Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease at Sussex Premier Health

Because the disease develops slowly, the changes in a person’s body usually start small. You might not even notice them at first. The early signs of Parkinson’s often begin on just one side of the body before eventually moving to both sides.

Every patient experiences the condition differently, but there are several common Parkinson’s disease symptoms to watch for, such as:

• Tremors – This is a gentle shaking that usually starts in a hand or fingers. You might notice your hand shaking when it’s resting in your lap.
• Slowed Movement – Daily tasks may take much longer to complete. Your steps might become shorter when you walk, or you might find it hard to get out of a chair.
• Stiff Muscles – Muscle stiffness can happen in any part of the body. This tightness can be painful and limit your range of motion.
• Balance Problems – Your posture may become stooped or bent over. You might also feel unsteady on your feet, which can increase the risk of falling.
• Speech Changes – You might speak more softly, quickly, or hesitate before talking. Your voice may also lose its normal highs and lows.
• Writing Changes – Writing might become difficult, and your letters may look much smaller than they used to.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, your first step should be to see your GP or a Specialist. While there’s no single blood test or brain scan that can definitively diagnose Parkinson’s disease, we’ll carefully evaluate your health.

Our team will start by asking about your medical history and your family’s health background. Next, we’ll perform a physical and neurological exam. During these exams, we’ll ask you to walk, move your arms, and perform simple tasks to check your balance and coordination.

Sometimes, we may recommend trying a specific medication. If your symptoms improve significantly after taking the medicine, it strongly suggests that Parkinson’s disease is the correct diagnosis.

While there’s currently no cure for the condition, there are many effective Parkinson’s treatment options available. The primary goal of treatment is to control the symptoms and improve your quality of life. Your care plan will depend on your age, symptoms, and overall health. Common treatments include:

• Medication – Prescription drugs are the most common treatment. These medicines help increase or replace the dopamine in your brain. This can greatly improve your walking, movement, and tremors.
• Physical Therapy – A physiotherapist can teach you exercises to improve your strength, balance, and flexibility.
• Speech Therapy – If you have trouble speaking or swallowing, a speech therapist can help you strengthen the muscles in your face and throat. This is not a service offered at Sussex Premier Health, however the team can onward refer.
• Occupational Therapy – This type of therapy helps you find easier ways to do daily activities, like getting dressed or eating. This is not a service offered at Sussex Premier Health, however the team can onward refer.
• Lifestyle Changes – Eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise can make a big difference in how you feel each day. This is not a service offered at Sussex Premier Health, however the team can onward refer.

Living with a progressive condition requires a supportive and experienced healthcare team. Sussex Premier Health puts our patients at the centre of everything we do. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and build a care plan that fits your life. We offer access to skilled consultants, modern facilities, and compassionate nursing staff to help you stay independent and comfortable for as long as possible.

Contact Us for Parkinson’s Diagnosis and Therapy in Sussex

Parkinson’s disease care and early intervention can significantly improve your daily life. If you need help managing your condition, Sussex Premier Health is the team to call. Contact our Team at Sussex Premier Health in Sussex, on 01424 757455 or complete our online enquiry form.