Q: Dr. Wagner, I remember when I walked into your office several years ago and thought my diagnosis was a death sentence. Obviously, it isn’t. What are five things that you would like new patients to know about Parkinson’s disease?
Dr Wagner: You’re certainly not alone. Most everyone who discovers he or she has Parkinson’s automatically thinks of the worst case scenario. Here is my list of five things I would like patients to know when they walk into my office for the first time:
- Parkinson’s disease is certainly treatable and most new patients respond very nicely to medication.
- A person with Parkinson’s disesae has the same life expectancy as a normal person.
- New patients usually go through a “honeymoon period” where treatment will control symptoms so well that you won’t even notice the effects of the disease. As the disease progresses, symptoms may be more noticeable.
- Once you are diagnosed, start making accommodations for yourself, particularly at home. People with PD have a tendency to fall frequently so avoid situations where falls may occur.
- Don’t be shy about asking your neurologist questions; don’t rely on the Internet for accuracy!
Q: How do you stay current on Parkinson’s disease issues?
Dr Wagner: I make a point of attending seminars on a regular basis. I also receive neurology updates from Oakstone Medical (American Academy Neurology) as well as read the latest textbooks on Parkinson’s.
Stay tuned to Parkinson’s hopeDIGEST for a continuation of “Ask the Neurologist” Series.