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What is it Like To Have Parkinson's Disease?

Living with a degenerative, chronic disease is not easy. The disease can have multiple symptoms and does not present itself in the same in those who have the disease. In one person the disease may come on slowly over years. In another the disease may progress quickly. One person may have tremors as the major symptom for the disease and for another person the major symptom may be unstable balance and uncoordinated walking. One person may have onset of Parkinson's at age 55 and another at age 70. The disease will eventually make it difficult to do daily tasks and by the time individuals have had Parkinson's for 20 years they are either in an assisted living situation or they have died. In the end most of those with Parkinson's will develop cognitive issues such as confusion, loss of ability to be organized, or being forgetful.

When the symptoms first cause the individual to seek a diagnosis, they may have to endure many tests including x-rays and brain scans, blood tests and other laboratory tests in order to rule out other conditions because there is no laboratory test to take that will diagnose Parkinson's disease.

Individuals with Parkinson's will lose not only control over movements but over their sense of smell, and cognitive abilities. The disease will rob you of not only your physical abilities, but the loss of cognitive abilities too.

There are mechanical aids to help with balance such as quad-canes or straight canes.

A high-fiber diet and consuming adequate amounts of food can help with the symptom of constipation. Ask your doctor about taking psllium or stool softeners to help you regulate your bowel movements. Make sure you are increasing your fluids when exercising or when the weather is hot. If you are older than 65 or for other reasons are not able to tolerate large amounts of raw fruit and vegetables, try eating dried fruits, prune juice, canned fruits, and soft cooked vegetables. Never rush to introduce fiber to your diet, increase the amount of fiber slowly. If you start off eating too much fiber all at once, you will risk stomach cramps, and excess gas. Whenever you take bran, remember to drink plenty of water. It is also important to have regular exercise to avoid constipation.

Most individuals will have improved symptoms when they take prescribed medications.

It is important to continue your daily activities as long as possible. It is important to remain mobile and active as much as possible. If you are able to do something don't limit yourself or restrict your activities. Physical conditioning can be maintained or even reestablished when you exercise on a regular basis or participate in physical therapy. Even walking for a minimum of 30 minutes a day can be beneficial. Start out with a short walk and work up to 30 minutes daily. If you are having difficulty with balance or you feel that it may be unsafe to do certain exercises seek the advise of your doctor or a rehabilitation specialist, or physical therapist.

There are many professionals who are able to assist in maintaining an active and functional lifestyle for as long as possible. Professionals such as your medical doctor and staff, a rehabilitation specialist, the physical therapist, occupational therapist, and your speech therapist.