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Welcome to the list, Rhonda. I, too, was diagnosed at 47(NOV 3, 97) and was started on SinemetCR by the neurologist who I'd seen previously for migraines. He said, "I think you might have Parkinson's but at 47 you're too young." To learn more about me my webring page is at <http://www.newcountry.nu/pd/members/auntie1.htm> thanks to the technical help of webmaster, Jerry Finch a fellow pwp(person with Parkinson's). The PIENetwork (the list) is a great place to ask ??? and find advice and support from pwp/caregivers/pharmacist/nutritionist/doctor(some who have pd) and alot of information which is vital as a patient to know. Sincerely, Jeanette Fuhr 49-age now/47-age dx/44? age symptoms began ---------- From: Rhonda <[log in to unmask]> To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Date: Thursday, October 14, 1999 2:33 PM Hi. This is my first communication as a new member of this list or any internet exchange. I am 47 years old and was diagnosed with Parkinson's about one year ago, after two years of uncertain diagnoses of multiple sclerosis and primary lateral sclerosis. I have no tremor, and the symptoms of Parkinson's--muscle rigidity, balance problems, slow movement, etc.--currently affect the left side of my body more than the right. I presently use Sinemet 25/100 five times daily in combination (within the last few months) with 1 gram Mirapex three times daily. I'm not yet sure what effect, if any, the Mirapex provides, although the effect of the Sinemet is certainly dramatic. Unfortunately, I have developed "variable response" syndrome with respect to the Sinemet. My current physician, a neurologist whose subspecialty is Parkinson's) tells me that it would have been preferable not to have begun my treatment with Sinemet because of the possibility of developing this very syndrome--hence the experiment with Mirapex. (The Sinemet was originally prescribed by my current doctor's colleague, a well-respected neurologist whose subspecialty is multiple sclerosis.) I am a lawyer whose focus is civil litigation. In order to function during the day, I find that I need to use the Sinemet at no less than 3.5 hour intervals, which means significantly less function at night. I also find that I need to rest for about 30 minutes before each dose of Sinemet, which can be problematic. All of this makes professional life difficult. It is also a nuisance at home, where evenings are usually devoted to activities with my husband. Any thoughts for a newcomer about managing what must be a familiar scenario to most of you? Sorry for the long initial message and thanks in advance for your time. Rhonda