Most respond favorably to medication or physical therapy. Depression Depression is common. It may develop early, sometimes even before other symptoms. In some cases it may be exacerbated by drugs used to treat other Parkinson's symptoms. Usually it can be ameliorated by the use of prescription antidepressant medications.
Some patients undergo significant emotional changes.
They may become irritable, pessimistic, fearful or insecure, possibly as a reaction to their new, admittedly stressful condition. They may shun travel, friends or social situations. Some become highly dependent. Usually the patient's ability to reason remains intact. In the disease's latter stages, the muscles that facilitate swallowing and chewing can be affected.