Parkinson’s disease is a long-term neurological condition that affects movement and, over time, many non-motor aspects of health. Early symptoms are often subtle and may go unnoticed. A change in handwriting, a stiff shoulder, reduced facial expression, softening of voice, slowing of movements, tremor in one hand, loss of smell, constipation, or disturbed sleep can be early warning signs. Recognising these symptoms early allows timely medical intervention and better long-term outcomes.

The cornerstone of Parkinson’s treatment remains medications. These tablets help replace or mimic dopamine, the chemical that is deficient in the brain. In the early years, often referred to as the “Honeymoon phase”, medicines usually work well and provide good symptom control. However, as the disease progresses, many patients experience fluctuations—periods when medicines wear off early, excessive involuntary movements (dyskinesias), or unpredictable response to tablets. When such problems begin to interfere with daily life, it is time to think beyond tablets.

Advanced therapies are designed to provide more continuous and stable symptom control. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery involves implanting electrodes in specific brain regions to improve motor symptoms and reduce medication-related complications. Optimal clinical benefits are obtained by postoperative programming by a Movement Disorder Neurologist. Apomorphine infusion pumps deliver continuous medication under the skin, helping smoothen the motor fluctuations. MRI-guided focused ultrasound is a non-invasive option for selected patients, particularly for tremor control.

Choosing the right therapy is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires careful evaluation by a Movement Disorders Neurologist. Equally important is a multidisciplinary approach—physiotherapy for balance and gait, speech therapy for voice and swallowing, neuropsychological support, and dietary guidance. Such a team approach ensures personalised care addressing all facets of Parkinson’s disease care. This highlights the importance of a dedicated Parkinson’s disease clinic. 

“Parkinson’s Disease should not be seen as a condition where options end when tablets fail. Today, advanced therapies allow us to restore stability and dignity to patients’ lives—even in later stages of the disease.”