Information for the public
Finding out if you have Parkinson's disease
The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are changes in your movement and balance. Symptoms may include:
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shaking (tremor)
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stiffness
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slowness
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balance problems
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changes in how you walk (your gait).
If you have problems with some or all of these things, and your GP suspects Parkinson's disease, they should refer you to a specialist – either a neurologist or a geriatrician.
A neurologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in disorders of the brain, spinal cord and nerves, and a geriatrician is a healthcare professional who specialises in disorders that affect older people.
You should not be given any treatment before you see a specialist.