Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor system and, over time, may also impact non-motor functions. It is caused by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons, mainly in the substantia nigra of the brain. At barnaclínic+, we have a multidisciplinary team with over 25 years of experience in managing Parkinson's disease and other parkinsonisms. We offer a comprehensive approach, from early clinical diagnosis to the most advanced treatments, tailored to each stage of the disease: pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and functional neurosurgery, such as deep brain stimulation or HIFU.
Parkinson's disease causes a combination of motor and non-motor symptoms that progress over time and vary from person to person. In many cases, the first symptoms are subtle or nonspecific, which can delay diagnosis.
Before the typical Parkinson’s motor symptoms appear, early signs may include:
· Loss of smell (hyposmia)
· Persistent constipation
· Sleep disturbances (such as REM sleep behavior disorder)
· Anxiety or depression
These symptoms are not easily associated with Parkinson's and may go unnoticed by both the patient and the healthcare provider.
Parkinson’s motor symptoms often appear asymmetrically, affecting one side of the body more than the other, especially in early stages. The most characteristic signs are:
· Bradykinesia: slowness of voluntary movements
· Resting tremor: especially in one hand or limb
· Muscle rigidity: resistance to movement, often painful
· Postural and gait disturbances: short steps, shuffling, difficulty turning
These symptoms may precede motor signs or worsen in later stages:
· Sleep disorders
· Fatigue or apathy
· Mood or cognitive changes
· Swallowing or balance disorders
In more advanced stages, reduced postural reflexes and cognitive decline may occur, significantly affecting quality of life.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical. It is based on a detailed medical history and specialized neurological examination. There is no single test to confirm the diagnosis, although imaging studies such as MRI, SPECT, or PET can help support the diagnosis or rule out other causes of Parkinson’s disease. In some cases, a neuropsychological evaluation or levodopa challenge test may be required.
Our team is also actively involved in research focused on early detection of Parkinson's disease, aiming to identify the condition even years before the first motor symptoms appear. This is especially relevant in the prodromal phase, when subtle signs such as loss of smell or constipation may arise. Early detection enables more effective and personalized interventions.
At barnaclínic+, we perform differential diagnosis to distinguish Parkinson's disease from other types of parkinsonism, such as atypical or drug-induced. Early detection and specialized care are key to offering effective, personalized treatment options.
Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s, we offer multiple options to alleviate symptoms. At barnaclínic+, we tailor each treatment plan to the patient's progression, combining medication, supportive therapies, and advanced surgical options.
barnaclínic+ was one of the first centers in Spain to integrate advanced non-pharmacological therapies for Parkinson's disease, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or HIFU. This pioneering commitment to therapeutic innovation has enabled us to achieve excellent clinical results, with significant improvements in our patients' quality of life and a low rate of complications. Our approach combines cutting-edge technology, personalized follow-up, and more than two decades of experience.
In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, or MAO-B inhibitors are effective in controlling symptoms. Over time, motor complications may arise, such as on-off fluctuations or dyskinesias, which require treatment adjustments or reassessment.
Physical rehabilitation, speech therapy, neuropsychology, and adapted exercise help maintain autonomy and improve quality of life. Psychological and social support are also essential for comprehensive Parkinson's care.
When symptoms are not adequately controlled with medication, treatments such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) or HIFU are considered. Both are safe and effective procedures performed by the Functional Neurosurgery team at Hospital Clínic, pioneers in these techniques.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) involves implanting electrodes in specific brain areas, connected to a neurostimulator placed under the skin. The system emits electrical impulses that regulate abnormal brain activity and help control Parkinson's motor symptoms continuously, 24/7.
It is indicated for patients with advanced Parkinson's, good response to levodopa, and motor complications not controlled by medication. At barnaclínic+, we perform this intervention under general anesthesia, without shaving the head, and with intraoperative image verification, enhancing safety and patient comfort.
MORE INFO ABOUT DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION
HIFU is a non-invasive technique that uses focused ultrasound waves to create a small lesion in the brain area responsible for symptoms, especially tremor control. The procedure does not require opening the skull or implanting devices and is performed inside an MRI scanner.
It is particularly suitable for older patients, those with predominant tremor on one side of the body, or those who are not candidates for DBS surgery. At barnaclínic+, we carefully select candidates and offer specialized follow-up after the procedure.
The Movement Disorders Unit at barnaclínic+ is led by internationally renowned specialists with over 30 years of experience in diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease and other parkinsonisms. Our approach is based on personalized medicine, tailored to each patient's stage and needs, offering close, compassionate, and committed care.
Thanks to our DET model (Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment), we offer a fast, coordinated, and efficient pathway-both outpatient and short-stay admissions. We reduce usual waiting times while ensuring high clinical standards. We also have one of the most advanced neurological ICUs in the world.
We offer the most advanced technological resources for diagnosing and monitoring Parkinson's disease, including functional neuroimaging, specific complementary tests, and intraoperative CT verification systems. This equipment ensures safe, precise decision-making at every treatment stage.
We offer highly specialized, minimally invasive Parkinson's surgery, based on:
· No medication withdrawal or head shaving, improving patient experience and recovery
· Surgery under general anesthesia with intraoperative CT verification, avoiding the discomfort of awake surgery
· Reduced surgical time and possibility of completing the procedure in a single session
· Minimal hospital stay: fast postoperative recovery, with a maximum 3-day admission
Our Hospitalization Suite combines the highest clinical standards with top-tier hospitality services. We respect the patient's privacy, confidentiality, and comfort at all times, with nursing care specialized in neurological patients.
barnaclínic+ is part of Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, one of Europe's leading hospitals. Our center stands out for its scientific impact, leadership in medical innovation, and training capacity, attracting professionals from around the world. This background guarantees top-tier care and access to the latest advances in Parkinson's treatment.
Consult our specialists and access a comprehensive evaluation.
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