A diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease can be very worrying. It is vital you have the support of your healthcare team. Finding a neurologist to help with Parkinson’s Disease ensures you have the expert help you need. Neurologists specialise in nervous system and brain conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease.
Dr Dominic Paviour is a highly experience consultant neurologist. He supports and treats many patients with Parkinson’s Disease, at different stages of the condition.
Let’s discuss the condition in a little more depth.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s Disease is the most common neurodegenerative cause of parkinsonism, representing approximately 80% of cases. It usually begins between the ages of 40 and 70 years, but it can happen sooner. Many people first realise they have the condition in the 70s. .
The cause of Parkinson’s Disease is not known but research shows it can be more common among relatives, and those with close family history of the condition at 2-3 times more likely to develop the disease themselves.
Parkinson’s Disease results in a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain. These lost cells lead to inhibition of dopamine production and dopamine is vital for regulating our bodies’ movement. This reduction in dopamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Common Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
People usually think of tremors and not much else when they think of Parkinson’s Disease. However, there is much more to the condition than this. Tremors, or involuntary shaking in different parts of the body, are often accompanied by slow movement and inflexibility and stiffness in the muscles.
Parkinson’s Disease can also effect your balance, memory and can lead to psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression and insomnia. Each patient’s experience is different but any of these symptoms should lead to a visit to the GP and perhaps a neurology referral. Understanding the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease is important so you recognise them.
Finding a neurologist to help with Parkinson’s Disease
Dr Dominic Paviour is a highly experienced consultant neurologist. He can help patients at any stage of Parkinson’s, as well as those who haven’t yet received a diagnosis. Initial appointments involve a full examination as well as discussion of your medical history. If you already have diagnosis you can also discuss your current treatment plan and Dr Paviour can talk through any alternative treatments or options available to you.
Simply get in touch to book your first consultation.