On Tue 08 Jun, Kathryn Saupp wrote:
> My message was a reply about sinemet and diagnosis. I know I have PD. I
> think new people should know that sinemet is not a cure, but a treatment; so
> they can plan accordingly for some suitable future as a PWP.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Brian Collins <[log in to unmask]>;
> [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
> To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
> Date: Monday, June 07, 1999 10:05 PM
> Subject: Re: Sinemet and diagnosis
>
>
> >On Sun 06 Jun, Kathryn Saupp wrote:
> >> After exasperating tests etc. I too was put on sinemet right away.
> >> Basically I was of the opinion if sinemet "fixed" it; it was Parkinson's
> and
> >> that sinemet doesn't fix anything else. After 2 weeks on sinemet most of
> my
> >> symptoms disappears. After about 2 years the dyskinesias began. I've
> read
> >> sinemet doesn't fix all kinds of PD, but does sinemet have any effect on
> >> someone not PWP?
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >Hello Kathryn, I am puzzled by your Question: You have told us about a
> classic
> >test where you proved that you have PD. Then you tell us that after 2 years
> >on Sinemet , you started getting dyskinesias. Your question seems to
> suggest
> >that you are hoping that this means that you have not got PD.
> >
> >The following points come to mind:
> > 1/ You still have PD
> > 2/ If you are getting Dyskinesias after only 2 years, you are taking far
> >too much Sinemet. cut it back unil you get some tremor, and take it from
> >there.
> >
> >Regards,
> >
> >--
> >Brian Collins <[log in to unmask]>
>
>
>
Hello Kathryn,
When I look back on what I wrote in my previous e-mail, it
looks rather sharp ! I didn't intend to be rude, so I hope you are not upset..
In answer to your question, Sinemet has virtually no effect on a non-pwp
(Maybe a slight headache.) the reason is that the brain can 'throttle back'
its own production to accomodate the lump of levodopa resulting from the
tablet.
Of course, Neurologists , particularly those specialising in movement
disorders use many clues to aid their diagnosis, but they often still get
it wrong, mainly for two reasons: a) Almost every PWP displays unique
symptoms - there is no 'standard PWP' to look for. b)In the early stages
The symptoms are quite mild, and the PWP often tries to make it go away by
'Mind Power' (Without success of course)
--
Brian Collins <[log in to unmask]>
