Parkinsons: not just a tremor

Parkinsons Disease has taken over my day to day life. I believe when people think of Parkinsons the image that comes to mind is a tremor in the hand. Granted, a tremor is usually the first sign of PD. But, it can be so much more. Keep in mind PD affects everyone differently.

I take three different meds four times daily to help control the symptoms. Unfortunately the meds don't always have the desired effects. Enter what's called "off" time, which is the time when the meds are not medicating. During "off" time simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt, handwriting, cutting food, brushing teeth or typing this report can be extremely frustrating if not tortuous. The off time is usually upridictable. Some of you may have seen MJF, on the telly wrthing and trembling uncontrollaby. That is usually an indication that he is not taking his meds in a timely manner or he's not taking them at all. These symptoms are compounded especially when we are nervous or distressed. Adversely, "on" time is when everything is working as close to normal. Again, "on" time is usually unpredictable but much appreciated.

One should establish a schedule for taking their meds and try to take them as close to the appointed time as possible so your body will adjust to the correct time.