Author: Bridget MacCall

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disease involving three main symptoms: tremor, stiffness and slowness of movement. It is an extremely complicated and variable condition and no two people are exactly alike in terms of the symptoms they experience and how these progress. Accurate information is essential to help you understand how this difficult condition affects you personally.

This comprehensive guide answers 287 real questions asked by people with Parkinson’s and their families. It covers the whole range of symptoms and treatments, and offers reliable and practical advice on living life with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s: Answers at your fingertips includes:

• An overview of what Parkinson’s is and what causes it
• A thorough breakdown of all the potential symptoms and how they can be managed
• A comprehensive chapter on drug treatments, including new drugs such as duodopa, rotigotine and MAO-B inhibitors
• Answers to questions about relationships with family and friends, as well as those with professionals and the public
• Up-to-date guidance about practical concerns including health services, employment and benefits

 Sample questions include:

• Is Parkinson's more common in men than in women?
• I have a tremor in one hand. Will it spread? Should I learn to write with my other hand?
• What are the other medical conditions that sometimes get confused with Parkinson’s?
• I know that lack of balance and falling are fairly common among people with Parkinson’s. Why should this be?
• How important is the timing of medication?
• How do I know if the side effects are normal or not?
• How can I get to see a Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist?
• Can speech therapy help?
• What services do Social Security departments provide?
• What effects might my diagnosis have on my job security?
• Is it true I have to notify the DVLA about my Parkinson’s?
• Is there any help available with the cost of prescriptions?
• I want to keep looking after my wife, but need regular breaks. What is available?
• We have not had a holiday for years because of my Parkinson’s. Could you suggest anything that would be suitable?

“provides simple, clear answers to the many questions that people with Parkinson’s, their carers and families face”
Steve Ford, Chief Executive of Parkinson’s UK