Progression of Parkinson’s

The diagnosis phase is when a person receives a diagnosis. The person should be provided with information to help them adjust to life with the condition. Patients are typically referred untreated to a specialist in movement disorders to begin treatment. Depending on current symptoms and the point of diagnosis, the person may or may not be prescribed medication.

During the maintenance phase, symptoms will have increased significantly. The majority of people will be on a medication regime to control their symptoms, which should be reviewed every 6 months.

The complex phase is when symptoms begin to significantly affect a personu2019s day-to-day life. Medications may become less effective, or the side effects may outweigh the benefits. A medication regime may need to be frequently altered to meet the changing needs of the person. People often lose independence at this stage, needing help with activities and daily living. Additionally, the person may experience increased mobility problems, falls, and mental health symptoms such as depression, anxiety, hallucinations, delusions, or dementia. Pain management is crucial at this stage. Counselling, social service, falls services, respite care, and day care at home may need to be brought in as part of the multi-disciplinary team.

The goal during the palliative phase is to achieve the best quality of life while maintaining the personu2019s dignity. Support and pain control services should be used. Regular medication reviews are often needed. Although the length of this phase varies from person to person, the palliative phase can cover a longer period of time. Advanced symptoms of Parkinsonu2019s affect overall health, making a person more susceptible to infection. Infection or other conditions related to poor health as a result of Parkinsonu2019s is the most common cause of death. A care plan that details wishes for end of life should be in place during this phase.