Tests and Diagnosis for Parkinson's Disease

  • Parkinson Disease
    Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder caused by malfunction and death of nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. Because of the death of nerve cells, people with Parkinson’s don’t have enough of the chemical Dopamine. This causes their movements to slow down. Symptoms get worse over time. An estimated 7 to 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s Disease. These numbers are projected to escalate sharply as more people live longer.   
Submitted by PatientsEngage on 27 October 2015

Diagnosing Parkinson’s

There is no specific test to identify Parkinson’s and it is difficult to diagnose especially in the early stages. The doctor will take note of your medical and neurological history and ask you to perform certain movements and tasks, which is part of the neurological exam. If you have had two of the four main symptoms for a while, the doctor may lean towards a diagnosis of Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s disease must be differentiated from Lewy body dementia as there is common movement related symptoms. But Lewy body dementia is associated with fluctuations or changes in concentration and awareness and recurrent visual hallucinations or delusions. 

To read on how to deal with diagnosis of Parkinson's: http://www.patientsengage.com/conditions/early-stage-parkinsons-dealing-diagnosis 

 

Community
Parkinsons Disease and Movement Disorder PDMDS
Condition
Parkinson Disease
Changed
Sat, 11/28/2015 - 09:48

Stories

  • Early Stage Parkinson’s - Dealing with the Diagnosis
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  • 13 Myths about Parkinson’s
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  • Dyskinesia and Parkinson’s
    Dyskinesia is a term that is used to describe excessive movement which is beyond one’s control.   Scientists believe that the areas in the brain which are responsible for producing movement become over – stimulated. This leads to excessive and unwanted movement. However, remember that dyskinetic movements are not tremors. Tremor is a symptom of Parkinson’s, whereas dyskinesia is more often thought to be a side effect of Levodopa.  People experience different kinds of…
  • Young Onset Parkinson's
    What is Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease Although Parkinson’s is mainly a condition that affects the elderly, it is sometimes seen in people who are much younger as well. Young onset Parkinson’s is seen in people who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s before the age of 50 years.  Common Symptoms  Most of the symptoms for Parkinson’s are generally the same no matter at what age it is diagnosed and the rate of progression varies from individual to individual. However, young onset Parkinson’s…
  • Prevention of Parkinson's Disease
    Since the cause of Parkinson's Disease is not known, it is not clear how to prevent it.  But make sure you exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet with more fruits and vegetables.   
  • Caregiving Tips for Parkinson's Disease
    Caregiving is a challenging job. Depending on the severity of the condition, you have to be prepared to do the following: Accompany the person with Parkinson’s disease for their medical appointments Install safety features around the house Get additional help if you are not around to monitor and assist the patient Additionally, remember that a good relationship and communication with the patient keeps them and you happier and healthier. Look after your own health and mental wellbeing.…
  • Management of Parkinson's Disease
    Living with Parkinson’s disease Everyday activities can be a challenge. You can still do things but you may have to tackle it in a different way. Here are some ideas: Plan your daily activities ahead of time Do not do many things in one day Space your work throughout the day Simplify your tasks Plan periods of rest everyday If you become tired during an activity, stop and rest Avoid extreme physical activities Do not plan activities immediately after a meal. Rest after a meal Get dressed…
  • Stages of Parkinson's Disease
    Can Parkinson’s disease be fatal? Parkinson’s disease is not considered fatal. Patients cannot perform daily movement tasks unaided due to gradual worsening of symptoms, thus there is decrease in quality of life. They can however suffer complications like dysphagia.   Find out how to deal with early stages of Parkinsons: http://www.patientsengage.com/conditions/early-stage-parkinsons-dealing-diagnosis
  • Parkinson's Disease Treatment
    Currently there are no treatment options available for complete cure of Parkinson’s, but supportive, medical and surgical options are available to manage the symptoms and maintain quality of life. Supportive Therapy: Depending on your condition, physical activities like walking, swimming, dance, yoga, physiotherapy play an important role in improving the quality of life. These can be done under a trained therapist. Medical Therapy: Most commonly used medication is levodopa, and Sinemet (a…
  • Tests and Diagnosis for Parkinson's Disease
    Diagnosing Parkinson’s There is no specific test to identify Parkinson’s and it is difficult to diagnose especially in the early stages. The doctor will take note of your medical and neurological history and ask you to perform certain movements and tasks, which is part of the neurological exam. If you have had two of the four main symptoms for a while, the doctor may lean towards a diagnosis of Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease must be differentiated from Lewy body dementia as there is common…