Parkinson's runs in our family

Hello @dedarts and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. The genetic link you have shared to the 7 people in your family all having Parkinson's seems noteworthy. I can see why you are curious and wanting to connect with others who may be able to shed some light on what they have seen in their own families.

Members like @hopeful33250 @sherrieshe @oldsalt1947 @ggopher @farmerleebs @pspt @edschickel @johnjames and more may be able to share with you any genetic link they might have in their own families, if any.

While we wait for others to join the conversation, I did want to share these resources with you as well.

- FAQs: Genetics & Parkinson's | Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/causes/genetics/faqs

- Is Parkinson's Hereditary? The Role of Genetics in Parkinson's: https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons/is-parkinsons-hereditary

Can I ask what concerns you or has you most interested about this trend in your family?

The next generation is coming to the age if concern and maybe there is a way to catch it earlier

Hello @dedarts,

As a Parkinson's patient myself, I've known of many people with PD who do not know anyone else in the family with this disorder. However, having seven people in your family is certainly something that would cause concern. If you read the first link that Amanda, @amandajro, listed you will see that environmental factors can also be important. The most common environmental factor seems to be growing up on a farm.

Have any of your family members grown up or lived on a farm?

I believe I’m a member already? Is this something new- I would like to be a part of. Thanks John

Hello @johnjames
Nice to hear from you again. Yes, please join in this discussion! Do you have other family members who have Parkinson's?

My mother and brother both suffered for years with pd for years before death….became totally unable to move on their own and required care 24/7. Now, I’m showing symptoms and am awaiting firm diagnosis! Not a fun place to be!

Hello @psvantx,

I'm sorry to hear that you are beginning to notice symptoms of PD. It does sound like there is a strong family history. Did you or your mother and brother ever live on a farm? There seems to be some correlation between farm living and acquiring PD.

If you are comfortable sharing more, what type of symptoms are you now experiencing? Do you currently have an appointment with a neurologist who is a movement disorder specialist?

Yes, we grew up on a farm!

That is interesting, @psvantx. What symptoms are the most troubling for you now? Are your gait and balance affected? What about speech, swallowing, and handwriting?

Yes, gait and balance…..about to do pt for that!