Parkinson's Disease

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance and coordination. It is linked to the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Dopamine helps regulate smooth, controlled movement, so reduced dopamine can lead to both motor and non-motor symptoms that may worsen over time.

Parkinson’s is not curable, but symptoms can often be managed effectively with the right combination of medication, advanced therapies and multidisciplinary support

Common Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Motor Symptoms

Motor symptoms are movement-related and commonly include:

Tremor: Shaking that typically occurs at rest, often starting in a hand or fingers.
Slowness of Movement (Bradykinesia): Tasks may take longer to perform, and steps may become shorter or more hesitant.
Muscle Stiffness (Rigidity): Stiffness in the limbs or trunk that can limit the range of motion and cause pain.
Balance and Gait Difficulties: Increased risk of falls and changes in walking patterns (such as shuffling).

Non-motor Symptoms

Parkinson’s can also affect other bodily functions and mental health, including:

Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or vivid dreaming.
Mood Changes: Such as depression, anxiety, or a loss of motivation (apathy).
Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, attention, or executive function.
Autonomic Symptoms: Issues such as constipation, bladder control, or fluctuations in blood pressure.

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

At SJMC, treatment plans are personalised based on the patient’s specific symptom pattern, lifestyle requirements, and the progression of the condition.

1) Medical Therapy

The primary goal of medication is to replenish or mimic the effects of dopamine. Common strategies include:

Dopaminergic Medications: Such as levodopa, which remains the most effective treatment for managing motor symptoms.
Symptom-Focused Strategies: Medications to address specific issues like tremors or non-motor symptoms.

These treatments are often effective in early to moderate stages. Over time, some patients may develop motor fluctuations or dyskinesia with long-term medication use.

2) Advanced Therapies

When medication alone is no longer sufficient to provide stable symptom control, advanced options may be considered:

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A specialised surgical procedure used to regulate abnormal brain signals and improve motor function. You can learn more about our dedicated Deep Brain Stimulation Procedure here
Infusion Therapies: Advanced drug delivery systems for selected cases.
Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation: Intensive therapy to maintain physical function and independence.

Care and Support

Parkinson’s disease often benefits from a team-based approach that may include medication optimisation, rehabilitation input and longer-term follow-up. At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), Parkinson’s care is supported by multidisciplinary collaboration, with DBS considered as part of advanced therapy planning for suitable patients.

FAQs About Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's is linked to progressive loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, which disrupts movement control and can lead to motor and non-motor symptoms.

Most cases are not inherited, but genetics can contribute in a smaller proportion of people, often alongside environmental and age-related factors.

Diagnosis is usually clinical, based on neurological assessment and symptom pattern. Imaging tests may be used to support evaluation or rule out other conditions

Dopaminergic medication such as levodopa is commonly used, with treatment tailored to symptom severity and functional needs.

Motor fluctuations are “on/off” changes in symptom control, while dyskinesia refers to involuntary movements that can occur with long-term dopaminergic treatment.

DBS may be considered for selected patients who still respond to medication but develop significant fluctuations or dyskinesia that become difficult to manage.

Rehabilitation can support mobility, daily function and communication, often through physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy as needed.

Yes. While not curable, many people manage symptoms over the years through medication adjustments, advanced therapies when appropriate, and multidisciplinary care.