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Problems with fatique and the aching you describe aching plagues many people with Parkinson's. Aching is often due to the rigidity of the muscles. Adding factors such as arthritis may cause additional pain, but arthritis pain is typically in the joints, not muscles. Double whammy! Regular streching and toning exercises may help in reducing the aching. Keeping the muscles at their optimum flexibility and tone are a must. The fatigue is a symptom of the Parkinson's itself and can sometimes become exacerbated by the medications. Trying to maintain a regular sleep cycle is important, but difficult for many. Taking rest periods throughout the day may help. Also, many people with Parkinson's tend to over-do it during times when they are feeling good and having "on-time". Doing too many things during an on-time may lead to increased fatigue later on. It's better to set a few realistic goals of things to accomplish. Again, regular exercise (exercise seems to be my soapbox issue) may help in reducing fatigue. Date: Wed, 26 Aug 1998 18:27:24 EDT From: Jane Malik <[log in to unmask]> Subject: Newcomer My name is Jane. My dad, Bob, was diagnosed as having Parkinson's almost two years ago (he's now 72). He is in early stages--has had tremors for a few years, but his earlier doctor did not suspect PD. My dad's biggest problem right now is feeling fatigued and he would like to know what others are doing to help that probable PD symptom. He also gets "aching" legs (not leg cramps), but wonders if that has to do with arthritis (which he has been diagnosed as having). He is currently not taking any PD medication. He was taking low dosages of Selegeline for a few months along with a tranquilizer (I don't have the name with me) to counteract the amphetamine effect. He was happy with the mix of meds for a while, but eventually the amphetamine effect gained on him and became very agitated and tense (even when he tried taking an even lower dose. Since May, I think, he (with his doctor's okay) has decided to hold off on the meds as long as he can and hopes that when he does resume taking them that the options will have expanded and there will be one that doesn't cause the amphetamine effect. He would like to know from people on this list who are currently taking Requip how they like it, what are drawbacks--any first hand information on Requip would be appreciated. I have just this week subscribed to this list. Unfortunately, I will need to "unsubscribe" temporarily as of August 28th as we will be gone for a month. I am happy to know that this list exists.