Can Parkinson’s disease be cured, and how do medicines and brain stimulation help?
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but medicines, rehabilitation and exercise can improve symptoms and daily functioning. Deep brain stimulation helps selected patients; it does not stop the disease or suit everyone. Treatment requires ongoing review.
Details
A plan beyond tremor
The team addresses slowness and stiffness as well as sleep, mood, constipation, swallowing and balance. Care may include levodopa or other medicines, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech or swallowing support according to need.
Choosing advanced treatment
If medicine response fluctuates or involuntary movements become troublesome, a specialist can assess additional options. Deep brain stimulation requires careful selection and a discussion of benefits and risks. Medicines are often still needed afterwards.
Keep follow-up safe
Take doses at the agreed times and do not stop treatment abruptly, as this can cause serious deterioration. Report falls, hallucinations, new impulsive behaviour or swallowing difficulty. Progression varies between individuals, so a fixed number of years of improvement cannot be promised to everyone.
Related reading: How can I support memory and brain health as I get older?.