Dr. Dolhun Discusses Parkinson’s Diagnosis

Dear Friend, 

A Parkinson's diagnosis is a life-changing event that brings many questions. Some of the first may be: How does my doctor know I have Parkinson's? Is there a test to confirm it? 

We don't yet have a brain scan or blood test to diagnose Parkinson's. So doctors use what you tell them about your symptoms and what they see in your exam to make a diagnosis. The Michael J. Fox Foundation and others are working urgently toward tests to diagnose and track PD because objective measurements would improve care and speed research. 

Watch this video to learn more about Parkinson's diagnosis and ongoing work to find a test for Parkinson's disease.

Through the "Ask the MD" blogs and videos, I translate the science, research and medicine of Parkinson's. I hope these resources help you navigate life with the disease a little more easily. 

Thank you for being a valuable member of our community. 

Warmly, 
Rachel Dolhun, MD

P.S. For more, watch a webinar on diagnosis and learn more about the search for a Parkinson's test. 

Ask the MD has been made possible through the leadership of members of our Parkinson's Disease Education Consortium in conjunction with The Albert B. Glickman Parkinson's Disease Education Program. These partners' support allows us to furnish high-quality educational content to the Parkinson's community while maintaining our commitment to allocate donor dollars to high-impact research. Editorial control of all Michael J. Fox Foundation-published content rests solely with the Foundation.