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Updated: Feb 24, 2026

Author Spotlight: Exploring Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease
Published on: September 22, 2023
Identifying barriers to help-seeking for non-motor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease
Catherine S Hurt1, Lorna Rixon1, K Ray Chaudhuri2,3
11 City, University of London, UK.
Abstract:
Non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease have a significant impact on quality of life. Despite this, many non-motor symptoms remain unreported by patients and consequently untreated. This study explored barriers to help-seeking using two theoretical frameworks, the Common Sense Model of illness perception and Theoretical Domains Framework. A total of 20 participants completed semi-structured interviews to explore symptom beliefs and help-seeking behaviour. Uncertainty about the relationship of non-motor symptoms to Parkinson's disease and lack of clarity around treatments were common. Embarrassment and communication difficulties were common for potentially sensitive symptoms such as sexual dysfunction. Symptom perceptions and beliefs about help-seeking acted as barriers to reporting non-motor symptoms.
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