Conditions

Parkinson's Disease

A progressive condition that causes slowness, stiffness and tremor.

About this condition

Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition in which brain cells that produce dopamine gradually stop working properly. Dopamine helps to control movement.

Symptoms usually develop slowly. Treatment, exercise and therapy can help people manage symptoms and stay active.

Common symptoms

  • Tremor, often in one hand at rest
  • Slowness of movement
  • Muscle stiffness
  • A shuffling walk or reduced arm swing
  • Balance problems
  • Smaller handwriting, a softer voice or less facial expression
  • Other symptoms such as constipation, poor sleep, low mood or a reduced sense of smell

Having one or more of these does not by itself mean you have a particular condition. A doctor's assessment is needed to find the cause.

How it is assessed

  1. A detailed history and an examination of movement.
  2. A review of medicines that can cause similar symptoms.
  3. Tests in selected cases.

Who may be affected

  • Mostly older adults, although it can begin earlier
  • People with a gradual onset of tremor, slowness or stiffness

Preparing for your appointment

It helps to bring:

  • Previous medical reports, prescriptions and hospital discharge summaries
  • MRI or CT scan films and reports, if you have them
  • A list of all the medicines you take, with their doses
  • A short note of your symptoms: when they started, how often they happen and what makes them better or worse

How the clinic can help

  • Explaining the diagnosis.
  • Medicines to help movement symptoms, where appropriate.
  • Physiotherapy and exercise.
  • Regular review.

Recommendations depend on the clinician's assessment of your individual situation. This website cannot diagnose your condition or guarantee a particular result.

Frequently asked questions

Can Parkinson's disease be cured?

There is currently no cure, but treatment and therapy can help control symptoms for many years.

Does Parkinson's disease only affect movement?

No. It can also affect sleep, mood, memory, bowel function and the sense of smell.

Clinic locations

Please confirm the OPD day, timings and availability of this service when you book.

This page gives general information to help you understand this topic. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

In an emergency

If you or someone with you has sudden weakness or numbness, facial drooping, slurred speech, a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes, a sudden severe headache or loss of consciousness, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Do not wait for an appointment or rely on this website.

Call 112

Book an appointment or contact the clinic

Call or send a WhatsApp message to ask about appointment times at the Patna, Ara and Siwan clinics.