Find Real Answers

A Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis brings endless questions. Questions that evolve as the disease and your ability to cope evolve. This April, for Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we want to help people find real answers when it comes to Parkinson’s.

When Parkinson’s gets real, the Parkinson’s Foundation is here to help you find real answers. We offer trusted, accessible support through our Helpline, website, social media and our new AI chat feature: Ask PAM.

Here are some of the top questions and answers people have about Parkinson’s:

What are the early signs of Parkinson’s?

Early signs of Parkinson’s can be subtle. While movement symptoms like tremors, stiffness and trouble with balance are the most noticeable, early signs also include a change in handwriting, loss of smell, trouble sleeping and vertigo. Learn all 10 early signs of PD.

What do you do after noticing early signs?

No one symptom means you have Parkinson’s. If you have several symptoms, consider seeing your primary doctor, then asking for a referral to a neurologist, or ideally, a movement disorders specialist (a specialized neurologist). Keep reading on this topic.

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?

Parkinson’s is diagnosed based on observation — a doctor assesses medical history, current symptoms and a physical exam. No single lab or test confirms a diagnosis, though certain tests can help rule out other conditions. Learn more about getting diagnosed.

What causes Parkinson’s?

Scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors are the cause of Parkinson’s. Genetics contribute to 10–15% of PD cases, with specific gene mutations linked to the disease. Learn more about this topic.

How do you manage Parkinson’s symptoms?

The most obvious symptoms of PD are called movement symptoms. Parkinson’s is called a movement disorder because it causes tremors, slowing and muscle stiffness. However, non-movement symptoms are common and can be more troublesome and disabling than movement symptoms for many people with Parkinson’s. These can include depression, anxiety, sleep issues and more.

Treatment often includes medications specific to your needs. The medication Levodopa is the most effective treatment for movement symptoms as it converts to dopamine in the brain. Treatments also include things that you do yourself such as exercise and rehabilitative therapies, such as physical or speech therapy.

Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, treatments can effectively manage symptoms. Medication, exercise and rehabilitative therapies help maintain mobility, balance and mental health. The Parkinson’s Foundation also funds research to advance better treatments and move us closer to a cure. Explore ongoing PD research.

Can you live a long life with Parkinson’s?

Yes. Parkinson’s symptoms and rate of progression are unique for every person living with the disease. Navigating PD involves building a care team with specialists who can address symptoms as they occur, building a support network and staying active.

Find nearby exercise classes and support groups through your nearest Parkinson’s Foundation Chapter. 

3 Ways to Find Real Answers to PD Questions

1. For immediate answers based on Parkinson’s Foundation information and articles, try our new AI-powered chat tool, Ask PAM (Parkinson’s Assistance Messenger). Ask PAM now.
2. Call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) to speak with an information specialist for personalized answers.
3. Explore Parkinson.org for tailored resources and information on the PD topics that matter most to you right now.

The Parkinson’s Foundation mission to help people live better with Parkinson’s continues strong year-round. Here are some ways you can help us raise PD awareness right now:

• Follow us on social media.
• Inspire others with your My PD Story.
• Sign up to volunteer.
• Find a virtual or in-person event near you.

Get more answers and help us raise Parkinson’s awareness on our Find Real Answers page.