[Parkinson's disease and associated disorders]

Abstract

Besides the core motor features of Parkinson's disease, other disorders such as gastro-intestinal dysfunction, postural hypotension, urinary, genital, sleep problems and pain contribute to the alteration of patient's quality of life. Drooling, swallowing difficulties and constipation are the more frequent digestive problems. Aspirations may be life-threatening. Sexual dysfunction as well as iatrogenic hypersexuality may be deleterious for the couple well-being. Symptomatic postural hypotension is the main manifestation of autonomic failure and needs a specific management. Pain is frequent in Parkinson's disease, particularly due to frozen shoulder or to the peculiar picture of "primary sensory pain symptoms". Sleep disorders are common in Parkinson's disease and are associated with reduced quality of life and increased risk of vehicle accident particularly when excessive daytime somnolence occurs.