Hello John. Welcome to the wacky world of PD. When I first started taking meds for PD my neuro tried me on a spectrum of agonists. All they did was cause me to experience hallucinations, (people in the garden, etc.) It was intriguing and entertaining... but not healthy.
Everyone reacts differently... I finally got some good results, with minimum side effects, when I started taking Sinemet CR. Most neuros and experienced patients believe Sinemet to be the "gold standard" against which all other PD medications are compared.
There is some indication that each patient will experience a particular finite time period in which Sinemet is fully effective. The longer you use it the less effective it becomes. It therefor follows that the earlier in life you start using it the younger the age at which you'll wear out the effectiveness of Sinemet. The life span of Sinemet's effectiveness varies significantly from PWP to PWP (Person With Parkinsons).
A good neuro will make him/herself available by phone or email to answer questions as they arise... For many PWPs, anxiety and depression are both side effects that can mess up your quality of life. Be patient. time will tell what your particular needs and responses may be. You may have to go through a few meds and dosages to find out what works for you
Welcome to the finest list of people you can hope to join to encourage and aid you as your experience with PD builds.
ATB, Bill DX 1998
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-----Original Message-----
From: Parkinson's Information Exchange Network [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Kristin Woestehoff
Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2009 10:52 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: intro from listserv newbie with a general question
Welcome, John. Sorry you ended up here. I know exactly how you feel! I was also diagnosed at 50 or maybe 49--I am 51 now, and still mild. I read a book about young onset parkinsons...wish I could remember the name, it was written by someone who started this list. It was nice to see I wasn't the only one!
I am sure the more experienced 'parkies' can better address the med issue. I know the docs drag their feet about sinemet in someone our age. But the other drugs not so much. I don't think the PD drugs make the disease worse, so if they help your symptoms/help you to function, go for it. If the side effects are worse than the disease....then don't. I am on Azilect, myself and do think it helps my coordination. Not 100% but I don't think anything is. My doc says maybe it will even slow progression. Not likely, but one can hope. She also prescribed amantadine for my stiffness but I have not started it yet...
I am hearing over and over--exercise and good nutrition! Since the disease is oxidative damage, I am trying to eat alot of natural antioxidants. If it does not help my PD< should help something!
I find when ever I get down about the prospects, I see someone worse off than me (parapalegic, chronic migraines, whatever) and I think, maybe I am not so unlucky...we all have our crosses to bear, this just happens to be ours...
Good luck and welcome to the group.
Kristin
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From: John Bianchi <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Wednesday, January 7, 2009 1:03:23 PM
Subject: intro from listserv newbie with a general question
Hello all.
My name is John and I was recently diagnosed with onset PD at the age of 50..
My symptons are currently minor (slight arm tremor during night, limited motion in a few fingers on left hand, loss of left arm swing while walking).
I am coming out of the shock/denial stage and currently trying to educate myself on my new "life-partner".
I have read several books recommended by the doctors and looked at several websites (including viartis.net/parkinsons). Any general recommendations ?
My doctor would like me to start on a low-dose agonist (Mirapex) regime but after all I have read I am apprehensive about starting any drugs ( I am somewhat scared of the side-effects and Viartis's implications that some of these drugs may make things worse in the long run)
Am I overreacting ? Any tips on pitfalls to avoid along this route?
thank you all for your patience and consideration
Peace to you all.
John
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