Parkinson’s Disease: Better Understanding for Better Support

Parkinson’s disease is often mentioned, sometimes feared, but still poorly understood. Tremors, a disease affecting only the elderly… misconceptions are numerous. Yet knowledge and treatments have evolved considerably in recent years.

On the occasion of an information day for patients organized this Saturday, April 11, 2026, Dr. Vincent Leclercq, neurologist and specialist in movement disorders at the Movement Disorders Clinic of H.U.B, sheds light on the current realities of the disease and the importance of appropriate care.

Contrary to popular belief, Parkinson’s disease is not only a disease of older people.

“It is primarily an adult disease,” explains Dr. Leclercq.

On average, the first symptoms appear around the age of fifty. However, early-onset forms exist, sometimes beginning in one’s twenties, as well as diagnoses at 80 or 90 years old.

The disease affects both men and women. In Belgium, it concerns approximately 5% of the population, making it a common condition and a real public health issue.

Parkinson’s disease is not limited to tremors. Three major so-called “cardinal” symptoms should raise attention:

1. Resting tremor, usually affecting one hand at first, on one side, occurring when the hand is at rest.
2. Bradykinesia (slowness of movement): movements become slower and less precise, handwriting changes, difficulty buttoning a shirt, loss of fine dexterity.
3. Gait disturbances: walking slows down, steps become smaller, the body may lean forward.

The disease also includes many non-motor symptoms, often less visible yet highly disabling:

• Digestive or urinary disorders
• Difficulty concentrating
• Slowed thinking
• Swallowing disorders

These symptoms are sometimes the main complaint of patients. In case of doubt, referral to a specialized consultation is essential.

Parkinson’s disease is one of the few neurological diseases whose diagnosis is primarily clinical.

It is based on observation of symptoms and neurological examination. Additional tests may be performed in case of doubt but are not systematic. The announcement of the diagnosis is often a shock. 

“It is a moment that disrupts the patient’s life,” emphasizes Dr. Leclercq.

The team ensures that the diagnosis is delivered with sufficient time to answer questions, allow emotional expression, and lay the foundations for reassuring care.

In the early stages

Treatment mainly relies on dopatherapy: supplying the brain with the dopamine it lacks.

Results can be spectacular:

• Significant improvement in symptoms
• Preserved quality of life for several years

Patients may remain stable for a long time, with follow-up consultations mainly aimed at adjusting treatment.

In more advanced stages

After 5 to 10 years, medication effectiveness may fluctuate. “On” periods (when treatment works well) alternate with “off” periods.

Advanced therapies may then be proposed:

• Subcutaneous pump delivering continuous dopamine via a small needle
• Digestive pump administering dopamine directly into the stomach via a tube placed endoscopically
• Deep brain stimulation: a neurosurgical procedure implanting electrodes in deep brain structures, connected to a generator under the skin, similar to a pacemaker. This continuous stimulation compensates for deficient electrical activity

These solutions often allow better stability and significantly improve quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease.

Its progression varies greatly from person to person. Some patients progress very slowly, others more rapidly. To date, it is not possible to precisely predict the rate of progression.

Loss of autonomy may occur over time, particularly due to:

• Gait disorders
• Risk of falls
• Swallowing difficulties

However, things have changed.

In the past, complications (falls, aspiration, infections) often led to death. Today, thanks to appropriate and multidisciplinary care, people no longer die from Parkinson’s disease when it is properly managed.

To preserve autonomy as long as possible and prevent complications, the consultation works closely with:

• Physiotherapists
• Speech therapists
• Other specialized professionals

“This event is important because the disease remains poorly known and is often confused with other neurodegenerative conditions. Because 30-minute consultations every three months are not enough to cover all aspects of the disease. Because relatives and caregivers do not always have the opportunity to express their questions or difficulties,” explains Dr. Leclercq.

The program included:

• Thematic sessions led by various speakers
• Clear and accessible explanations
• Moments for discussion and Q&A
• A space for open, stigma-free dialogue

Promoting expertise and strengthening connections

Beyond informing patients and the general public, this day also highlights the expertise of the specialized Parkinson’s consultation:

• An experienced team
• A multidisciplinary approach
• Mastery of advanced therapies
• Human and individualized support for patients and their relatives

Because better understanding the disease already helps to live better with it. And because a well-informed and well-supported patient remains an active participant in their care journey. 

Together, let’s advance the understanding and management of Parkinson’s disease