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When Parkinson’s is Missed
Last Updated on April 4, 2025 by tanya
When Parkinson’s is Missed
Symptoms And When You Can Claim for Medical Negligence
When Parkinson’s is missed by a doctor, it can have serious consequences. It is a progressive neurological condition which affects the brain. So, a correct early diagnosis may make a significant outcome for the patient.
Parkinson’s was first defined as a medical conditions in 1817 by a James Parkinson. His birthday was 11th April, and as a result World Parkinson’s Day is held on this day every year. This event is to raise awareness of the devastating impact this condition can have on those who are suffering from this condition and their families.
However, Parkinson’s is sometimes incorrectly diagnosed as being another medical condition. This is a misdiagnosis, or it may be a delayed diagnosis. So if medical negligence is found to have happened, you may be able to file a medical negligence claim.
If you want to find out more about a potential claim for compensation, First Personal Injury can to help you. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease caused by the loss of nerve cells in a particular region of the brain. This leads to a reduction in dopamine, chemical that helps control movement. When dopamine levels drop, symptoms start to appear.
However, it’s important to note that not everyone presents with the same symptoms. Additionally, because many symptoms come on gradually, they’re easy to miss or confuse with another medical condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s?
While Parkinson’s is best known for causing tremors, there is a wide range of symptoms. These may include:
Motor Symptoms
Tremor
This is one of the classic symptoms. It often starts in the hands or fingers and may be more noticeable when the person is at rest.
Slowness of Movement (Bradykinesia)
People with Parkinson’s often find it takes longer to do things. Movements become slow, and it might take more effort to get going.
Stiffness
Muscles can become stiff, which limits range of motion. It can be painful and make everyday tasks harder, such as dressing or walking.
Balance and Coordination Problems
Parkinson’s can affect your posture and lead to balance issues, increasing the risk of falls.
Facial Masking
Some people lose facial expression, which can make them look uninterested or even depressed—even when they’re not.
Speech and Writing Changes
Speech may become soft, slurred or monotone. Handwriting might get smaller, known as micrographia.
Non-Motor Symptoms
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety and depression
- Constipation
- Memory issues
- Loss of smell
These “invisible” symptoms are often the most overlooked, but they can have a huge impact.
Conditions That May Be Confused With Parkinson’s
There are quite a few medical conditions that mimic Parkinson’s disease, resulting in the condition being misdiagnosed. These include:
Familial Tremor
This is one of the most common misdiagnoses. Familial or essential tremor typically affects both hands and gets worse with movement. However, Parkinson’s tremor is more often one-sided and happens at rest.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)
This condition also causes stiffness, slowness, and balance problems, but it progresses faster than Parkinson’s.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
PSP includes problems with balance and eye movements and may sometimes be confused with Parkinson’s in its early stages.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
Causes walking problems, urinary incontinence, and memory issue – very similar to Parkinson’s in elderly patients.
Stroke or Mini-Stroke (TIA)
Symptoms like slowness and stiffness can resemble Parkinson’s, especially if they develop gradually.
Depression
People with depression can develop physical slowing and low energy, which are also symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Can You Make a Medical Negligence Claim?
You may be able to make a claim if the diagnosis of Parkinson’s was unreasonably delayed or incorrectly made, and this caused harm. Medical negligence focuses on care that falls below an acceptable standard, not necessarily just a missed or delayed diagnosis.
To go ahead with a claim, here are the following criteria:
Duty of Care
The medical professional (like a GP or neurologist) had a responsibility to treat you to an acceptable standard.
Breach of Duty
They failed to act in a way that another competent medical professional would have (e.g. not referring you, ignoring key symptoms).
Causation
This failure led directly to harm. For example:
- You didn’t get treatment early, and symptoms worsened.
- You were treated for the wrong condition.
- You lost out on quality of life due to delay.
First Steps in Filing A Medical negligence Claim
You generally have three years from the date of the misdiagnosis or the date you first realised there was negligence. If the claim involves someone who lacks mental capacity, this time limit might not apply in the same way.
It’s always best to get legal advice as soon as possible. Medical negligence claims can be complex, and having the right support can make a huge difference.
If you or a loved one, has suffered from a missed diagnosis for Parkinson’s, it is essential to speak to a medical negligence lawyer who will assess you case.
First Personal Injury can guide you through the process to get the compensation you deserve. We work with experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.