Diagnosis of Parkinson’s in its early stages is sometimes difficult because its symptoms may mimic changes seen with advancing age like slowness, loss of smell, weakness, depression, etc. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s is based on the clinical examination by a neurologist, symptoms reported by the individual and their past medical history.

At times, additional tests like Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computerised Tomography (CT) may be required to rule out other conditions which could cause similar symptoms. There are no standard imaging or pathology tests to diagnose Parkinson’s as yet, however, a clinical diagnosis is usually accurate. In some cases, an accurate diagnosis of the condition may take time. A favourable response to Levodopa (a drug for Parkinson’s) is also considered supportive of the diagnosis.

A neurologist may sometimes ask you to take a DaT Scan when they are unsure of your diagnosis. DaT Scan (Dopamine Transporter scan) is an FDA- approved imaging technique since 2011, which does not diagnose Parkinson’s, but tells the clinician if there is a problem with the dopamine transporter in the brain. DaT scan can be used to differentiate Parkinson’s from Essential Tremor. Research is ongoing worldwide to find better diagnostic methods for an early detection of Parkinson’s like a biomarker for Parkinson’s. Right now, clinical examination plays a crucial role for the diagnosis of Parkinson’s.

A diagnosis of Parkinson’s is often life-changing and can be emotionally difficult to accept. With the help and support from your family, a healthcare team, and the support centre team at the PDMDS, dealing with your diagnosis can be made easier and you can learn to accept and manage Parkinson’s in a better way!

A combination of different medications is often required to provide the most effective symptom management. Levodopa, Dopamine agonists, Amantadine, Anticholinergics, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAO-B inhibitors), Catechol-O-Methyl Transferase (COMT inhibitors) are the commonly used drugs in the treatment of Parkinson’s.

PwPs are advised to do regular follow ups with their neurologist to review and adjust the medicine dose, frequency and timing depending on their current state of symptoms, side effects, if any, and response to the current drug treatment.

In DBS, a neurosurgeon implants in the brain, a medical device called a neuro-stimulator, similar to a cardiac pacemaker, to deliver electrical stimulation to precisely targeted areas on each side of the brain. Stimulation of these areas appears to block the signals that cause the disabling motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. As a result, many PwPs achieve greater control over their body movements post DBS.

Note: DBS can relieve only some specific symptoms and it does not eliminate the use of drugs/medication nor does it result in the reversal of the Parkinson’s symptoms. DBS is NOT a cure for Parkinson’s.

The neurologist will consider all factors such as age and other medical conditions of the PwP before determining if he/ she is a good candidate, and recommends the surgery accordingly. Like with any other surgery, it is best to discuss the risk factors with your neurologist before exploring DBS as a potential surgical option.

These therapies provide exercises and strategies to deal with specific symptoms and helps improve the quality of life of PwPs.

PwPs and their caregivers need to take an active part in the management of Parkinson’s along with the healthcare team. It is also important that people living with Parkinson’s keep themselves active- physically, mentally and socially. The PDMDS support group centre sessions are designed to provide these various rehabilitation therapies for PwPs and their caregivers. Joining a Parkinson’s support group center in your community will provide you with support and motivation to manage your condition better.

Intensive research into finding a cure for Parkinson’s continues worldwide and there is a hope that there will be a cure for Parkinson’s in the near future.