Parkinson symptoms risks and benefits for patients

Overview

Parkinson's disease is a long-term brain condition that affects the way your body moves. It happens when certain brain cells slowly stop working properly. These cells normally produce a chemical called dopamine, which helps control movement. As these cells are lost, your brain cannot coordinate movement as well as it used to.

Parkinson's is the second most common condition of its kind (after Alzheimer's disease). It affects around 1 in 500 people in the UK.

Parkinson's is most often diagnosed after age 60, but it can also affect younger adults in their 30s or 40s. Men are slightly more likely to develop Parkinson's than women. Having a close family member with Parkinson's slightly raises your risk, but most people have no family history.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Tremor (shaking) in a hand, arm, or leg, especially when at rest
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia) – you may find everyday tasks take longer or feel harder
• Stiffness in the arms, legs, or neck – muscles may feel tight or ache
• Balance and posture problems – you may feel unsteady or lean forward more
• Smaller handwriting than usual
• Reduced facial expression (often called 'masked face')
• Soft or husky voice
• Problems with sleep, constipation, depression, or anxiety

Symptoms in children

• Parkinson's is extremely rare in children. When it happens, it is usually due to a specific genetic change.
• Symptoms may include tremors, muscle stiffness, slow movement, and sometimes learning or behavioural difficulties.
• Any child with movement concerns should be seen by a specialist children's doctor (paediatric neurologist).

Symptoms in older adults

• Balance and walking problems may be more noticeable and can lead to falls.
• Memory and thinking changes are more common, though many people do not experience them.
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing may develop, which can increase the risk of choking or chest infections.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of Parkinson's is not fully understood.
• It involves the gradual loss of brain cells that produce dopamine – a chemical messenger that helps control movement.
• A combination of genetic changes and environmental factors likely plays a role.

Risk factors

• Age – risk increases with age, especially after 60.
• Family history – having a close relative with Parkinson's raises the risk slightly.
• Genetic changes – certain gene mutations are linked to a higher chance of developing Parkinson's.
• Exposure to certain pesticides or chemicals – research suggests a possible link.
• Repeated head injuries – a history of head trauma may increase the risk.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a sudden loss of balance, repeated falls, or a major change in your mobility.
• If you have hallucinations, severe confusion, or a high fever with muscle stiffness.
• If you have difficulty swallowing or are unable to take your Parkinson's medication.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you notice persistent shaking, stiffness, slowness, or balance problems that are not going away.
• If you or your family see changes in your posture, speech, or handwriting.
• If you feel low in mood, anxious, or sleep poorly – these are also symptoms that can be treated.

Diagnosis

There is no single test for Parkinson's. A doctor (often a neurologist – a brain and nervous system specialist) will ask about your symptoms, examine your movements, and review your medical history. They may also see how you respond to a trial of Parkinson's medication.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms
• A brain scan (such as an MRI) – this is usually normal in Parkinson's but can exclude other problems
• A DaTscan – a special imaging test that looks at dopamine levels in the brain, sometimes used to help support the diagnosis

What to expect at your appointment

If your doctor suspects Parkinson's, they may refer you to a specialist. You will likely be monitored over time, and treatment is often started to see if your symptoms improve. The diagnosis can feel uncertain at first, but your care team will explain everything and answer your questions.

Treatment

Treatment for Parkinson's focuses on controlling symptoms and helping you stay independent. There is no cure, but many people live well with the condition for years. Your care team may include doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists.

Self-care at home

• Keep up with physical activity – even gentle walking or stretching can help.
• Use adaptive tools like easy-grip utensils, rails, or a walking aid if you need them.
• Plan tasks in advance and break them into smaller steps to avoid frustration.
• Talk to family and friends about your condition – you don't have to manage alone.
• Rest when tired, and try to keep a regular sleep routine.

Medical treatments

Medications that increase the brain's dopamine supply or mimic its effects are the main treatment. They can improve movement, stiffness, and tremor. Some medicines are taken by mouth, and others are available as patches or gels. Your doctor will start with a low dose and adjust it over time. You may also receive medicines for specific symptoms like sleep problems, urinary issues, or anxiety. It is important to take medicines at the times your doctor prescribes, as their effect can wear off before the next dose.

When is surgery considered?

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical option for some people whose symptoms are not well controlled with medicines or who have significant side effects. It involves placing small electrodes in the brain, connected by wires to a device under the skin in the chest, which sends gentle electrical pulses to help control movement. Not everyone is suitable, and it requires a specialist assessment.

Living with this condition

Living with Parkinson's means adapting your daily routine. Movement may slow down, but pacing yourself helps. Use tools like button hooks, non-slip mats in the bath, and phones with voice control if needed. Keep a diary of your symptoms – it helps you and your doctor see what is working.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay socially connected – isolation can make symptoms feel worse.
• Keep a positive but realistic outlook – focus on what you can still do.
• Get support from a Parkinson's nurse or support group – they understand what you are going through.
• Set small goals each day and celebrate small wins.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet is important. Eat plenty of fibre (fruit, vegetables, whole grains) to prevent constipation, and stay hydrated. If medicines make you nauseous, eating small, frequent meals may help. Regular exercise – like walking, swimming, tai chi, or yoga – can improve balance, flexibility, and mood. A physiotherapist can design a safe plan for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Depression and anxiety are common in Parkinson's, partly due to changes in brain chemistry. These are treatable – talk to your doctor about counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or medication. Do not feel ashamed. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Prevention

There is currently no proven way to prevent Parkinson's. Research is ongoing, but a healthy lifestyle – including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals – may help lower your risk. Protecting your head from injury is also sensible.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for Parkinson's disease.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for Parkinson's in people without symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated Parkinson's can lead to more frequent falls and fractures.
• Swallowing problems may develop, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia (lung infection from food or liquid entering the airway).
• Urinary issues and constipation can become more severe.
• Daily activities may become harder, which can increase dependence on others.

Long-term outlook

Parkinson's is a lifelong condition, but it is not a death sentence. Many people live for 15 to 20 years or more after a diagnosis, often with good symptom control for many years. Treatment can greatly improve quality of life, and new research continues to find better ways to manage the condition. With support, self-care, and the right treatments, many people continue to live fulfilling lives.

Find support

International organisations

• Parkinson's Foundation ↗
• European Parkinson's Disease Association (EPDA) ↗

Local organisations

• Parkinson's UK ↗ · United Kingdom

Helplines

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