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Newly diagnosed with Parkinson
Parkinson's Disease | Last Active: Aug 30, 2018 | Replies (52)Comment receiving replies
Hello, @oronogo, and welcome to Mayo Connect!
I am sorry to hear that a Parkinson's (PD) diagnosis (DX) is what brought you to us, but there are many of us who have a PD DX and we know how difficult it is to accept and deal with. I am glad that you are getting a second opinion at Mayo. We strongly believe in second opinions. There might be those in our group who have been to Mayo Clinic and perhaps they will respond to your post with their experiences soon. As you know, Mayo Connect is an online community and we are from all over the country (and world).
You mentioned that your diagnosis came about with tremors in your hands. Have you had other symptoms such as balance problems, unsteadiness of gait, stiffness, drooling, etc.?
Here are some links to basic information about PD, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20376055 and http://www.parkinson.org/. As you read them, you will find valuable information in understanding PD's symptoms and treatments.
All of us in the PD discussion group look forward to getting to know you, I would like to invite some other members into this conversation, @ggopher and @mariemarie. I'm sure that they will join me in welcoming you to our group.
Teresa
Replies to "Hello, @oronogo, and welcome to Mayo Connect! I am sorry to hear that a Parkinson's (PD)..."
I started the meds because my gait/balance problems were beginning to cause falls (or near-falls). i wanted to avoid breaking a bone (I have bone loss problems as well) so I thought the PD meds were in my best interest. My symptoms showed immediate improvement. After I started the PD meds, I told my neurologist that it was like there was a new connection between my brain and my lower extremities - a great improvement!
Taking meds is certainly an individualized decision, though. Have you considered Physical Therapy?
Will you keep in touch and let us know how you are doing?
Wishing you well!
Teresa
Yesterday I had an over and hour appt with my PC. She is the BEST. All my doctors are in the Texas Medical School system. I chose this because of my RA. I wanted someone who UNDERSTANDS the symptoms and refers me to the appropriate doctor for further treatment. I recently noticed I had a tremor in my hands ad in particular my left hand. She said it could be my Blood Pressure Pill which the Caritologist reduced because my BP was so low all the time. She asked me to increase the pill to original dose. Has anyone ever been told their tremors are from a drug you are taking? I was happy that it was so simple as my friend had Parkinson and it eventually, cause his brain to function less than 100 %.
Hello @oronogo
It has been awhile since you last posted. How are you managing the PD symptoms? Have you started any meds yet?
I would enjoy hearing from you.
Teresa
Hello Teresa
I’m sorry it’s been so long to get back with you. I did get accepted into Mayo in April I seen a movement neurologist. I only have a tremor in my right hand, he said they Don’t like to DX PD with one system. He didn’t start any meds, and said he was willing to work with dr at home. He said exercise walk keep moving and come back in a year. So I’m taking it one day at a time.
Jane
@oronogo Hello Jane
It is so good to hear from you. Yes, exercise is great for PD (no matter what stage of PD you are at). Tai-Chi, walking, PD Dance, Pedaling for Parkinson's are all good. YMCAs often have the Pedaling programs. While I've never went to a pedaling class before, one of our members, @mariemarie, has attended many and perhaps she will post about her progress.
PD Dance is my personal favorite because of the music and group class. You can almost forget you are exercising - which is nice.
I hope that all continues to go well for you. I would enjoy hearing about your progress from time to time. Will you continue to post?
Teresa
I will check with my Y but I live in a rural area and have not found any Parkinson group yet. I will keep you posted.
Jane
Jane, pedaling for Parkinson is great. I attend 3 days a week. Bike 45 to 60 minutes a session with 15 minutes of strength training. I currently pedal 7.5 miles in 40 minutes. I did try boxing Rock Steady but did not care for it; however, the fitness center where i attend pedaling started Rock Steady . Tried it again and really like it. So i box one day a week also. I feel 100 percent better than i did a year ago. I'm on the neupro patch for medication. No side effects.
Hello @mariemarie, Thanks for that testimonial regarding Pedaling for PD as well as the Rock Steady Boxing. I'm glad that you found the Boxing class close by.
Here are some websites about the Pedaling program, https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/775121 and
http://www.pedalingforparkinsons.org/home
@oronogo, if you can't find the program at a Y near you and if you have a stationary exercise bike you might try it at home. Of course, check with your doctor first before beginning.
Teresa
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Thank you for the reply. I have had some balance and stiffness, but it’s not bad. I do exercise and walk. My concern is that I haven’t started any medication, but some of the articles say they haven’t started meds yet. I don’t want to start meds, but my local dr led me to believe that meds will keep it from progressing as fast. My father had PD when he was older.