg dystonia is particularly common in young-onset Parkinson’s. In contrast to dystonia, tremor appears to be slightly less common in the younger patient compared to the older patients as an initial symptom. In one study of a large family with young-onset Parkinson’s, tremor occurred in only 8 of 41 patients with Parkinson’s. However, this family is not necessarily representative of all young-set patients.Tremor, nonetheless, can be one of the most troublesome symptoms.

Depression appears to be quite common in patients with Parkinson’s. It may even occur prior to the on-set of the usual symptoms of tremor, rigidity and slowed movements. It has been suggested that young-onset patients have depression more frequently and earlier in the course of the illness than to older patients; however, this has not been well established.

There is a wealth of information on the internet about this disease, use the links on this site to learn as much as you can or use a search engine. You are young and have Parkinson’s Disease. Now is the time to realize that you and only you have some control over how this disease affects you. Being told you have a progressive disease that won’t get better shakes the very foundation of all one’s hopes, dreams and beliefs.The basis of good health is a positive attitude. In even the most out-of-control situations, you do have control over your attitude.

Get informed and fight back!