How did Parkinson’s disease get its name?
The neurologic disease we now call Parkinson’s disease was first described by the English physician, James Parkinson in a monograph written in 1817. It was not until the end of the 19th century that Jean Charcot (the most famous neurologist in Paris) named the syndrome for Parkinson and the name has stuck ever since.
Are all patients with Parkinson’s disease alike?
Parkinson’s disease is the most common of the so-called movement disorders since its primary manifestations are those of slowness of movement, stiffness or rigidity of the muscles, tremor, and a disturbance of gait and balance. We now recognize that there are several different disorders in which parkinsonian symptoms are prominent. Most cases are felt to be idiopathic (that is, of unknown cause). There are some which develop genetically, some which occur secondary to stroke, some of which occur as a result of exposure to toxic chemicals, and some which occur in the setting of brain degeneration extending beyond those structures which control movement.
How is the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease made?
Most patients with typical Parkinson’s disease notice the onset of symptoms when they are in their 60s. Less commonly the disease may begin either earlier or even later in life. The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease at times can be made easily but at times the symptoms may be so subtle that it may take quite some time before a diagnosis can be made with certainty. Neurologists are the physicians who are most skilled in making the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
The diagnosis is made primarily on clinical grounds. Your neurologist will take a detailed neurological and medical history. After performing a neurological examination, your neurologist may order diagnostic tests which may include an MRI scan and blood work. There are no specific blood tests that make the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease nor are there specific changes on an MRI or CT scan. These studies are often done to rule out other disorders which may mimic Parkinsonism.
What symptoms make a neurologist think about Parkinson’s disease?
The classic symptoms that suggest the diagnosis are a resting tremor (shaking of the arms or legs), slowness of movement (known as bradykinesia), muscular stiffness (known as rigidity), and postural instability (a disturbance of balance and gait). Very often it is family members who notice the symptoms and signs before the patients do. Characteristically, there is a slowing of the activities of daily living, a stooped shuffling gait, a lack of spontaneous facial expression which can mimic depression, difficulty arising from a deep chair, difficulty turning over in bed, and even a weakening of the voice.
Is Parkinson’s disease treatable?
Although we really do not understand what sets Parkinson’s disease in motion, we have learned how to modify the symptoms of the disorder in ways that significantly improve both the quality and length of life. All of the neurologists at Raleigh Neurology Associates have had considerable experience in evaluating and treating patients with Parkinson’s disease. Our nurses and nurse practitioners are familiar with Parkinson’s therapeutics and are of invaluable help to the physicians and the patients.
Our neurologists and staff will work closely with you and your family members to develop a comprehensive therapeutic program aimed at reducing functional impairment, providing relief of symptoms, reducing long term complications of some of the medications, and to the extent possible, slowing down the progress of the disease.
Your neurologist will review with you the various medications available so that you and your physician can come up with a medical regimen that is most suitable for you. Sometimes this process is straightforward and sometimes it is very complicated. The process of choosing the right medication involves balancing effectiveness, side effects, and cost. Your neurologist will take issues of disease severity, age, other medications, and personal preferences into account as you and your doctor work together.
How can I learn more about Parkinson’s disease?
Your neurologist and the nurses at Raleigh Neurology Associates are all willing to help you expand your understanding of Parkinson’s disease. We are glad to provide you and your family members with links to other websites that deal with Parkinsonism. We have reading material in the office we can provide you. We will work closely with your primary physician or health care provider so your Parkinson’s disease is treated appropriately taking into account your other health care needs.
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