We all have unresolved fears and concerns about our condition. If left unaddressed, they can be overwhelming, immobilizing, and draining. We recently polled our support group of people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers about their fears—and they identified 10. We have divided them into three areas: fear of physical symptoms, which we cover in this post, and fear of cognitive decline and other concerns, which we cover in upcoming posts.
Balance, Freezing, and Falling
Incontinence, Constipation, and Urinary Tract Infections
Swallowing Difficulties
Research shows that acknowledging, sharing, and developing a plan for resolving fears can mitigate or eliminate them. First steps include assembling a medical team, educating yourself about your disease, exercising, staying mentally active and engaged, remaining positive, and maintaining social networks and friendships.
Our group took a closer look at three fears related to physical problems and crafted additional suggestions.
Fear: Poor Balance, Freezing, Falling
Fear of falling and trying to hide movement problems can increases risk of falling. How to Face It: Join a Parkinson’s-specific exercise class that focuses on balance and strength. If freezing is a problem, work with a physical therapist. If you are a fall risk, get an alert service, including a GPS locator, and have your home evaluated for slip/fall risk.
Fear: Incontinence, Constipation, and Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Problems with continence and UTIs are more common among people with Parkinson’s than in the rest of the older population. Incontinence is associated with many other diseases and may be correctable. UTIs left untreated may cause sepsis and death. Untreated constipation can lead to an impacted bowel. How to Face It: Talk to your doctor, who may refer you to specialists such as urologists and gastroenterologists. Physical therapy, as well as medication, may be helpful. If you have to wear adult diapers, make sure you get the right size and follow instructions.
Fear: Swallowing Difficulties
Swallowing problems can be dangerous or even deadly. How to Face It: Discuss any swallowing difficulties with your neurologist, who may refer you to an occupational or speech therapist. Various exercises and techniques can restore normal or near-normal swallowing. Sign up for a class in Heimlich Maneuvers training. Courses are offered by the Red Cross and online.