No tests can conclusively show that you have Parkinson's disease. Your doctor will base a diagnosis on your symptoms, medical history and the results of a clinical examination.
Your GP will question you and may get you to perform a task or walk around. This will help with the diagnosis.
In the early stages, your GP may find it difficult to say whether you definitely have the condition because symptoms are usually mild.
If your GP suspects Parkinson's disease, you will be referred to a specialist (a neurologist or geriatrician). If your GP thinks you may be in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, you should see a specialist within six weeks. If they think you may be in the later stages of Parkinson’s disease, you should see a specialist within two weeks.
The specialist will likely ask you to perform a number of physical exercises so they can assess whether you have any symptoms affecting movement (motor symptoms).
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is likely if you have at least two of the three following symptoms:
- uncontrollable shaking in a part of your body (tremor) that usually only occurs at rest
- slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
- muscle stiffness (rigidity)
The medication levodopa is often prescribed to help diagnose Parkinson’s or rule out other conditions.
If your symptoms rapidly improve after taking levodopa then it is highly likely you have Parkinson’s disease.
Receiving the diagnosis
Being told you have Parkinson’s disease can be emotionally devastating, and the news can often be difficult to take in. Therefore, at this time, it is important that you have the support of your family and care team who will be able to help you come to terms with the diagnosis.
You may find it useful to contact Parkinson’s UK which is the country’s leading charity for people affected by Parkinson’s disease.
Their contact details are as follows:
Their website provides a range of useful resources as well as details of any support groups in your local area.
