Living with Parkinson's

I was diagnosed with Parkinson's in July of 2004. I was put into a sort of daze when I was told that I indeed was suffering the effects of Parkinson's. I had been aware of symptoms for about a year and a half prior to my actually having it checked, and somehow, I knew it was going to be Parkinson's, but told myself it could not be. I was too young and too healthy.

But the fact was, I had Parkinson's, and now I had to put the shock and dis belief aside, and find out how to deal with this problem. I began reading and speaking with everyone that I could that dealt with Parkinson's. I was seeking as much understanding of just what I was going to be facing as I possibly could. It was both scary and hopeful at the same time. Much of the information I found really only explained worse case scenarios. The worse symptoms and effects were the most common explanations I found.

Through trail and error, I slowly developed some basic points that I could focus on to make dealing and living with Parkinson's easier. Those steps are as follows:

Understand that speaking can become difficult. Often, in the early stages of Parkinson's, the voice is effected early on. In my case, speech and swallowing were some of my earliest symptoms. Your voice may become softer and harder to hear. You may find it difficult to properly say the words due to slurring or difficultly in forming the words because your tongue, mouth and throat muscles just do not work like they should. Don't be alarmed. I can tell you it certainly is frustrating, but with effort, you can improve your speaking.

Practice speaking by reading to yourself aloud. Also, find a speech therapist. That can provide focused exercises for your speaking. Once you get them, Use Them. Granted, I know it can be embarrassing and frustrating but if you do not do the exercises, you cannot fight off the effects.

Find a good physical therapist and work with them. Parkinson's affects your motor control, starting with your fine motor control. You will find that things you have taken for granted, simple things such as dressing, writing, using keys are becoming more difficult. A good physical therapist can provide exercises that will allow you to maintain muscle function and use longer. Stiffness becomes a problem, exercise helps fight off this stiffness. Just as with the speech therapy, once you get the exercises, DO THEM.

Next, Stay Active. Just because you have Parkinson's, do not stop being active. Stay as active as you can. The longer you stay active, the more you slow the progression. You may find that you tire a bit sooner, but keep active. Do not stop doing what you normally do.

Talk with a dietician and begin eating right. This was hard for me, but well worth it. You will need more fiber in your diet and a well balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Depending on other conditions which a dietician can help you determine, you may be able to further fight the effects of Parkinson's with a higher carb diet. A dietician is a very important member of the team you need to assemble in your fight.

Be aware that balance will become a problem as Parkinson's progresses. Tripping hazards are a problem. Start by removing cords, rugs furniture and any other potential obstacles early. Hard rails are another feature you may want to consider, especially in and around stairs, bathtubs and toilets. Good sturdy walking shoes with rubber soles are something you want to get. Be sure they have good support, and are well built. Later, you may want to be sure they are easy to get on and off, maybe even good slip on or have Velcro closures.

Find a local support group. It is a difficult and sometimes terrifying challenge we face. Having someone to talk to that has, or is going through the same experiences can be a great outlet. Being able to talk about it is extremely helpful. Not feeling alone is comforting to say the least.

Along the same lines, talk with your family and have them find a support group as well. They are in this with you and can be every bit as overwhelmed and scared as we are.

These are my suggestions, suggestions that I have found to help me in my fight and hopefully they can help you as well.