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Essential tremor vs Parkinsons?

Posted by kjaffee @kjaffee, Dec 29, 2023

Over the last several years I have developed jaw tremors, my hand tremors have worsened. My left shoulder shakes and I stutter with the jaw tremor. I am exhausted. Balance is not good. Having my annual Medicare exam after falling twice. What questions should I ask my primary doctor?

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anitaxblack339 | @anitaxblack339 | Jul 31, 2024
In reply to @anitaxblack339 "I still wanna die" + (show)
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I still wanna die

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Thank yu

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Teresa, Volunteer Mentor | @hopeful33250 | Aug 2, 2024
In reply to @anitaxblack339 "I Have Parkinson’s and I don’t know what to do" + (show)
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I Have Parkinson’s and I don’t know what to do

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Hello @anitaxblack339

What does your doctor say about the Parkinson's diagnosis. Has the doctor prescribed any medications? Often, starting with Carbidopa/Levodopa can help.

When I was first diagnosed my symptoms included balance problems and foot dragging. What are your most difficult symptoms right now?

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ichbindck | @ichbindck | May 22 8:46am

I am 82 year old male recently diagnosed with Parkinsonian cause of constant dizziness, chronic back pain and hand tremors. 1. I had a PET scan for possible cancer recently. Would it show deteriation of substantia nigra?
2. I am having a red light laser treatment on back of my neck to enhance dopamine production. Is there any research supporting this treatment?

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yas2min | @yas2min | May 30 1:22pm
In reply to @lagiaconda "Hi anitaxblack339, I empathize with you since neither my (former) neurologist nor my Movement Disorder Specialist..." + (show)
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Hi anitaxblack339,
I empathize with you since neither my (former) neurologist nor my Movement Disorder Specialist provided me with ANY information about PD other than a diagnosis. My survival instinct kicked in immediately and I began online research for several months. You must advocate for yourself and learn as much as possible about PD - ask your doctor(s) for information too. It's a complex disease that you must manage yourself and it manifests differently for everyone. My current neurologist is a die-hard scientist and doesn't believe in any treatment that hasn't been proven. I accept his education and expertise, but I search beyond his narrow view. I've found too much useful information to list here, unless you'd like it. For starters, exercise is very important! On YouTube you can find many quality exercise programs geared for those with PD. I take Tai Chi, Chair Yoga and Water Aerobics. BTW, I was diagnosed with PD March 4 and I don't take medications (yet).

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@lagiaconda do u mind mentioning your doctor? I also want a sincere doctor who cares to not prescribe medicines just for the sake of it.

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