Parkinson’s awareness month

GPs in Lincolnshire are calling on local residents to support Parkinson’s Awareness month this April to help raise awareness of the condition and the support available across Lincolnshire.

Every hour two people in the UK are told they have Parkinson’s and it is estimated that the number of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s in the UK is approximately 145,000 – that’s around one adult (i.e. people aged 18 or over) in every 350. Most people who get Parkinson’s are aged 50 or over but younger people can get it too.

One of the most commonly associated symptoms of Parkinson’s is shaking or trembling.  However, the disease affects everyone differently and symptoms can include difficulties with movement, tiredness, pain and problems with memory.

Every person with Parkinson’s is different and what can be more frustrating to sufferers is that the effects of the disease can change from day to day.  Symptoms that may be noticeable one day may well not be a problem the next.  This can have a huge impact on daily life.

Whilst there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, there are a range of medicines available to help patients manage their symptoms and continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.

There is also support available in our area to enable patients, families and their carers meet and socialise with others and receive valuable help and support.

For more information about the condition visit www.nhs.uk and for advice and support please visit www.parkinsons.org.uk for more information about support groups in your local area.