Parkinson’s Disease is a clinical diagnosis meaning that there is no absolute test that defines it. It is not like diabetes where you have a blood test or a stroke where you can take a picture of the brain.
Doctors must listen to the signs and symptoms described by the patient and along with a physical exam can help in determining if the patient is experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
Medical students are taught TRAP:
- T – Tremor – tremors in one side, one hand or one leg
- R – Rigidity – increased tone
- A – Akinesia – lack of movement
- P – Postural instability – falls, balance issues, etc.
Early Parkinson’s Disease Video
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNzIaABFAMc” width=”560″ height=”315″]
