ParkinsonsUKreigate
Aiming to support individuals with Parkinson's
FAQ
Below you will find answers to some of the general questions that we are asked. If you have any particular questions do feel free to contact us on the contact form or ask us at the meetings. Also the Parkinson’s UK website is great source of information.
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Also use the Parkinson's UK free confidential helpline number – 0808 800 0303
A selection of commonly asked questions.
What is Parkinsons?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurological disorder that occurs when the cells in the brain that make dopamine start to die. The rate of progression and symptoms are different for everyone.
What symptoms can I expect?
No one can accurately predict the progression of Parkinson’s for any individual, but the disease will advance over time. Usually motor symptoms, like tremors, slowness of movement, and rigidity, start on one side of the body and move to the other side over time. Balance later becomes a problem, and non-motor symptoms like depression, anxiety, constipation, low blood pressure, and many others can start at any time.
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How many people have Parkinsons?
There are approximately 10 million people worldwide with Parkinsons. In the UK about 1 in 350 people has it. In Surrey we have about 3,000 with the disease.
What are the early signs of Parkinsons?
Early signs of Parkinson’s include tremor, slowness of movement, trouble sleeping, a soft voice, small handwriting, loss of sense of smell, constipation, masked face, dizziness and stooped posture.