Guidance from FirstLight Home Care and Brian Epstein on recognizing, and caring for, Parkinson’s disease
In the U.S. nearly one million people are living with Parkinson’s disease, with 60,000 new cases diagnosed each year. If you’re concerned about a loved one who’s showing potential signs of Parkinson’s, here is information to assist in understanding Parkinson’s disease and providing proper care and planning. Brian Epstien, president and CEO of FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania-Perrysburg, has personally assisted his grandparents, friends and clients within the realm of home care services. He provides some insights here.
Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
Tremors are one of the most widely recognized signs of Parkinson’s disease. However, up to 30% of patients don’t experience them at the onset of the disease, as tremors often come later, when the condition has progressed. This progression is different for each individual and can include symptoms such as:
- Small handwriting. Individuals with Parkinson’s disease often experience a condition called “micrographia,” abnormally small, cramped handwriting.
- Loss of smell. Loss of smell can be an early warning sign of Parkinson’s disease.
- A hard time sleeping. Everyone has problems sleeping at one time or another. However, if a loved one is suddenly thrashing around in their sleep or acting out dreams, it could be an indicator of Parkinson’s.
- A low or soft voice. If your loved one has a sudden change in their tone of voice or they sound hoarse, talk to a doctor about Parkinson’s disease. Tremors, stiffness and slow movement can impact the muscles used for speaking and swallowing.
- Problems with mobility. If you notice your loved one isn’t swinging their arms when walking or seems unusually stiff, particularly in the shoulders or hips, that can be a red flag.
- Stooping or hunching. If your loved one is suddenly not standing up straight or only feels comfortable stooping or slouching, it could be a symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
- Dizziness or fainting. Feeling dizzy when standing up or getting out of bed can be a warning sign of low blood pressure that is linked to Parkinson’s.
- Facial masking. If your loved one’s facial expression is mad, sad or angry, without them realizing it, they’re displaying “facial masking,” caused by stiffness in the facial muscles, making it difficult to smile or express emotions.
Questions to Ask a Doctor About Parkinson’s Disease
If you’re noticing several of the early signs described here, it’s time to call the doctor to request an evaluation. While there isn’t a single test to diagnose Parkinson’s, by assessing symptoms and conducting a range of diagnostic tests, a doctor will be able to make an accurate diagnosis. If your loved one is diagnosed, stay positive. They can still live a full life, and many people do, with limited symptoms. You’ll need to work with a healthcare provider to find the right mix of medications and complementary therapies.
Some additional questions to ask your loved one’s care provider:
- What are the options for treatments? What are the pros and cons of each? What do you recommend?
- What are the side effects of medications? What can minimize those side effects?
- Are there any clinical trials to participate in?
- What lifestyle modifications can be made to help, including diet, supplements and exercise?
- Is there anything to avoid in terms of over-the-counter drugs, supplements or food?
- What support groups are there for those with Parkinson’s disease and their families?
How to Care for Your Loved One with Parkinson’s Disease
There are many ways you can help your loved one with Parkinson’s disease. The first includes ensuring they have access to the right team of medical professionals. This “team” can include a mix of nutritionists, internists, physical therapists and movement disorder specialists. While there is no one standard treatment, your loved one’s care team can create a personalized protocol.
FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania-Perrysburg
5749 Park Center Ct, Toledo, OH 43615
(419) 517-4616
