Can Parkinson's Kill You?

Parkinson's Disease itself does not directly kill people. New treatments help people live long lives. If someone is more elderly and weak and they also have Parkinson's Disease, they may develop other illnesses. It is these other illnesses like pneumoniathat could lead to their death.

What do Parkinson's patients usually die from?

Two major causes of death for those with PD are falls and pneumonia. People with PD are at higher risk of falling, and serious falls that require surgery carry the risk of infection, adverse events with medication and anesthesia, heart failure, and blood clots from immobility.

How long can a person live with Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's Disease Is a Progressive Disorder

According to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, patients usually begin developing Parkinson's symptoms around age 60. Many people with PD live between 10 and 20 years after being diagnosed.