About my journey here

Sorry this is so protracted. Thanks for making it possible for me to join his community. I’m 77 and have accumulated a few disorders, torn shoulder ligaments, ulcerative colitis, tinnitus, and partial deafness. Two years ago I had a total right knee replacement, all seemed ok, one year later I had the left knee replaced which was a bit more serious with more grinding and hammering. However I suffered an infection and most of the skin on both hands and some off my legs peeled off, had antibiotics and for the first time in my life I was allergic to them.

I mention this as the knee replacement surgery is particularly brutal, this can cause body shock and trigger auto immune problems I’m told, just a thought as I wonder about a connection with PD

I noticed my handwriting was getting smaller a few years ago, also after the operations my walking was difficult but put down to the surgery, about a year ago I got intermittent trembling hands and in the last 9 months have lost dexterity of hands for example using a knife and fork has become difficult. I can only walk for about 5 minutes and I shuffle.

I asked my GP about PD about a month ago and hes referred me to a neurologist, I have received a letter but it just says if I still want an appointment by 19th august to let them know. So I’m not hopeful about a professional diagnosis soon, but need to be proactive, hence my appearance here.

The only good thing in my life is my dog, he and I live in one room in my house as my wife and I are separated, live in the same house and she is not a nice person. Despite it all I’m an optimistic person, but would love to be able to walk my dog again. I have no other family and no friends nearby; I live I fear of falling over as I can’t get up unaided.

I’m hoping to gai knowledge from you all to try to slow down my decline and maybe contribute in future

Hi @Freebird, welcome to our community, it’s lovely to have you part of it. It’s a welcoming and safe place to talk about how you are living with Parkinson’s.

Thank you for posting your message and sharing your experiences, we are sorry to hear about the symptoms you are struggling with. It’s important to be pro-active and access the support you are entitled to.

Please know that you are not alone, our confidential helpline is available for you to call. Our trained advisers are here to help and can offer you advice and support on what next steps you could take. The number to call is 0808 800 0303.

We are determined to ensure people affected by Parkinson’s live well with it, including being able to walk their dog, so we would encourage you to get in touch to see how we can support you.

Take care
Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team

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Hi freebird,
Hopefully when you get a diagnosis and put on medication this will help.

The stress of a operation not to mention the anesthesia could bring on neurological symptoms I believe.

My advice would be to try and exercise as best you can even sitting exercise can help.
The danger of muscle loss is real as we get older and can be quick. I am 80 and exercise as best I can . I would ask the doctor or neurologist for referral to a physio or movement disorder specialist. And get an exercise routine.

I use coconut oil tablespoon in black coffee in the morning as it has the essential fatty acids. And I use a nicotine patch 7mg twice a week Monday and Thursday improves the brain function and connections.

I also use red light therapy aka photobiomoduation as I believe it can stimulate the brain and improve the brain fur.
If you are still in a stressed state it makes neurological symptoms worse , so find a way to destress if you can .

Hope the above helps you

While you are waiting for a diagnosis have a look on YouTube

Thank you very much for your advice and interest. Its very much appeciated

Thanks very much for the advice, i have a pedal machine thingy which i neglected after lapsing in despair. I will start again. Thank You

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