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Date of Award
Spring 2023
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Community & Global Public Health; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Sophie Farley, MMS, PA-C
Abstract
The non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) are extremely prevalent for the majority of individuals with PD. Nearly 90% of these individuals experience GI dysfunction and 90% harbor significant olfactory dysfunction. Both GI and olfactory dysfunction are often seen years before the onset of motor symptoms, during the prodromal phase, and continue to worsen throughout the disease course, yet are often under-treated. This article emphasizes how clinicians can better serve patients with PD by recognizing these early symptoms, potentially before motor symptoms manifest, and treating them appropriately.
Recommended Citation
Rojas, Victoria, "Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: Early Diagnosis and Adequate Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Olfactory Dysfunction" (2023). Capstone Showcase. 33.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2023/pa/33
Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: Early Diagnosis and Adequate Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Olfactory Dysfunction
The non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) are extremely prevalent for the majority of individuals with PD. Nearly 90% of these individuals experience GI dysfunction and 90% harbor significant olfactory dysfunction. Both GI and olfactory dysfunction are often seen years before the onset of motor symptoms, during the prodromal phase, and continue to worsen throughout the disease course, yet are often under-treated. This article emphasizes how clinicians can better serve patients with PD by recognizing these early symptoms, potentially before motor symptoms manifest, and treating them appropriately.