Healthcare providers diagnose Parkinson’s based on a person’s medical history and symptoms.
In the early stages, Parkinson’s can be hard to diagnose because symptoms are mild and can look like other conditions.
A person is diagnosed with Parkinson’s when they have bradykinesia (slow movement), plus resting tremor, stiffness, or both.
Medical Examination
During the exam, the provider will check for:
- Tremor
- Bradykinesia
- Rigidity
- Reflexes
- Balance while walking and standing
- Ability to do certain tasks with the hands
Your provider will also ask about:
- Other health conditions
- Medicines you take
- History of falls
- Trouble walking
Tell your provider about any changes in mood, thinking, sleep, or bladder and bowel function.
Sometimes providers will do a “medication challenge” to help confirm the diagnosis. If motor symptoms improve a lot with medicine, this suggests Parkinson’s. If not, a different diagnosis may be more likely.
Last Updated May 2026