Parkinsons Resources of Oregon

Coping with Parkinson’s Disease

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If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), you probably have many questions and concerns and you may be on an emotional rollercoaster.


If you or someone close to you has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), you probably have many questions and concerns and you may be on an emotional rollercoaster.

Remember that you are not alone. As many as one million people in the US and an estimated seven to ten million worldwide live with Parkinson’s disease.

With a diagnosis now in hand and the freedom to learn at your own pace, you can begin to understand Parkinson’s and its treatments and the role they will play in your life. Your diagnosis can be the first step to taking charge of your life with Parkinson’s disease. What are some next steps?

Inform Yourself about PD:

You will need time to adjust to the new diagnosis, so educate yourself about PD – slowly. Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon provides individual counseling, educational workshops, a HelpLine, suggestions of local support groups and classes to help you and your loved ones become informed.

Assemble a HealthCare Team:

Managing PD and the varied symptoms that arise over time requires expertise and a team of health professionals. In addition to a neurologist you trust, you might seek connection with a social worker, physical therapist, speech therapist and of course your primary physician as well.

Make a Plan for Telling Friends and Family:

As Parkinson’s symptoms progress, friends and family may notice changes and become concerned – even though you are feeling fine! Remember, you control the information about your diagnosis and how you share with others. A simple explanation is typically sufficient. If you have concerns about disclosing at your workplace, ask your physician or seek advice.

Accept Support From Others:

You don’t have to cope with Parkinson’s alone. There is a community ready to accept you, share stories of success and bolster you on down days.

Get Moving!

There is no better time than today to take action to control your health and wellness. Find an exercise class, learn about nutrition and engage with your neurologist to optimize your treatment plan.

With Parkinson’s disease, situations will change. You will need to be prepared, flexible, and willing to seek information and support as needed.

If you have questions about Parkinson’s, resources in the community or would like to schedule a time to talk with one of our counselors, please call: 800-426.6806.

Article Provided by:
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon
800-426-6806
www.ParkinsonsResources.org

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Early warning signs of Parkinson’s Disease

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Sometimes it is hard to tell that you might have Parkinson’s disease. The early symptoms are mild and could have other causes making it challenging even for experts to confirm an early diagnosis.

Sometimes it is hard to tell that you might have Parkinson’s disease. The early symptoms are mild and could have other causes making it challenging even for experts to confirm an early diagnosis.
Some of the more common early signs of Parkinson’s disease are indicated below. If you are noticing these warning signs and have unexplained symptoms, tell your doctor and ask for an evaluation. Many of these symptoms are normal, caused by medications or other conditions. An expert will be able to evaluate and help you determine their cause.

  1. Tremor or Shaking: Tremor or shaking of limbs is a common early sign of Parkinson’s.
  2. Small Handwriting: A sudden change in handwriting, such as smaller letter size, may be a sign of Parkinson’s.
  3. Loss of Smell: Sense of smell can be changed by a cold, flu or stuffy nose, but ask your doctor if it persists.
  4. Trouble Sleeping: Even in sleep, Parkinson’s signs can be detected with sudden movements and thrashing while deeply asleep.
  5. Trouble Moving or Walking: Stiffness and rigidity that doesn’t go away when you move or walk.
  6. Constipation: If you do not have enough water or fiber in your body, it can cause problems in the bathroom. Also some medications cause constipation. Speak with your doctor if you are concerned.
  7. A Soft Voice: While not always an early symptom, a very soft or hoarse sounding voice might be caused by Parkinson’s disease.
  8. Masked Face: If others comment that you have a serious, depressed or mad look on your face, even when you are not in a bad mood it could be related to PD.
  9. Dizziness or Fainting: Feeling dizzy or fainting can be signs of low blood pressure and can also be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
  10. Stooping Over: Many people with Parkinson’s experience stooping, leaning or slouching when standing.

No single one of these signs means that you should worry about Parkinson’s disease. If you have multiple indications or are concerned, you should make an appointment to talk to your doctor.

For more information about Parkinson’s disease and local services to help contact Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon at 800-426-6806.

Article provided by:
Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon
800-426-6806

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