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Discharge Instructions for Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease (PD) is a brain disorder that causes problem with movement. It gets worse over time.

It is treated with medicine and lifestyle changes. Some people may benefit from surgery, such as deep brain stimulation.

Steps to Take

Self Care

You will need to work closely with your care team to manage PD. It may help if you keep a diary of your symptoms. You can talk with your doctor about them. The diary will help you notice patterns. This will help you make changes to your treatment as the disease worsens.

What to Eat

Eat a healthful diet. It should be rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains. This can give you more energy and help you manage symptoms. Not eating enough can worsen symptoms. You can maintain your calories and nutrition if you:

  • Eat 5 to 6 small meals a day.
  • Take steps to adapt to problems swallowing:
    • You may need to change to a soft diet. This may mean scrambled eggs, poached fish, mashed veggies, and macaroni and cheese.
    • Keep foods moist with sauces and gravy.
    • Do not eat chewy, dried, crumbly, or spicy foods.
    • Sip liquids often during meals.
  • Drink high-calorie milks and smoothies.
  • Drink fruit and veggie juices.

It is important to keep an eye on your weight. Talk with a dietitian to learn about meal planning.

Activity

Regular exercise can help some people function better. Tai chi is a good option. A physical therapist can help you design a program. It will help to decrease rigidity and prevent falls. The program should also help you improve:

  • Strength
  • Stamina
  • Flexibility
  • Coordination

Ask about any limitations you may have. Do not drive unless the doctor has said it is safe.

Medications

Medicines may be given to manage problems with walking, movement, and tremors.

When taking medicine:

  • Take your medicine as advised. Do not change the amount or schedule.
  • Be aware of the side effects of your medicine. Tell your doctor if you have any.
  • Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medicine.
  • Do not share your prescription medicine.
  • Medicines can be harmful when mixed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one, including over the counter products and supplements.
  • Plan for refills.

Other Steps That May Help

Be sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night. It may also help to take one to two naps during the day to stay refreshed.

You should also take steps to manage stress. Think about trying meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture, or dance therapy.

Follow-up

Your doctor will need to check on your progress. Be sure to go to all appointments.

Depression is common in people with PD. Talk to your doctor about therapy or support groups in your area. It can help to share your story with others who are also coping with PD.

Problems to Look Out For

Call the doctor if you are having a hard time managing PD or you have:

  • New or worsening physical, speech, or emotional symptoms
  • Problems swallowing or eating regular meals
  • Weight loss
  • Lightheadedness when standing

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES:

National Parkinson Foundation
http://www.parkinson.org

Parkinson's Disease Foundation
http://www.pdf.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca

Parkinson Society
http://www.parkinson.ca

REFERENCES:

Managing Parkinson's. Parkinson’s Disease Foundation website. Available at: http://parkinson.org/Living-with-Parkinsons/Managing-Parkinsons. Accessed September 20, 2018.

Parkinson disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/parkinson-disease. Accessed March 26, 2021.

Parkinson disease and depression. EBSCO Nursing Reference Center website. Available at: https://www.ebscohost.com/nursing/products/nursing-reference-center. Accessed March 26, 2021.

Last reviewed March 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD