David,
My first noticeable symptom was a shaking hand, 4 1/2 years ago, at
age 45. When I went to my family doctor, he remarked - you have symptoms
of Parkinson's Disease, but I've never seen it in a patient so young.
Over the years on this list, we've read of similar experiences of many
others who were told by doctors that they were too young to have PD. Many
have been initially misdiagnosed and treated for other conditions - MS,
anxiety, arthritis, stress, carpal tunnel syndrome etc. And in spite of
all the publicity from Michael J. Fox's advocacy -- this seems to be
continuing.
In my case, I was referred to a general neurologist who said - he
"thought" I might have PD, and could try taking medication for it - if it
worked then he could be more certain of the diagnosis. Unfortunately at
the present time - there is no readily available, affordable diagnostic
test for PD - the MRI will only rule out other conditions. I eventually
found a movement disorder specialist who was able to give me a definite
diagnosis and a more comprehensive therapy plan - meds, vitamins and
physical therapy for the symptoms . He also told me to learn as much as I
could about the disease.
I hope your symptoms are caused by something other than PD. If you do
suspect it though - the National Parkinson's Foundation site is very
informative, as Charles Murray wrote. The American Parkinson's Disease
Association also has a Young Onset Information and Referral Center, and
they are very helpful too. They are at (800) 223-9776 or e-mail:
[log in to unmask]
They also have a website: http://members.aol.com/apdaypd
There are also very helpful online articles on young onset PD by Emma
Bennion, chairperson of YAPP&Rs in the UK at:
http://62.232.96.142/lwp/LWP13.HTM#Young onset
Good luck to you,
Linda
