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+ Parkinson’s · Neuro+ Medellín

Neurologists Specializing in Parkinson’s Disease in Medellín

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s, affecting about 1% of people over 60. Although there is no cure, the right treatment can control motor and non-motor symptoms for many years. At Neuro+, our neurologists offer comprehensive management of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders.

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See causes

1%

Of people over 60 live with Parkinson’s

4

Cardinal motor symptoms (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, instability)

2nd

Most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s

+ What is Parkinson's disease?

A progressive disease caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons

Parkinson’s disease is caused by the progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. Lower dopamine levels affect movement control, causing the characteristic motor symptoms. It also involves other neural pathways, which explains the non-motor symptoms that often precede diagnosis by years.

Is every tremor Parkinson’s?

Not always. Essential tremor, which is much more common, differs from Parkinson’s in that it appears with movement (not at rest), isn’t accompanied by rigidity or bradykinesia, and has a different pattern. The neurologist tells them apart through a clinical evaluation.

Neuróloga revisando una resonancia cerebral durante una consulta neurológica por Parkinson

+ Symptoms

Motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s

Motor Symptoms

Resting Tremor

  • Involuntary rhythmic shaking, most noticeable in the hands
  • Usually starts on one side of the body
  • Decreases with voluntary movement

Muscle Rigidity

  • Increased muscle tone that makes movement difficult
  • Constant resistance when moving the joints
  • Can cause pain and limit range of motion

Slowness of Movement · Bradykinesia

  • Progressive reduction in the speed and amplitude of movements
  • Difficulty starting voluntary movements
  • Everyday activities like buttoning clothes or writing become slower

Postural Instability and Gait Problems

  • Difficulty keeping your balance
  • Short, shuffling steps
  • Episodes of “freezing” while walking
  • Higher risk of falls in advanced stages

Non-Motor Symptoms · Often Precede Motor Symptoms by Years

Loss of Smell

  • A significant reduction in the ability to perceive smells
  • One of the earliest signs of the disease
  • Can appear several years before motor symptoms

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

  • Movimientos bruscos, patadas o vocalizaciones durante el sueño
  • The person “acts out” their dreams
  • Can precede Parkinson’s by up to a decade

Constipation

  • Slow bowel transit due to involvement of the autonomic nervous system
  • One of the most frequent and earliest non-motor symptoms

Depression and Anxiety

  • Mood changes that are part of the disease, not just an emotional reaction
  • Related to the chemical changes in the brain caused by Parkinson’s
  • May appear before motor symptoms

Cognitive Changes

  • Difficulties with attention, planning and memory in advanced stages
  • Neuropsychological follow-up allows them to be detected early

+ Progression

Stages of Parkinson’s disease (Hoehn and Yahr scale)

1Stage 1 · MildMild symptoms, usually on one side, that don’t interfere with daily activities.
2Stage 2 · BilateralSymptoms on both sides, without balance impairment.
3Stage 3 · BalanceImpaired balance, with functional independence preserved.
4Stage 4 · Significant DisabilitySignificant disability, although the patient can still walk or stand without help.
5Stage 5 · Full-Time AssistanceRequires a wheelchair or is bedridden unless assisted.

Warning signs — When to see a doctor?

If you recognize any of these signs, see a neurologist as soon as possible

Resting tremor that appeared recently
Noticeable slowness when starting movements or walking
Changes in handwriting (smaller and smaller writing) or in voice volume
Loss of smell with no clear cause, together with other symptoms
Frequent falls or marked balance problems

+ Diagnosis and treatment

Parkinson’s treatments at Neuro+

The goal of treatment is complete seizure control with the fewest possible side effects.

Levodopa / CarbidopaThe most effective treatment for the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s. Dose and frequency are adjusted based on response and the onset of motor fluctuations.
Dopamine Agonists and MAO-B InhibitorsAlternatives or add-ons to levodopa, especially useful in the early stages or to extend its effect.
Advanced TherapiesApomorphine pump, Duodopa and deep brain stimulation for patients with motor fluctuations that are hard to control with oral medication — evaluated case by case and coordinated with specialized functional neurosurgery centers when appropriate.
Botulinum ToxinUseful for managing sialorrhea (excess drooling) and some associated dystonias.
Management of Non-Motor SymptomsAddressing constipation, sleep disorders, depression and cognitive changes, often together with neuropsychology.
See neuropsychology →

+ Your first consultation

What is the first Parkinson’s consultation like at Neuro+?

​ The neurologist performs a detailed neurological exam and evaluates motor and non-motor symptoms.

Duration: 30 – 45 minutes — Motorand non-motor evaluation.

Approach: Detailed neurological exam and evaluation of non-motor symptoms.

Bring with you, if you have them:

  • A video of the symptoms if possible (tremor, walking)
  • A list of current medications
  • A companion who can share information about changes they’ve noticed

+ Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about Parkinson’s disease

Can Parkinson’s be cured?

There is no cure, but current treatment can control motor symptoms for many years and maintain a good quality of life.

No. Essential tremor is much more common than Parkinson’s and has different characteristics. The neurologist tells them apart through a clinical evaluation.

Cognitive impairment may occur in advanced stages, but not all patients develop it, and its onset and rate of progression vary greatly from person to person. See memory problems →

Most cases don’t have a clear hereditary pattern, although there are specific genetic forms, more common when diagnosed at a younger age.

It is evaluated in patients who initially responded well to levodopa but later develop motor fluctuations that are hard to control with medication adjustments, after a multidisciplinary evaluation.

More questions? Message us

+ Book today

Book your consultation with a neurologist specializing in Parkinson’s disease

Comprehensive management of motor and non-motor symptoms. In-person care in Medellín, or teleconsultation from any city.

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Neurology Dra. Tatiana Gómez, neuróloga especialista en enfermedades neuromusculares
Dr. Tatiana Gómez Neurologist

Neuromuscular diseases, sleep and movement disorders, migraine.

Ver perfil de la Dra. Gómez →