← Return to Parkinsonism Traits with No Diagnosis I’m Frustrated, Anyone else?

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Like you, we had many diagnoses over several years, many doctors, many meds, many ideas -but the problems persisted. Finally, we went to Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. Initially, after many tests over a period of 3-4 days, they told us my sweet hubby most likely had mild cognitive impairment with a high probability of Lewy Body Dementia. (We were shattered and at the same time thankful for an answer - even though it was one we didn't want.) In time, as more symptoms appeared, the Lewy Body became the official diagnosis- and our hearts were relieved and broken at the same time. Now, four years later, I know they are right.
What I want you and others to realize, is that even with many doctors from many specialties and all sorts of costly tests, some of these diagnoses are hiding and just waiting to magnify themselves at an unknown time. I feel like you will get the answer you need in time - and you will be both relieved and possibly sad.
If I were you, I would look at my bucket list and try to make some of those things happen and try to stay focused on what I can do now. Take a break from doctors and tests if you can. And, if you have not been to Mayo Clinic, you might want to give that a lot of thought. We will always be grateful for the help they have given us over the years. They have access to doctors and research from all over the world....even now, when my hubby can no longer travel, the team of professionals continues to support us with encouragement, knowledge and compassion. Please let me know how I can help. My heart senses your fear and your frustration- and hopes the best for you in your life.

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Replies to "Like you, we had many diagnoses over several years, many doctors, many meds, many ideas -but..."

@teacher502 Thank you for sharing this excellent advice! Getting a diagnosis for one’s issues is such a frustrating experience. We all present in different ways especially while it’s early. While the journey may have similarities it will also have differences. My diagnosis was Aug 11, and it has brought me some peace for my “odd” symptoms. I cannot say it was a complete surprise, as my uncle had Parkinson’s, and my dad had Alzheimer’s; but it did take me a week or two to adjust and develop an actionable plan. I have prioritized a break from being poked, tested and doing any more research. I had already arranged most of my EOL stuff, so I am finally free to take a long needed vacation from EVERYTHING! I realize how fortunate I am to be able to do this. I don’t sweat the small stuff ( like the also recently diagnosed indolent lymphoma and ascending thoracic aneurysm). Friends tell me I have my smile back! I laugh a lot and am back to enjoying this beautiful world around us. Are there bad days? of course. But I am very grateful for what this experience has taught me. Today the sun is out, and I can hear the neighbors toddler giggling, it’s a good day!

@teacher502 Your response is so spot on. I am in the medical field and a gerontologist. Medicine is far from perfect. When dealing with brain disorders, the brain is so complex, getting the correct diagnosis is VERY difficult and is very often a process of elimination over time.

You have excellent, intelligent advice. God bless you.