When we think of Parkinsonism, a group of neurological conditions that cause tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, often mistaken for Parkinson’s disease. Also known as secondary parkinsonism, it doesn’t always mean the brain is degenerating like in classic Parkinson’s — especially in teens. In adults, it’s often tied to aging and dopamine loss. But in teenagers? It’s usually something else entirely.
Parkinsonism in teens rarely happens on its own. It’s more often a side effect — from medications, toxins, or underlying health issues. Drug-induced parkinsonism, a reversible form caused by certain psychiatric or anti-nausea drugs is one of the top suspects. Antipsychotics like haloperidol or even some anti-nausea pills like metoclopramide can trigger stiffness and shaking in young people. It’s not rare — emergency rooms see it more than you’d think. Then there’s secondary parkinsonism, caused by brain injuries, infections, or metabolic disorders. A head trauma, Lyme disease, or even a vitamin deficiency can mimic the symptoms. And yes, some genetic conditions show up in adolescence, though they’re uncommon.
Teens with this condition don’t always look like older patients. Their tremors might be less rhythmic, their stiffness more uneven. They might complain of fatigue, trouble writing, or walking like they’re stuck in mud. Teachers notice they’re slower to get up from their chairs. Parents see them avoiding sports they used to love. The big mistake? Assuming it’s just laziness or teenage moodiness. It’s not. If these signs show up suddenly — especially after starting a new medication — it’s urgent to get checked. Blood tests, brain scans, and a detailed drug history can point to the real cause.
Unlike Parkinson’s in older adults, many cases in teens can be reversed. Stop the drug? Symptoms fade in weeks. Fix the vitamin B12 level? Movement improves. Treat the infection? Tremors disappear. That’s the hope here. This collection of posts doesn’t focus on Parkinson’s disease itself — it dives into the real-world causes that mimic it in young people. You’ll find real cases, medication risks, and what doctors actually test for when a teen starts moving strangely. No fluff. Just what works, what doesn’t, and what to ask next.
Explore how Parkinsonism affects children and teens, from early signs and diagnosis to treatment options and daily life tips for families.
