 |
 |
Greetings, Your husband's diagnoses sounds similar to my situation in some ways. I've inserted my comments within your message. Linda S. Breedlove wrote: > My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's at the age of 46 also; that was > 3 years ago. I was diagnosed about 18 years ago at age 38. Some symptoms (ie: muscle and joint pain, loss of dexterity, stiffness) were present for several years prior. > ...as he does not (and did not) exhibit tremors at all; also, unlike many >PD patients, he actually is in a great deal of muscle/joint pain... A tremor in my left hand (I'm lefthanded) is what sent me to the neurologist who diagnosed PD. It has been fairly well controlled with Sinemet, until recently. But, I too have a lot of general body aches and pains. I was told by several doctors that it was not PD related and was most likely arthritis. In the last year, I've been to a rheaumatologist several times thinking my problem may be fibromyalgia. He couldn't confirm that or any other arthritic condition that would cause the pain and aching. I believe the pain is PD related. Probably due to the stiffness and rigidity working against the normal interaction of muscles. One thing I have noticed is that I can predict changes in the weather. When it's raining, or about to, the aching becomes worse. Sometimes so bad I could cry and nothing seems to give much relief. >I sometimes wonder if he hasn't been misdiagnosed. I've wondered the same thing from time to time over the last 18 years. But, they have to call it something and PD seems to fit best. I was just evaluated, again, by another neurologist a week ago. And while I don't fit all of the "classic" PD symptoms, he, too, feels I do have PD. >It's not that I'm trying to "bury my head in the sand", as I realize there >could be much worse diagnoses/disorders; You are right, it could be much worse. I recall when I was diagnosed I went to the library for information on PD. One book called PD a "friendly" disease. In comparison with many diseases, that is true. However, I've come to realize it is also very "unhandy". Your husband is fortunate that he is able to remain active and continue to work. One of the toughest things I faced, as a husband and father, was not being able to continue to work and provide for my family. It is still a problem I struggle with, although I have found, and continuously look for, ways to be somewhat productive. Believe me, there is life after, and with, PD. You just have to learn to roll with the punches....and find ways to counterpunch! I hope my experience may be of some help and encouragement to you and your husband. Best regards, Gaylon