Singer-songwriter Carly Simon has revealed she is battling Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. Simon, 83, shared in a statement that it took time to understand and adjust to the diagnosis before deciding how much to disclose publicly. She also underwent treatment for basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, on her face following the Parkinson's diagnosis.
Simon first experienced mobility issues, including arthritis in one hip and both knees, leading to joint replacement surgeries. Despite these procedures, her mobility continued to decline. An extensive evaluation at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota led to her Parkinson's diagnosis.
Parkinson's disease, which affects over 10 million people globally according to the Parkinson's Foundation, is a long-term brain disorder that worsens over time. Symptoms typically begin after age 60, though early-onset cases can occur before 50. The most common form is idiopathic, where the cause is unknown, while a rarer familial form is linked to inherited gene changes.
The leading theory suggests that certain brain cells responsible for producing dopamine gradually cease functioning or die. Dopamine, often referred to as the brain's "feel-good" chemical, is crucial for movement, coordination, mood, and other functions. A decline in dopamine levels impairs the brain's ability to control movement, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement.
Risk factors for developing Parkinson's include being over 60, being male, having a family history of the disease, and long-term exposure to metals like manganese or pesticides. Early signs often manifest on one side of the body and can include tremors in limbs, muscle stiffness, poor balance, cramped handwriting, and reduced facial expression. As the disease progresses, symptoms usually spread to both sides of the body.
Beyond motor symptoms, individuals may experience non-movement related issues such as depression, anxiety, loss of smell, sleep disturbances, mood changes, constipation, hallucinations, and sexual dysfunction. Simon noted the variability of her own symptoms, stating, "Some days I’m so tired I can’t get the day moving at all. On others, it gives me a little more room to move, think, work, and feel like myself." Potential complications include cognitive decline, autonomic nervous system problems, mental health challenges, falls, injuries, and loss of independence.
While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, treatments focus on managing symptoms. Medications aim to replace or increase dopamine activity, with options including carbidopa-levodopa, dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, amantadine, and anticholinergic drugs. For those whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by oral medications, infusion therapies can provide a continuous supply. Therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy are also vital for improving walking, balance, speech, swallowing, and the ability to perform daily activities, thereby helping patients maintain independence.
Lifestyle choices, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a strong support system, can also contribute to symptom management. The outlook for Parkinson's disease varies, with the disease gradually worsening over time. Although Parkinson's itself is not considered fatal, its complications can lead to a reduced life expectancy.