Parkinson’s disease is not curable, but its symptoms can be treated very effectively.

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is currently unknown. However, it is believed that several factors interact in a complex manner. In younger patients with disease onset before the age of 45, genetic causes can often be identified.

Parkinson’s disease is caused by a progressive loss of specific nerve cells in the brain. These nerve cells are involved in the production and storage of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Reduced release of dopamine explains the motor symptoms of the disease.

These disturbances, which often begin on one side of the body, include:

1. Slowing of movements and movement sequences
2. Muscle stiffness
3. Tremor (shaking) – about 2/3 of patients
4. Gait and balance problems, which usually occur later in the course of the disease

Symptoms that may appear many years before the onset of motor symptoms include:

• A characteristic sleep disorder known as REM sleep behavior disorder, which is marked by vivid nightmares, shouting, or sudden movements during sleep
• Constipation
• Reduced sense of smell, often followed by a reduced ability to taste food
• Depressive moods and anxiety disorders

To enable early initiation of multidisciplinary treatment approaches (medication, exercise therapy, physiotherapy, nutritional counseling), symptoms such as tremor, gait disturbances, frequent falls, slowed movements, a soft voice, or changes in facial expression should always be taken seriously.

Diagnostic evaluation includes a brain MRI (using a state‑of‑the‑art 3‑Tesla MRI scanner), blood tests, and a comprehensive neurological examination by a Parkinson’s specialist.

The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is primarily based on a thorough clinical examination by a specialized neurologist.

An experienced specialist can distinguish Parkinson’s disease from other, rarer atypical Parkinsonian syndromes or from essential tremor. Other movement disorders, such as dystonia, can also be identified and diagnosed clinically.

The goal of diagnostic evaluation is to recognize typical features of Parkinson’s disease and to rule out other causes. Atypical Parkinsonian syndromes can often be detected even in early stages using a highly advanced 3‑Tesla MRI scanner.

In the early stages of the disease, appropriate medication can improve symptoms by 60–100%. Symptoms can be improved at any stage of the disease.

Thanks to modern therapies, life expectancy in people with Parkinson’s disease is not or only minimally reduced.

In addition to optimal medical treatment, symptoms—and possibly even disease progression—can be positively influenced by regular physical activity, physiotherapy, and a balanced diet.

At Döbling Private Hospital, patients are offered comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and ongoing therapeutic care by an experienced Parkinson’s specialist. All necessary examinations (laboratory tests, MRI, etc.) are carried out in-house without long waiting times.

Specially trained physiotherapists and a dietitian are also available to support our patients.

Please contact us for further information or appointments!