One in 500 people have Parkinson’s and approximately 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed every year. The main symptoms of Parkinson’s are tremors (shaking), muscle stiffness and slowness of movement, but it can also impact on your day to day life, causing tiredness and pain.
We currently do not know what causes Parkinson’s disease and there is no cure for the disease. However there are various treatments that can be given to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease which can help you maintain your quality of life.
Our service
The Parkinson’s disease service is run by consultants, associate specialists and specialist nurses who all have expertise and experience in diagnosing and managing the condition. You will be referred to our service by your GP if the condition is suspected.
We will support you following your diagnosis and will:
- provide you with regular assessments to monitor your symptoms
- help you to understand your Parkinson’s diagnosis and your treatments
- provide you with support, advice and counselling
- help you to manage your medication
- provide support, education and advice for your family and carers
- refer you to other services where necessary, such as speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and social services
Clinics
We run regular face to face clinics as well as telephone clinics at:
- Medical rehabilitation day unit University Hospital of Hartlepool Hartlepool
- Medical rehabilitation unit University Hospital of North Tees Stockton
Our Team
- Dr Arun Annamalai, Consultant Geriatrician, Clinics at Hartlepool
- Dr Helen Blackett, Consultant Geriatrician, Clinics at Stockton
- Dr Dawn Noble, Associate Specialist, Clinics at both sites
- Gillian Stafford, Parkinsons Disease Nurse Specialist
Contact
Helpline
Our helpline number is 01429 522483. Monday and Thursday mornings 9am to 10.30am and answering machine service out of these hours.
Please note that the helpline is for people with Parkinson’s disease who are already known to our service as well as carers and health care professionals looking after them.
