Dear Jack and Jean, Good morning. I, like so many
of us, am a young onset PWP (person with Parkinson's). My primary physician at
first thought that my tremors were side effects of medication I was taking for
another condition. Once that was gradually ruled out and the tremors continued
as well as increased and spread, he thought the possibility of Essential Tremor
Disorder. Once that was ruled out, he thought that perhaps it could be PD, but
was not settled with his own view and so it is then I went to a movement
specialist who confirmed it as PD. I was explained to (by my primary) that he
only sees about two to three cases of PD per year (that he is aware of) and that
I was one of the first with young onset. He has been learning along with me and
has done much research in the area himself now as to be able to sit and talk to
me about this. My questions were multiple and challenging to him (especially
since I found this fine page) and so he wants to be prepared. Not only for me,
but for the next person. Try not to pre-judge the ignorance or lack of
experience of your primary care physician. Usually it is not something they deal
with daily. They are so overwhelmed these days with patients of so many needs,
that they don't always have the opportunity to focus in on all posible
disorders. Most qualified physicians will opt to investigate areas they are not
up on them selves once they realize the lack in their knowledge on any disease.
If they don't, find another primary. Good luck... stay informed, join a support
group and be prepared for medication changes (especially at the beginning).
Young Onset is more difficult to spot and diagnose, more difficult to treat and
more difficult to cope with. It means so many more challenges for YOPD then with
those in their 70's and 80's (with due respect to all who have it at this age).
Welcome to the page.....Kathie and Dave
