Measuring Cortisol Levels in Persons With Parkinson's (PD)

Measuring Cortisol Levels in Persons With Parkinson's (PD)

The objective of this study is to evaluate the cortisol awakening response with persons with Parkinsons Disease (PD), Huntingtons Disease (HD), and controls. These data are desired so experience can be gained with measuring stress levels subjectively and objectively in persons with PD, HD, and controls.

Telephone consent will be obtained.

Participants will collect saliva at twelve time points - four times a day for three days.

Visits will be conducted virtually (over the internet).

The virtual visit is to assess Parkinson's or Huntington's disease status, stress, mood, and quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

Group (3) Inclusion:

• No significant neurological disorder
• PSS score of greater than or equal to 13.

Group (5) Inclusion:

• HD diagnosis or HD gene carrier
• a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score higher than or equal to 13.

Group (6) Inclusion:

• HD diagnosis or HD gene carrier
• PSS score lower than 13

Group (7) Inclusion:

• PD diagnosis
• Prior completion of the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• The use of medications known to effect cortisol levels (estrogen, synthetic glucocorticoids, androgens, phenytoin, spironolactone, prednisone, prednisolone, and hydrocortisone).