Parkinson’s itself is a progressive disease, so some worsening of symptoms over time is to be expected. However, there are definitely certain symptoms or side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately. Here are some key areas to watch for:

Urgent Symptoms:

  • Sudden worsening of movement symptoms: A significant increase in tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, or difficulty walking could indicate a need for medication adjustments or a different approach to managing your Parkinson’s.
  • Falls: A fall, especially if it results in an injury, should be reported to your doctor right away. They can assess your fall risk and recommend strategies to prevent future falls.
  • Changes in thinking or behavior: Confusion, hallucinations, or sudden difficulty concentrating can be signs of complications or medication side effects. Report these promptly.
  • Severe pain: While some muscle stiffness or aches can be common with Parkinson’s, sudden or severe pain is not typical. Let your doctor know if you experience this.
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing: These can be serious complications and require immediate medical attention.

Medication Side Effects:

  • Dyskinesias: These are involuntary movements that can be a side effect of levodopa, a common Parkinson’s medication. If they become troublesome, talk to your doctor about possible adjustments.
  • “On-off” episodes: These occur when levodopa’s effects wear off, leading to a return of symptoms. If these become unpredictable or disruptive, discuss it with your doctor.
  • Confusion or hallucinations: These can be side effects of some Parkinson’s medications. Report any changes in mental clarity or unusual experiences.
  • Excessive drowsiness: Feeling excessively sleepy during the day can be a medication side effect. Let your doctor know if this is impacting your daily life.

Remember: This is not an exhaustive list, and it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you experience any new or concerning symptoms or side effects, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or Parkinson’s nurse right away.

Here are some trustworthy resources you can explore for more details on symptoms to report:

By staying informed and communicating openly with your healthcare team, you can manage your Parkinson’s effectively and maintain a good quality of life.

 

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