Living with worries about Parkinson’s Disease can be distressing, whether it’s a personal worry or for someone dear to you. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if you suspect Parkinson’s, as delayed medical consultation can delay the diagnostic process. A Parkinson’s Disease neurologist will be able to help you manage your symptoms and also get a diagnosis if you do not yet have one.
Moreover, symptoms may be indicative of other health issues that require timely treatment. An early diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease is pivotal for initiating appropriate treatment promptly and mitigating the disease’s impact.
Diagnosing Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s UK research highlights the degenerative nature of the disease, progressing slowly with symptoms intensifying over time. Symptoms may not be apparent clearly for several years, which makes it even more important to identify signs associated with Parkinsonism.
Parkinsonism encompasses various symptoms linked to Parkinson’s Disease but may also manifest in other conditions. The majority of patients exhibiting any form of Parkinsonism typically receive a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. This is the most prevalent form of the condition. Less common forms include vascular Parkinson’s and progressive supranuclear palsy.
Investigating Symptoms
A consultation with a specialised neurologist is essential for a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The neurologist will conduct a thorough examination, focusing on the nervous system, and gather a detailed medical history. Providing information about symptom progression or changes is crucial, and some individuals maintain symptom diaries to aid doctors in identifying patterns of degeneration.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease vary among individuals. The most common ones include slowed movement, difficulty turning in bed, tremors, fatigue, and smaller handwriting. Additionally, early signs encompass unusual depression, anxiety, disturbed sleep patterns, loss of sense of smell, constipation, and unusual tiredness. Recognizing these early symptoms can be challenging as they may indicate various conditions. Nevertheless, unexpected occurrences of any of these symptoms warrant a visit to the doctor.
Neurologists often conduct specific tests to diagnose Parkinson’s Disease. Your Parkinson’s Disease neurologist may assess writing or drawing to check size, examine walking patterns for variations in arm swing, stride length, or speed, and evaluate speech volume and tone. These tests contribute to a comprehensive diagnosis, and in some cases, patients may undergo trials of medication and treatment to aid in the diagnostic process.
Dr Paviour: Parkinson’s Disease Neurologist
Dr Paviour specialises in neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s. His patient-centred approach focuses on finding personalised treatment plans rather than merely addressing the condition. Whether for an initial diagnosis or developing a tailored treatment plan, Dr. Paviour offers private neurology appointments. Those seeking assistance can book an appointment by contacting his office today.
