Parkinson's Disease Specialist
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Lori Schneider, MD
Neurologist & Medical Acupuncturist located in Cornelius, NC and serving patients from Huntersville, Davidson, Mooresville, Charlotte and Denver, NC
If you have noticed a tremor, stiffness, or your movements are slowed, you may have Parkinson’s disease. At Lakeside Neurology and Wellness Center in Cornelius, North Carolina, Lori Schneider, MD, a board-certified neurologist, offers comprehensive diagnostic services and customized treatment plans that focus on holistic therapies. Dr. Schneider works closely with you to reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and keep you independent. To find out more about Parkinson’s disease treatment, call Lakeside Neurology and Wellness Center, or request an appointment online today.
Parkinson's Disease Q & A
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of your nervous system that affects your movements. The root cause of Parkinson’s disease isn’t well understood, but your genetic background and environment may play a role.
The disease is the result of the death of certain nerve cells in your brain. As the cells die off, levels of the chemical messenger dopamine begin to decrease. This decrease of dopamine causes abnormal activity in your brain that leads to common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, you may notice tremors that begin in your hands. As the disease progresses, you may develop symptoms like:
- Rigid muscles
- Slowed movements
- Loss of balance
- Difficulties with unconscious movements (e.g., blinking, smiling)
You may also experience changes in your speech, such as increased slurring or hesitation before you speak.
As your condition worsens without treatment, you’re at increased risk for additional complications, including emotional changes, swallowing issues, sleep disorders, and chronic fatigue.
How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed?
While there is no specific test to confirm Parkinson’s disease, Dr. Schneider at Lakeside Neurology and Wellness Center is highly skilled in evaluating symptoms and reviewing your medical history to determine if you have the condition.
You may need blood tests to rule out metabolic or nutritional abnormalities or other underlying medical conditions that can cause similar symptoms. An MRI or other imaging tests may also be helpful to rule out other neurological conditions.
How is Parkinson’s disease treated?
Parkinson’s disease isn’t curable, but Dr. Schneider can help you manage your symptoms. She creates a treatment plan that focuses on holistic therapies, including physical therapy, to relieve tremors and other related symptoms.
Dr. Schneider may also prescribe traditional medications that increase or replace your dopamine levels to control symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. These medications are effective at controlling symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease.
Through routine checkups, Dr. Schneider continues to monitor your condition and can recommend the necessary lifestyle changes to keep you independent and enjoying a high quality of life.
If you have symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and need a comprehensive evaluation, call Lakeside Neurology and Wellness Center, or schedule an appointment through the online booking system today.