A Guide for Patients Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive brain disorder which typically appears around or after the age of 60, though 5-10% of patients experience it before the age of 50. Symptoms include shaking, stiffness, and challenges with balance and coordination.

Being newly diagnosed with this condition can be overwhelming. While it may put an end to wondering about strange symptoms you’ve been experiencing, it also means you’ll need to learn about coping with a lifelong illness. Here’s some basic information to guide you through this pivotal stage.

Understand the Nature of Parkinson’s Disease

It can be alarming to be newly diagnosed with PD, or any disease for which there is no cure. Yet, although PD doesn’t currently have a cure, there are many different treatments and therapies to help you manage your symptoms. There is also ongoing research being performed by experts across the globe to develop new treatments, and researchers have already come to develop a better understanding of the condition. Moreover, everyone’s PD progresses differently, so someone else’s symptoms could be far different from your own.

Consider Lifestyle Changes

Living with PD will require some lifestyle modifications, but that doesn’t mean you’ll need to stop doing the things you enjoy. Many people continue to drive safely for a long time after their diagnosis. Taking an assessment with DMV can help you determine if your symptoms and side effects from any medications are mild enough to avoid interfering with roadway safety. You can also continue working to your comfort level.

Research indicates exercise is particularly beneficial to people with PD, as it can help slow the progression of symptoms and help manage them. Different types of exercise are recommended for the various stages; for instance, newly diagnosed people can benefit most from vigorous exercise, while people with progressing symptoms can focus on workouts that target symptoms, such as classes designed for people with PD.

Seek Support

Navigating the different stages of PD, including being newly diagnosed, will be easier with a strong support system. The Parkinson’s Foundation has compiled a list of resources, including a helpline, webinars, and online community to help you learn and find support.

Many have sought out alternative options such as regenerative medicine, also known as, stem cell therapy. Stem cells are considered the building blocks of life, as they have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into specialized cell types.

This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine, also known as Stem Cell Therapy in Tampa. Regenerative medicine seeks to replace tissue or organs that have been damaged by disease, trauma, or congenital issues.