Parkinson's Disease: Beyond the Tremor
Movement, sleep, mood and digestion are all affected.
Dr. Laurent Vidal
Neurologist
Resting tremor, bradykinesia (slowness), rigidity, and postural instability appear gradually, often asymmetric at onset.
Non-motor symptoms
REM sleep behavior disorder, loss of smell, constipation and depression can precede motor signs by years and are now considered prodromal features.
Treatment
- Levodopa remains the gold standard for motor symptoms
- Dopamine agonists and MAO-B inhibitors complement therapy
- Deep brain stimulation helps selected patients with motor fluctuations
Living well
Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and structured exercise (tango, boxing programs) measurably improve mobility and quality of life.
Parkinson's progresses slowly. Multidisciplinary care matters as much as medication.
Also read
Neurology
Migraine: Understanding and Managing Attacks
Migraines affect about 12% of adults. Identifying triggers and using the right treatment shortens crises.
Neurology
Epilepsy: Living With the Disorder
About 1% of the population has epilepsy. Two thirds achieve seizure freedom with appropriate medication.
Neurology
Alzheimer's Disease: Recognising Early Signs
Early detection enables better planning and access to therapies that may slow decline.