Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement and daily function. It develops gradually, with symptoms such as hand tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements, and even changes in speech. Over time, these challenges can make everyday activities increasingly difficult for patients and their families. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and proper management can greatly improve quality of life. Seeking the right specialist is key. A neurologist in Singapore can assess symptoms, provide accurate diagnosis, and tailor treatment. With the support of an experienced neurologist Singapore, patients can better manage Parkinson disease effectively. Read further to see how a neurologist in Singapore can make a difference for Parkinson’s patients.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It develops when nerve cells in the brain, especially those producing dopamine, gradually deteriorate or die. Dopamine is a chemical messenger essential for controlling smooth and coordinated muscle movement, so its loss leads to the hallmark motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. Patients may experience hand tremors at rest, muscle stiffness, slowed movements (bradykinesia), and difficulties with balance and coordination.
This condition can also affect other aspects of daily life. Speech may become softer or slurred, handwriting may shrink, and facial expressions can appear reduced, sometimes making communication more difficult. Many patients also experience non-motor symptoms, such as sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, constipation, and cognitive changes. These non-motor symptoms often have a significant impact on quality of life, even in the early stages of the disease.
The progression of Parkinson’s disease varies widely from person to person. Some may experience mild symptoms for years, while others may see rapid changes in mobility and independence. Early recognition and intervention are critical, as timely management can slow symptom progression and improve overall wellbeing.
Why See a Neurologist Singapore for Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease affects movement, coordination, and even mood or memory, making it a complex condition to manage. While your regular doctor can provide advice, a neurologist in Singapore has the training and experience to diagnose and treat it properly. Seeing a specialist early is important because Parkinson’s can look like other movement problems, and getting the right diagnosis means you can start the best treatment sooner.
Neurologists can examine symptoms carefully. They will check medical history, and look for subtle signs like mild tremors, stiffness, or changes in walking. They also monitor patients over time and adjust treatments as needed.
How Neurologists Diagnose Parkinson’s Disease?
Diagnosing Parkinson’s disease can be challenging because its symptoms often develop gradually and may resemble other movement or neurological conditions. A neurologist in Singapore follows a step-by-step approach to diagnose Parkinson’s disease:
- Step 1: Medical History Review
- Discuss symptoms, their onset, and progression.
- Review family history and other health conditions.
- Step 2: Physical and Neurological Examination
- Assess tremors, muscle stiffness, posture, and balance.
- Check coordination, reflexes, and walking patterns.
- Step 3: Observation of Symptom Patterns
- Look for hallmark signs such as resting tremors, slow movements (bradykinesia), and stiffness.
- Evaluate changes in facial expressions, speech, or handwriting.
- Step 4: Diagnostic Tests to Rule Out Other Conditions
- Brain scans or blood tests may be used to exclude similar disorders.
- Brain scans or blood tests may be used to exclude similar disorders.
- Step 5: Medication Response Evaluation
- Sometimes, response to Parkinson’s medication helps confirm the diagnosis.
Following these steps, a neurologist ensures an accurate diagnosis, allowing patients to start a personalized treatment plan early.
Treatment Options a Neurologist Provides
Parkinson’s disease is managed through a combination of approaches that aim to reduce symptoms, maintain daily functioning, and improve overall quality of life. In Singapore, neurologist’s treatment plans are tailored to each patient, and usually include:
- Medications
Medications are the most common way to manage Parkinson’s symptoms. They help replace or mimic dopamine, the chemical in the brain that controls movement. Common options include levodopa, which replaces dopamine to improve movement and reduce stiffness; dopamine agonists, which mimic dopamine’s effects; and MAO-B inhibitors, which slow dopamine breakdown to prolong its benefits.
- Therapy
Therapies play an important role in maintaining mobility, independence, and daily functioning. Physical therapy helps improve strength, balance, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls. Occupational therapy teaches techniques for everyday tasks, such as dressing, cooking, and writing. Speech therapy can assist with voice clarity, communication, and swallowing difficulties. Together, these therapies help patients stay active and maintain a higher quality of life.
- Surgery
Surgery is considered for patients whose symptoms are not fully controlled by medications and therapy. The most common option is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which involves implanting electrodes in the brain to send electrical signals that improve movement. Surgical treatment is personalized and carefully evaluated by a neurologist to ensure it is suitable and safe for the patient.
Continuous Care and Follow-Up
Ongoing care is essential for managing Parkinson’s disease effectively. A neurologist in Singapore monitors patients regularly to track changes in symptoms, adjust medications, and evaluate the effectiveness of therapies. Routine check-ups help address both motor and non-motor symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, sleep difficulties, and mood changes. Neurologists also work closely with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists to provide comprehensive care.
Conclusion
Effective management of Parkinson’s disease relies on early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and ongoing care. With the right combination of medications, therapy, and, when needed, surgical options, patients can manage symptoms and maintain a better quality of life. Consulting a specialist ensures that every aspect of the condition is carefully monitored and addressed. Book a consultation to our neurologist for a comprehensive assessment and personalized care at:
CHOU Neurosurgery Clinic (Farrer Park) – Brain & Spine Specialist Singapore
Farrer Park Hospital
1 Farrer Park Station Rd, #08-06, Singapore 217562
Phone: +65 6694 7942
