Every few years, I look back at what I have written for people newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s, to see what has changed over the years. The last time I did this, I wrote a pretty compreshensive list ranging from what to tell your neurologist to Parkinson’s organizations. I have made a few revisions, but almost everything else is the same.
Meeting with your neurologist
Going to the neurologist can be an overwhelming experience. How can you get the most out of your visit? For starters, are you going alone? Can you bring someone with you who can help ask questions? There are so many things that can differentiate between the tremor you have that could be Parkinson’s or a totally different diagnosis.
Make a list
Make a list of your symptoms and questions on your computer. Print it out and bring it to the doctor. It is very easy to forget things when you are in the doctor’s office. Make sure you save it on your computer, then all you have to do is revise it for subsequent visits to your doctors. It is also a good idea to take a copy to your general practitioner to put in your records.
Start by telling your doctor which of the following symptoms you have that could be related to PD:
- Insomnia – this often starts years before anything else is noticed. For most people, waking in the middle of the night and not being able to get back to sleep is the problem.
- Daytime Fatigue
- Constipation
- Stiffness
- Lack of arm swing on affected side
- Gait problems – tripping, walking unevenly
- Loss of Smell
- Soft voice – do people complain that they can’t hear you?
- Balance problems
- Small handwriting
- Are you having hallucinations?
- Apathy/Depression
- Falls
Have you been exposed to pesticides such as Paraquat or TCE which are known to cause Parkinson’s and other neurological diseases.
Did I miss something? Remember, everyone has a different combination of symptoms. If you think it might be Parkinson’s, it probably is.
Medications:
Make a list of any medications and supplements you are taking. It is helpful to type this list with the name of the medication or supplement, the dose and prescribing doctor. Some medications may have side effects that mimic Parkinson’s. In addition, some supplements may counteract your PD meds. Ask your doctor if it is ok to continue taking everything on the list.
For more information I would suggest that you read my post from August, 2023
Advice for the Almost Diagnosed
Have a great week!
Leave a Reply