Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the brain's ability to control movement and motor skills. As many as 500,000 Americans have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, but the National Institutes of Health estimates that the actual number is likely much higher, given that many people go undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed.

How are people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease? Elana Clar, M.D., neurologist at Hackensack University Medical Center, provides clarity.

How Parkinson’s Disease Is Diagnosed 

There are no standard diagnostic tests for Parkinson’s. “Parkinson's is a clinical diagnosis based on a neurological exam. It is not identified by any bloodwork or imaging,” Dr. Clar explains. 

When considering a Parkinson’s diagnosis, doctors typically look at:

• Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement
• Cogwheeling rigidity, the medical term for an increase in muscle tone
• Resting tremor, a trembling in the hands or feet while a person is at rest
  
  

While muscle tremors may be the trait most commonly associated with Parkinson’s, Dr. Clar says it doesn’t need to be present for a diagnosis. “The biggest misconception is that you have to have a tremor for the diagnosis of Parkinson's. You do not. You may simply be stiff and slow,” she says.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

The most common and defining symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include: 

• Muscle stiffness
• Difficulty controlling the movements of your limbs
  
  

But apart from movement issues, other symptoms include:

• Constipation
• Changes to speech and swallowing
• Difficulty sleeping
• Depression, anxiety and apathy
• Cognitive decline
• Gait imbalance
  
  

While there is no cure for Parkinson's, treatments and therapies may reduce or help manage the symptoms.

After Parkinson’s Diagnosis

After Parkinson’s is diagnosed, what should patients and their families do next? “Seek out a movement disorder specialist to properly guide the patient and caregivers on next steps,” Dr. Clar says.

Certain medications, as well as physical, speech and occupational therapy, may help. Other forms of therapy can assist with the emotional and behavioral aspects of the disease, and support groups can give comfort and a sense of comradery to the patient’s family.

Whatever the treatment, this is a disease that requires the close care of an expert who can create an appropriate plan of action. “There is a lot of misinformation online,” Dr. Clar says. “Patients should get answers from a neurologist who specializes in Parkinson's, because management recommendations are continually changing.”

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Elana Clar, M.D.
• To make an appointment with a neurologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
  
  

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.