Parkinson symptoms overview for patients

Overview

Parkinson's disease is a brain condition that affects how a person moves. It happens when nerve cells in the brain that make a chemical called dopamine become damaged or die. Dopamine helps control smooth, coordinated movements. Without enough of it, movements can become slow, stiff, or shaky.

Parkinson's is the second most common age-related brain disorder after Alzheimer's disease. It affects more than 1 in 100 people over the age of 60.

Parkinson's can affect people of all races and backgrounds. It is most often diagnosed in people over 60, and men are about one and a half times more likely to develop it than women. In rare cases, it affects younger adults.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Tremor, or shaking, often in a finger, hand, or arm when it is at rest
• Slowness of movement (called bradykinesia), making everyday tasks take longer
• Stiffness or rigidity in the arms, legs, or torso
• Problems with balance and coordination, sometimes leading to falls
• Changes in speech, such as softer or slurred speech
• Reduced ability to smell (loss of smell)
• Small, cramped handwriting
• Trouble sleeping, tiredness, or depression

Symptoms in children

• Parkinson's is extremely rare in children. If it does happen, it is usually linked to a genetic cause and may include stiffness, slowness, balance problems, or unusual movements. Children with these symptoms need evaluation by a specialist.

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms in older adults are similar to those in younger people, but they might be mistaken for normal ageing. Older adults may also have more problems with memory, falls, and frailty, which makes early evaluation important.

Causes

Main causes

• The loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, which helps control movement
• Genetic changes that are inherited, though this is uncommon
• Environmental triggers that may raise the risk in certain people — research is still ongoing

Risk factors

• Getting older, especially over 60
• Being male
• Having a close family member with Parkinson's
• Long-term exposure to certain pesticides, herbicides, or industrial chemicals, which may increase risk

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any new symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, slowness, or difficulty walking, and they are interfering with your day-to-day life
• If your symptoms are getting worse quickly

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have a mild tremor that comes and goes, or if you are worried about Parkinson's for any reason, book a regular appointment to discuss it

Diagnosis

There is no single test for Parkinson's. A specialist, usually a neurologist, will take a detailed history of your symptoms, do a physical exam, and ask about your daily life. They may check how well you walk, balance, write, and move your fingers. They will also ask about other symptoms like sleep, mood, and sense of smell.

Tests that may be done

• No blood test can confirm Parkinson's, but some tests are done to rule out other conditions
• Imaging scans like an MRI or CT scan of the brain
• A dopamine transporter (DaT) scan in some specialist centres, which can show changes in brain dopamine levels

What to expect at your appointment

You may be referred to a movement disorder specialist if needed. The diagnosis can take time, and you might need more than one appointment. It can be helpful to keep a symptom diary, list your questions, and bring someone you trust to appointments.

Treatment

Treatment for Parkinson's is highly personalised. It aims to reduce symptoms, maintain your quality of life, and help you stay as independent as possible. Treatment usually includes a combination of medications, therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Self-care at home

• Find an exercise you enjoy and do it regularly — this can help with movement and mood
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and water
• Get enough rest and try to keep a regular sleep routine
• Look for ways to reduce stress, like mindfulness or relaxation exercises
• Stay connected with friends, family, or support groups

Medical treatments

Various medicines can help improve movement, reduce tremor, and ease stiffness. These medicines work by boosting or mimicking the effect of dopamine in the brain. Your doctor will adjust your treatment over time and talk to you about possible benefits and side effects. You may also be offered physiotherapy to help with movement, occupational therapy to make daily tasks easier, and speech and language therapy for swallowing or communication.

When is surgery considered?

For people whose symptoms are not controlled well with medicines, or who have significant side effects, a treatment called deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be considered. DBS involves placing tiny electrodes in areas of the brain that control movement. The electrodes are connected to a device under the skin that sends electrical pulses. This can help reduce tremor, stiffness, and slowness, but it is not suitable for everyone.

Living with this condition

Living with Parkinson's means learning to adapt. Many people manage very well. Set a steady routine, plan activities for times when you feel best, and make safe adjustments at home — like removing rugs that are easy to trip on or installing grab bars in the bathroom.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active: walk, swim, dance, or do chair exercises if you need to
• Use assistive tools if they help, like non-slip shoes, handrails, or special utensils
• Take your medicines as prescribed and tell your doctor about any side effects
• Keep up hobbies and social activities you enjoy
• Plan ahead for outings so you are not rushed

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet can help you feel better and avoid constipation, which is common in Parkinson's. Drink plenty of fluids and eat foods high in fibre. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do. Activities like walking, stretching, yoga, or strength training can improve balance, flexibility, and quality of life. Always check with your care team before starting something new.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Parkinson's can affect more than movement. Many people experience changes in mood, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability. This can be part of the condition or a reaction to living with it. It is not a sign of weakness. If you feel low or worried, talk to your doctor, nurse, or a mental health professional. There are effective treatments, including talking therapies and medication.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent Parkinson's at this time. Scientists are still studying what causes it and how to slow it down. Eating well, exercising regularly, and staying mentally active are good for your brain and overall health, but they cannot guarantee prevention.

Complications

If left untreated

• Falls and injuries, because of balance problems
• Difficulty swallowing, which can lead to choking or lung infections such as pneumonia
• Progressive disability that makes everyday tasks harder
• Mood changes, including depression and anxiety

Long-term outlook

Parkinson's is a long-term condition, but it is not a death sentence. Most people live many productive years after a diagnosis. With good medical care, exercise, and support, you can manage symptoms, stay active, and continue to enjoy life. Research is also bringing better treatments all the time.

Find support

International organisations

• Parkinson's Foundation ↗
• The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research ↗

Local organisations

• NHS ↗ · United Kingdom
• Parkinson's UK ↗ · United Kingdom

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