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Parkinson`s Disease/Questions Answered by Expert Margot RN BScN GNC

SubjectDate Asked
PD sufferer with an Infection11/21/2011
  Q: My Mother has PD and is 46 she was diagnosed 8 years ago and has had deep brain stimulation. Over ...
  A: I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. PD is a terrible disease which slowly ...
nursing home/parkinson10/10/2011
  Q: Have family member in assisted living now, at what stage of the disease does the patient need to be ...
  A: According to North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services: "Once you have an initial list of ...
nursing home/parkinson10/9/2011
  Q: Have family member in assisted living now, at what stage of the disease does the patient need to be ...
  A: You'd really need to speak with the Social Worker at your Mother's AL home or at a local Residential ...
parkinsons10/4/2011
  Q: Recently dad has been very confused and forgetting things he has been taking fainting episodes and ...
  A: I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. PD is a terrible disease which slowly ...
Spits out medication7/19/2011
  Q: My dad is 83 and in the late stages of PD. He has recently begun spitting out his meds, which my ...
  A: It can be a challenge to get medications into patient’s who prefer to spit them out. Here is some ...
Early death from Parkinsons7/10/2011
  Q: My ex-wife died on July 1st from Parkinson's but due to our divorce I have no details. She was 64 ...
  A: I am sorry to hear about the loss of your wife and the demise of your relationship - it was ...
To visit Mom soon or plan for the trip.7/7/2011
  Q: My Mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease about five or six years ago. Currently she is having ...
  A: First allow me to apologise for my tardy response - my telephone company has been driving me crazy ...
Parkinson's Disease and Morphine6/24/2011
  Q: Under what circumstances would a Parkinson's patient, end stage, who has stopped eating and drinking ...
  A: Obviously you're concerned about the circumstances under which a PD patient has been given Morphine ...
Stage v6/24/2011
  Q: How long on average is stage v of pd? Mothers been diagnosed 11 years ago; now in hospital for ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Mother’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
Vascular Parkinsons6/22/2011
  Q: My Father In Law was diagnosed recently with vascular Parkinson's (he exhibits no tremors and did ...
  A: I think if you're already noticing your FIL has trouble controlling his leg walking then you are ...
Parkinsons dementia5/14/2011
  Q: he has dementia and parkinsons he has a lot of other problems as well we don't know what to do, he ...
  A: The thing to keep in mind is that most symptoms are treatable and if your current challenge is ...
mum5/6/2011
  Q: My mum has now began to choke at anything that is given her by mouth, although the nursing home is ...
  A: Humans are amazing animals and we can actually go on for several weeks on not much more than water. ...
Sudden severe dyskenesia4/29/2011
  Q: I am a caregiver for a male, 76 yrs old with Parkinsons. He has been on Sinemet for about 15 years ...
  A: Yes it is very difficult to guess without knowing your patient’s medical history and her current ...
Parkinsons and mental functioning4/24/2011
  Q: my name's Katherine I am a student studying psychology and my dad has Parkinson's disease, he has ...
  A: I am truly so sorry to read about your Dad's struggle with PD. PD is both chronic, meaning it ...
father and Parkinson's3/30/2011
  Q: My father entered hospice care a month ago. He has diabetes, psoriatic arthritis, and stage v of ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Father’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
father with advanced PD3/23/2011
  Q: I was hoping you could lend some advice on what we might expect now with my father. He is just shy ...
  A: I’m so sorry to hear about your Father's poor health. The first thing you need to do is find out if ...
ENDSTAGE PARKINSON AND PAIN ON KNEES.3/19/2011
  Q: SPOUSE WITH END STAGEPARKINSON HAS SWOLLEN KNEES ,ISUNABLE TO WALK.DOES TAKE PAIN MEDS.IS THIS KIND ...
  A: Eva what you have described is not associated with PD so you need to have a physician examine your ...
Parkinsons disease2/23/2011
  Q: My father is 88 years old. For the past four and a half years, he has been treated for vascular ...
  A: Your Dad may have PD and may well have dementia due to PD. I believe you need to have him at least ...
Parkinsons Dementia and Seroquel2/9/2011
  Q: My name is Alex. My father has had Parkinsons' for seventeen years. Recently (in the past two ...
  A: Your the Seroquel could very well be causing or aggravating your father's confusion and added to hi ...
pain in affected arm with parkinsons2/8/2011
  Q: I was diagnosed with parkinsons at age 44. Currently I am 54 and am progressing slowly thankfully. ...
  A: ROM exercises - do the exercises in the same order to keep it simple and easy to remember. Start ...
pain in affected arm with parkinsons2/8/2011
  Q: I was diagnosed with parkinsons at age 44. Currently I am 54 and am progressing slowly thankfully. ...
  A: The delayed transmission of signals from the brain to the skeletal muscles, due to diminished ...
Is this the end of my father's life with PD?2/7/2011
  Q: My father is a 69 year old who was diagnosed with PD 17 years ago. Although he struggled with ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Dad's struggle with PD. We always want to do what's best for those we ...
End Stage Parkinson's Disease2/7/2011
  Q: Sadly, my father, age 89 died two weeks ago due to aspiration pneumonia. He had Parkinson's ...
  A: I have never heard of any surgical treatments for such issues. We do send stroke patients (and ...
End Stage Parkinson's Disease2/6/2011
  Q: Sadly, my father, age 89 died two weeks ago due to aspiration pneumonia. He had Parkinson's ...
  A: So sorry to read about your Father's passing. It's difficult to know all the factors that the ...
Parkinson's patient refusing food1/30/2011
  Q: My dad is in the late stages of Parkinsons. The end stage seems to have arrived very quickly. He ...
  A: Personally and professionally I believe in allowing people to slip away when they’re ready and the ...
Not sure if I do have Parkinsons or not1/19/2011
  Q: About 2 years ago, I was under the care of a Phychiatrist for Bi Polar disorder and severe ...
  A: unfortunately, there is no diagnostic test that can confirm Parkinson's disease. Laboratory testing ...
understanding1/16/2011
  Q: My mother who is 81 yrs old was recently diagnosed with the beginning stage of parkinson disease. ...
  A: I am truly so sorry to read about your Mom's struggle with PD, I can empathize with your pain ...
nighttime hallucinations/paranois9/20/2010
  Q: My husband (82 years old) has Parkinson's Dementia and is lately experiencing late afternoon/evening ...
  A: Yes it is very difficult to guess without knowing your husband’s complete medical history and any ...
End Stage Parkinsons9/18/2010
  Q: My mom was diagnosed about 10 or 12 years ago right after she had colon cancer surgery. She has a ...
  A: Yes it is very difficult to guess without knowing your Mother’s complete medical history and any ...
What are the ulcers?9/16/2010
  Q: What are the ulcers that you mentioned in your earlier answer?
  A: I'm sorry but I'm not sure which question you are referencing (I have answered thousands of ...
Parkinsons & Dementia6/1/2010
  Q: My husband was diagnoed with early dementia and Parkinsons disease approximately six months ago at ...
  A: I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. PD is a terrible disease which slowly ...
end stage PD5/24/2010
  Q: My father has been suffering from PD for the last 14 yrs. it hsa progresed and of late there is ...
  A: It’s very difficult to tell how much of his aphasia is from the disease and how much may be from ...
Parkinson's dementia5/24/2010
  Q: My 77 year old mother has been diagnosed with Parkinson's for about 8 years. She is in a nursing ...
  A: I’m a little surprised that the nursing home is not more on top of her health and suggesting ways to ...
Final Stage of Parkinson's5/18/2010
  Q: I am in advanced stage of Parkinson's. I had the DBS surgery about a year and a half ago. It handles ...
  A: please excuse my slow response. It’s so difficult to guess a person’s prognosis timeline with PD as ...
parkinsons4/18/2010
  Q: Can you help me with what to expect next with Parkinsons ?? My husband is 83, in a Nursing home, ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your husband’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
Parkinson's question3/3/2010
  Q: Good evening, My father was diagnosed with Parkinson's 2 years ago (or at least our mother tells us ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your father’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
end stage parkinson's disease2/15/2010
  Q: Once the patient is in that end stage as you explained, how long do they using live once they are ...
  A: No I completely agree, "rehab" is pointless for advanced PD, the appropriate choice of care would be ...
Parkinson's Disease2/11/2010
  Q: I take care of a patient who appears to be possibly in the last stage. He also has dementia which ...
  A: In itself, Parkinson's is not a fatal condition and each individual responds differently, some live ...
bladder infections2/8/2010
  Q: My father was diagnosed 8 years ago with PD he has been doing fine until the last 2 weeks, he has ...
  A: It sounds like your father is having Delusions or Hallucinations, and these can caused by many ...
PARKINSONS2/7/2010
  Q: MY FATHER WAS DIagnosed in the last stage of parkinsons desease with lewi-bodies how long do you ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your father’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
Parlinsons prognosis2/1/2010
  Q: How cotmmon is severe back pain with Parkinsons. My husband has had symptoms for 6 years now but ...
  A: I would see if you could get a massage therapist to go in and visit every 2-3 days a week for about ...
my 85 year old father2/1/2010
  Q: My father has been living with the disease for around 15 years. He has never had a tremor but is ...
  A: PD does not directly cause diarrhea so I would recommend looking into its cause and try to prevent ...
Parkinson's Disease2/1/2010
  Q: My mum is in her early 70's and has had PD for about 25 years now. She has been seeing a Neurologist ...
  A: I’m sorry to read about your Mom’s struggle with PD. My first concern is her abdomen and I’d want t ...
My mother's parkinson's2/1/2010
  Q: I believe my mother to be in the late stages of Parkinon's Disease. We think she has had the ...
  A: You are experiencing the same stressful challenges many of us in the ‘sandwich generation’ are ...
Reason1/30/2010
  Q: Mam, My Grandfather had PD.His Health was not worse but suddenly he passed away. A nurse was ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Grandfather but I can almost assure you that the cathertization did ...
parkinson's disease1/22/2010
  Q: Will a massage chair (recliner) help for pain -
  A: Yes I do believe a massage chair would provide great comfort and relieve tired muscles for someone ...
suggestions for a late stage case1/20/2010
  Q: My grandmother was diagnosed some time ago with PD and now has developed many late stage symptoms. ...
  A: I really do not thin that your Grandma would qualify for Hospice or Palliative Care as PD is ...
parkinsons1/5/2010
  Q: my wife was diagnosed with this disease about 2 years ago,she only takes a half of carvadopa ...
  A: I do apologise for my tardy response, I have been fighting a stubborn virus myself this past week. ...
My mom12/30/2009
  Q: My mom had been living with Parkinson's for almost 8 years now. What I have read she seems to be in ...
  A: I agree with you that your Mother is in late stages of Parkinson’s and hospice would be a good ...
about parkinson12/29/2009
  Q: my father is 62 year old and he was the physical director but now he is barely able to walk--only ...
  A: Currently, the types (“classes”) of medications available to treat Parkinson’s on the market ...
sister with parkinson's12/26/2009
  Q: My 53 year old sister has a long history of prescription drug abuse, falling and hitting her head ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your sister’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful ...
Acute symptoms of End Stage PD12/16/2009
  Q: My aunt has been hospitalized for 3 weeks now and is said to be in the End Stage of PD. Just this ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Aunt’s diagnosis; this time can be a very scary time for family. You ...
Parkinson's and Boxing11/15/2009
  Q: Here is my question. is there any scientific evidence that boxing causes Parkinson's ? in other ...
  A: Muhammad Ali has Parkinson's Syndrome, a neurological condition that affects motor and speech ...
end stage parkinsons10/16/2009
  Q: My uncle was diagnoised with Parkinsons several years ago. We have been told now that he has been ...
  A: so sorry to hear about your Uncle. You are correct, "end stage" refers to when you reach a certain ...
parkensins10/12/2009
  Q: my huband has parkensins,he was diagnoised 5 yrs ago,he is 64 my question is does this disease ...
  A: I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. PD is a terrible disease which slowly ...
Parkinson's10/8/2009
  Q: For constant fatigue and muscle tiredness, how do you feel about taking CoQ10 for the lack of energy ...
  A: CoQ10 is an electron carrier and is important to many body energy systems, particularly in the cell ...
my dad is in denial about parkinsons10/6/2009
  Q: I wonder if you can advise me. My father is 82 and had a diagnosis of parkinsons 6 months ago and ...
  A: Memory loss is not uncommon with PD as it usually leads to some level of PD-related dementia in most ...
symptoms10/1/2009
  Q: 62 year old male, shuffles when walking, falls when starting to run, leans forward and will fall, ...
  A: Obviously no one can, or should, diagnose over the internet, but I will share some information which ...
Husband has parkinsonds AND Alzhiemers9/9/2009
  Q: My husband has Parkinsons AND ALzhiers. He is now bedridden, with a Catheter. Needs full care. Is ...
  A: I do apologise for my late response – computer challenges. I am sorry to read about your husband’s ...
Parkinsons in Family9/5/2009
  Q: My maternal grandmother passed away from Parkinsons several years ago, my father in 2007, and my ...
  A: .Genetic Link to Familial Parkinson's Found [Friday March 21, 2008] A paper released this week ...
Familial Essentail Tremor9/3/2009
  Q: My friend,S mother, aged 65, suffering from Familial Essential Tremor. 1.Can she fully cure, if yes ...
  A: Her doctor will ask her to avoid caffeine, cold pills and some other medicines if they seem to make ...
Familial Essentail Tremor9/2/2009
  Q: My friend,S mother, aged 65, suffering from Familial Essential Tremor. 1.Can she fully cure, if yes ...
  A: Essential Tremors can usually be reduced with medication, but as of now they cannot be "cured". ...
End Stages of Parkinson's9/1/2009
  Q: My mother has had Parkinson's disease for 40 years. The disease progressed slowly for many years ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Mom’s condition, this must be tearing you and your family apart ...
Parkinsons Diesase8/28/2009
  Q: For the past 12 years my aunt has been suffering from PD. The past couple years have progressed to ...
  A: It sounds like she may have had “Deep BrainStimulation” which you can read about here ...
end stages of Parkinson's Disease8/27/2009
  Q: I read your answer to "What are the symptoms of the end stages of Parkinson's" My Mother has all of ...
  A: Dysarthrias are classified in multiple ways based on the presentation of symptoms. Most people are ...
balance problems8/27/2009
  Q: I have had PD for 12 years. Currently, I am on quite high doses of medication and I am having a lot ...
  A: What you describe to me sounds very typical for PD, I have seen many, many patients ambulate exactly ...
Parkinson's and a feeding tube8/27/2009
  Q: Aug 2009. My father was diagnosed with Parkinson's 1 year ago at age 83 and has made a quick turn ...
  A: Hey Linda, Each person's experience with a disease like PD is individual so the care has to be ...
Parkinson's and a feeding tube8/26/2009
  Q: Aug 2009. My father was diagnosed with Parkinson's 1 year ago at age 83 and has made a quick turn ...
  A: I’m sorry to read about your Dad’s condition, PD is a very difficult disease. I can tell that ...
end stage of Parkinsons8/17/2009
  Q: We have been told my mom who is 77 is in the end stage of Parkinsons. The nursing home is still ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your Mom, COPD PD is a cruel disease. I would recommend getting her up as ...
End stage Parkinson's8/16/2009
  Q: When a person has been diagnosed as being in end stage Parkinson's,what is the average remaining ...
  A: In itself, Parkinson's is not a fatal condition. However, the end-stage of the disease can lead to ...
Parkinson, what type of specialist8/15/2009
  Q: My Mother's doctor is hardly available or compassion for her. I would like her to go to a ...
  A: PD patients are generally followed regularly by Neurologists - you might investigate whether there ...
PD and death8/14/2009
  Q: My father is 82 years old and has been living with PD for many years. My dad does not have the ...
  A: I’m so sorry to hear about your Father's poor health. You are fortunate as you have his Living Will ...
Need answers to Parkinsonism--not Parkinson8/13/2009
  Q: My 67 year old father-in-law has finally been diagnosed with Parkinson--not PD. He is in a nursing ...
  A: As you are well aware, Parkinsonism is a complex condition with a multitude of possible causes, but ...
tremors please help8/12/2009
  Q: . and in my chest i can feel shaking. when i lean on the arm the shaking gets worse.. when i think ...
  A: My honest opinion is that one physician may be wrong, but yours has sent you for adequate ...
END STAGE OF PARKINSON DISEASE8/3/2009
  Q: My wife is 77 and has had PD for 12yrs. We have been married for 54 yrs. and her only caregiver ...
  A: I am so sorry to read about your wife's struggle with PD, I can feel the pain in your written word. ...
Life Expectancy7/31/2009
  Q: My 51 yrs old sister has stage 4 Parkingson's and I'm trying to figure out some finances for her. ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your sister's struggle with PD - it's such a cruel disease. It's almost ...
dads parkinsons7/13/2009
  Q: We are at a point we don't know what to do with our dad. He is awake all night and walks out of the ...
  A: I strongly recommend you arrange a "Care Conference" with the family physician, community nurse, ...
End Stage Parkinson's Disease6/25/2009
  Q: My father-in-law is in the end stages of Parkinson's he is in a nursing home and on a catheter and ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your FIL’s struggle with VD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful to ...
Parkinsons and appetite6/22/2009
  Q: My mother has vascular parkinsons. I have been told by the GP it is end-stage. Over the last couple ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your mothers struggle with VD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful to ...
Parkinsons disease and seizures6/17/2009
  Q: My uncle has Parkinsons x 12 years and is probably having seizures. Not full grand mal as there is ...
  A: I wonder if he might be having TIAs or “mini-strokes”? You should discuss your observations with ...
Parkinson's6/17/2009
  Q: I would like to ask a few question about end stage Parkinson's but need to make sure someone is ...
  A: from what you describe it sounds to me like he is in Stage IV. I’ll do my best to compile ...
IS MY DAD NEAR DEATH6/15/2009
  Q: MY DAD WAS DIAGNOSED WITH PD ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO IT HAS PROGRESSED THOU THE YEARS. HE KNOW SLEEPS ...
  A: Do you have any medical support for your Dad or are you and your Mom trying to care for him all ...
End Stages of Parkinsons6/15/2009
  Q: After having three accidents in the past week my mother has received an initial diagnosis of mild ...
  A: My advice for now is to first concentrate on her needs today until you have a definite diagnosis; ...
End Stages of Parkinsons6/14/2009
  Q: After having three accidents in the past week my mother has received an initial diagnosis of mild ...
  A: I am truly so sorry to read about your Mom's diagnosis with PD, I do wonder however if she is truly ...
help for grandma6/12/2009
  Q: I help my parents take care of dad's parents. Grandma has what I've determined from a chart as ...
  A: I’ sorry to read about your Grandma’s struggle with PD, it is a very difficult disease with so many ...
Stage 5 Parkinson's5/5/2009
  Q: My mom has had Parkinson's for several years now but looks like her health is rapidly declining over ...
  A: You are experiencing the same stressful challenges many of us in the ‘sandwich generation’ are ...
Progression of Parkinson's Disease3/31/2009
  Q: My Aunt has been suffering from Parkinson's Disease for approximately 15 years. 2 years ago she had ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Aunt’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful to ...
diarrhea a sign of ESPD?3/29/2009
  Q: I am a part time caregiver (not a nurse nor trained as such) to a 77 yo woman with PD. I am with her ...
  A: Diarrhea is not a normal condition associated with PD, it is most commonly an indication of GI ...
Parkinson3/1/2009
  Q: I am 74 years old and am suffering from Parkinsons disease. Presently my hands tremble and my left ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your struggle with PD – it is a very challenging disease. The first step ...
end stages of Parkinson's Disease1/7/2009
  Q: My dad is 85 years old and a couple of years ago was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (we ...
  A: I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. PD is a terrible disease which slowly ...
End stage pd, hospice options12/29/2008
  Q: My husband has had pd for 8 yrs. He also has CHD and has a pacemaker. His condition has deteriorated ...
  A: You could keep your husband at home if that’s what you want to do, it will certainly be a lot of ...
swollen ankles and right leg11/15/2008
  Q: My ankles start swelling wihtin sn hourof rising and by the end of the day they are very ...
  A: My immediate concern is your heart function and circulatory system. I strongly recommend you go see ...
When to start medication9/27/2008
  Q: I am a 52 year old female that has been seen by two neurogists who have diagnosed me with early ...
  A: The medications are used to treat (lessen) the symptoms so I cannot imagine why you would not want ...
My dad, Parkinsons patient9/23/2008
  Q: My dad is 88 and has had Parkinsons for 10+/- years. He is physically in good shape, per se, no ...
  A: Obviously I am not familiar with your father’s specific medical history, but I would guess that you ...
Parkinsons Disease9/10/2008
  Q: my father is 79 and has had Parkinsons for 10-12 years. He is late stage and after another bout of ...
  A: It is really impossible to guess as have seen people literally die within hours of “giving up” ...
My Mother8/18/2008
  Q: My Mum was first diagnosed with parkinsons about 10 years ago. She is now 70. For the past 2 years ...
  A: I am sorry to read bout your Mother’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease. UTIs are ...
Dying of Parkinson's Disease6/25/2008
  Q: How does one die of Parkinson's Disease? I'm asking about what is transpiring with a patient's ...
  A: I am sorry if my answer was not exactly what you were looking for. I am a Nurse, not a ...
urinating6/7/2008
  Q: my husband has had Parkinson's for 19 yrs. He uses a walker. When he goes to the toilet to urinate ...
  A: I am not aware of any supportive type device that would work in this situation so the best things I ...
Late stage Parkinsonism disease6/5/2008
  Q: My aunt was diagnosed with Parkinsonsim disease about 3 years ago. She has detoriated to the point ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Aunt’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful to ...
Parkinson disease6/2/2008
  Q: how long does the patient have to live at stage five of the disease? Thank You.
  A: It is very difficult for anyone to guess as there are so many contributing factors like previous ...
55 year old with advanced Parkinson's5/29/2008
  Q: My mother is 55 years old and was diagnosed with PD 11 years ago. She had DBS 2 years ago (not so ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Mother’s struggle with PD; it can be such a cruel disease. It is ...
end-stage parkinsons4/4/2008
  Q: My Mother was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2004 (only 4 years ago). After taking various Parkinsons ...
  A: I have not seen a patient with PD progress that quickly, but I have seen patients with similar ...
End-Stage Parkinson's Disease2/15/2008
  Q: Good Day from the Islands......My 86 year-old mother is in end stage Parkinson's. As is her wish, ...
  A: I do apologise for my tardy response, my Laptop froze on me and I had to get it repaired this week. ...
end stage Parkinson's2/8/2008
  Q: My husband (a 5 yr pd diagnosis and 48 yr diabetic)is currently hospitalized. He had a sudden BP ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your husband, PD is a cruel disease! People can live many years in the ...
Final Stage Parkinsons2/8/2008
  Q: My father is now in final stage parkinsons. He lives with me. I am also a single parent to a 9 ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your Dad’s struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease and so painful to ...
Parkinson,s Disease2/5/2008
  Q: i am experiencing the symptoms which i,ve read are similar to PD.From last 3 years there is a ...
  A: I am sorry to read about your symptoms, this must be very scary for you. It is not clear to me ...
My grandfather has PD1/29/2008
  Q: My grandfather just turned 79 this month. Two years ago he had a stroke and it seemed to take off 10 ...
  A: I’m so sorry to read about your Grandfather’s horrible experience the last week. My advise to you ...
Parkinson's and Bladder Infections1/22/2008
  Q: My mom is 89 and in a nursing home and from what I've read is possibly in the end stages. She ...
  A: I’m sorry to read about your Mother’s recurrent UTIs, that obviously cannot be comfortable for her. ...
Is this Parkinson's1/17/2008
  Q: My 83 year old father recently passed away from complications due to Parkinson's. My question is, I ...
  A: PD can be a challenge to diagnose so obviously I can not say for sure, but from what you discribe I ...
seizures in the later stages of Parkinsons1/9/2008
  Q: Please could you give me some information about seizures which my elderly 86 year old mother ...
  A: You did not mention what type of seizure your Mother had so I will assume it was a ¡§grand mal ...
Swallowing problems12/30/2007
  Q: I am a freelance writer and I am currently writing an article on Parkinson's disease. How common is ...
  A: Many people with Parkinson's disease have difficulty swallowing because they lose control of their ...
sinemet11/29/2007
  Q: My huband has been a Parkinsons sufferer for about five years, and has only ever taken Sinemet, this ...
  A: Treatment Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder that requires broad-based management including ...
PARKINSON'S DISEASE11/27/2007
  Q: MY 83 YEAR OLD MOTHER HAS HAD PARKINSON'S DISEASE FOR MANY YEARS, SHE IS IN A NURSING HOME. SHE IS ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your Mother, PD is a cruel disease. People can live many years in the ...
end stage Parkinson's11/14/2007
  Q: a family member has all the symptoms listed for Stage V Parkinson's. She's been bed=ridden for ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your loved one, PD is a cruel disease. People can live many years in the ...
final stages of parkinson's Disease11/4/2007
  Q: Margo,my mother is in her final stages of Parkinson's disease.She has been bed ridden for a little ...
  A: Your need to discuss medication options with her physician; she may respond to anti-psychotics if ...
Parkinson's question11/3/2007
  Q: I have record that I filed a question on October 30, at 7:54pm. My question was what are the stages ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your PD and I do apologise for my tardy response. Parkinson's disease ...
Parkinson's10/30/2007
  Q: I would like to know the different stages of Parkinson's Disease. I am 53 and have had PD for 7 ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your PD. Parkinson's disease strikes people in many different ways, leaving ...
Medication and End Stage Parkinson's10/30/2007
  Q: my father is 86 and has had Parkinson's for about 15 years. He is currently in a Nursing Home, ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your father's struggle with PD, it is such a cruel disease. The decision to ...
Dimenchia10/29/2007
  Q: My mother has been diagnosed with Dementia. She's on medication (sorry I don't know the name off ...
  A: I am so sorry to hear about your Mother's struggle with Dementia, it is such a cruel and challenging ...
Planning as stage 4 goes to stage 510/29/2007
  Q: First, I want to say how much I appreciate the honesty of your answers. My father's neurologist ...
  A: I am sorry to hear about your Father's struggle with PD. My honest advice is to seriously consider ...
my FIL's hallucinations10/25/2007
  Q: my 84 year old FIL has end stage PD is in hospital at the moment but is having terifying ...
  A: I'm very sorry to read about your FIL's struggle with PD, it can be such a cruel disease. I think ...
Mom with Parkinson's and vision issues10/24/2007
  Q: My mom has been diagnosed with Parkinson's in Eastern Europe. She is visiting us here in the US now. ...
  A: Madopar capsules and dispersible tablets contain the active ingredients levodopa and benserazide. ...
parkinson's10/15/2007
  Q: I was recently told by my Dr. that I "might" have the beginning of Parkinson's. I had tremors in my ...
  A: I'm very sorry to read about your diagnosis, PD is a terrible disease, but they are making advances ...
End State Parkinson's10/6/2007
  Q: My step father has Parkinson's and I'm sure he would be classified as end stage. He's mostly ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
dementia10/2/2007
  Q: how do i know if my great aunt has it?
  A: Please accept my sincerest apologies for my extremely late response - I had the worst stomach bug I ...
New diagnosis10/1/2007
  Q: My mother in law was just diagnosed last week with Parkinson's. She's been going to doctors for more ...
  A: I am sorry to hear about your MIL's diagnosis, as you are no doubt aware, PD is a progressive ...
My Dad is 88 yrs old with Parkinson's Disease9/24/2007
  Q: I think my dad has Stage V PD. He exhibits most of the systems you describe. He is in a nh now. He ...
  A: I'm so sorry to read about your Dad. I'm not sure how long he has suffered with PD, but sadly it can ...
End stage PD - fluctuations9/23/2007
  Q: My father has suffered from PD for about 10 years and has been stage 5 for almost 2 years. He is ...
  A: I can not explain it medically, but I have seen similar situations where some end-stage (PD or ...
Swallowing therapy9/19/2007
  Q: Wondering if you've heard of "VitalStim" therapy for swallowing improvement. My dad is 84 and coughs ...
  A: I am not familiar with VitalStil therapy personally so I did some research and these are some ...
end stage parkinson's disease?9/16/2007
  Q: My FIL has suffered from PD for close to 15 years. He was placed in a NH about 4 years ago b/c he ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your FIL's struggle with PD. Obviously I am not familiar with your FIL's ...
mom-pd9/13/2007
  Q: I have read several of your q&a's from others and thought I would write you for any support. My Mom ...
  A: I'm so sorry to read about your Mom's struggle with PD, it is a terrible disease I would not wish on ...
Head shaking8/30/2007
  Q: I have a question about my husband. I have noticed within the last 6 to maybe 8 months when he ...
  A: Tremor is an involuntary oscillation of a body part that is classified as rest tremor, postural ...
PD-sleep attacks8/30/2007
  Q: I am 53 and I have Parkinson for more than 7 years; I am treated with Bromergon- bromocriptinum ...
  A: Link Between Parkinson's And Narcolepsy Discovered Science Daily — Parkinson's disease is ...
End-stage parkinson's8/28/2007
  Q: My father-in-law has Parkinson's and seems to be entering the final stages. He is completely ...
  A: I think it would be worth trying to see if there is an apparent cause or trigger for your FIL's ...
End-stage parkinson's8/25/2007
  Q: My father-in-law has Parkinson's and seems to be entering the final stages. He is completely ...
  A: I'm so sorry to hear about your FIL's struggle with PD and Dementia, he is obviously having a very ...
Life Span of a Parkinson's Disease patient8/24/2007
  Q: How long is a Parkinson's Disease, like Muhammed Ali or Michael J. Fox, patient expected to live ...
  A: PD is both chronic, meaning it persists over a long period of time, and progressive, meaning its ...
parkinsons8/22/2007
  Q: I don't know whether my dad is in the end stage of PD but hee is barely able to walk--only with a ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's struggle with PD< it is a very difficult disease for both those ...
end stage parkinsons8/16/2007
  Q: First off, thank you for your answers. I've read through many, and as you say, each case is ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's struggle with PD. As you may have read in my previous answers, ...
Parkinson's8/14/2007
  Q: I just returned from helping care for my father-in-law that has lived with parkinson's for 20 years. ...
  A: First you need to talk to his doctor about the frequent nocturnal urination; it may be that he ...
last stages/parkinsons8/7/2007
  Q: My father has PD, and his swallowing shut down in July, they put in a stomach tube, and he is home ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's struggle with PD, it can be a very cruel disease. I strongly ...
End signs of Parkinsons8/7/2007
  Q: My 81 year old grandfather is very near the end of his life. He has been battling Parkinsons for ...
  A: It is not uncommon for people to rally during their decline in health and it can be painful for ...
End signs of Parkinsons8/6/2007
  Q: My 81 year old grandfather is very near the end of his life. He has been battling Parkinsons for ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your Grandfather's struggle with PD - it can be a very cruel disease. Many ...
Parkinsons7/23/2007
  Q: In the past year, my dad has went from walking & functioning, to vegetable. He can still swallow, ...
  A: Obviously I don't have a crystal ball and can't predict your Dad's specific prognosis without being ...
Imminent Death?7/19/2007
  Q: The stroke left her fully paralyzed, unable to speak, communicate, focus, eat drink and otherwise ...
  A: Based on your description I would say your Mother is close to passing on as it sounds like she is ...
slow movement6/2/2007
  Q: A relative of mine (who refuses to go to the doctor) has become very slow in movement over the past ...
  A: "Slow movements" alone is not enough to make me think PD, but here is an except describing PD ...
appetite5/4/2007
  Q: My father has parkinsonism. Doctor said a combination of parkinsons and alzheimers. He does not ...
  A: It is most likely a side effect from his Parkinson's medication. Levodopa has a large number of ...
black outs4/24/2007
  Q: My father in law suffers from both alzheimers and parkinsons disease. He has been experiencing ...
  A: It sounds to me like your FIL is experiencing Syncope. Partial or complete loss of consciousness ...
Parkinson's Disease4/10/2007
  Q: My father was diagnosed 14 years ago with PD, shortly after a bypass surgery. For many years he ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Dad, PD is such a cruel disease. The first priority must always be ...
Parkinson's Disease...late stages?4/6/2007
  Q: My precious father is 93 and has been treated with Parkinson's for nearly 14 years. He is in a ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
How can you tell if death is imminent?4/3/2007
  Q: My father is in the final stages of the disease, he is totally confined to bed,has no vol. motor ...
  A: Below is an excerpt which I think should answer all your questions. I hope this helps and I wish you ...
end stage parkinsons disease3/28/2007
  Q: My mother has a long history of hospitalizations over the last 3 years. As of 12/2006 she was ...
  A: DNRs are always a family decision and you need to follow the patient's wishes whenever possible. But ...
Agitation and tensing of muscles3/21/2007
  Q: I'm helping care for someone who is in the 5th stage of Parkinson's, he has started, over the last ...
  A: As it's happening the same time every day, I would inform his doctor so he can adjust his ...
Dimenchia2/7/2007
  Q: I am 62, live alone, suffer from post traumatic stress, but for the past two years, my memory is so ...
  A: Memory loss can of course be Dementia, but it can also be due to many very treatable causes. You ...
medicine request2/6/2007
  Q: My Mom she is endstage of Parkinson's disease,she was fall down and broke the leg , stayed in ...
  A: There are medications which can help to produce saliva which can assist with swallowing, and adding ...
Is surgery risky for plasy patient.2/6/2007
  Q: My father age 72 suffering from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) from last 2 years. Recently he ...
  A: I'm not a surgeon so I don;t really feel qualified to give a second opinion, but I can tell you that ...
PSP patient can undergo surgery2/5/2007
  Q: My father age 72 suffering from progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) from last 2 years. Recently he ...
  A: I'm not a surgeon so I don't really feel qualified to give a second opinion, but I can tell you that ...
rapid tongue movement1/7/2007
  Q: I am 68 years old. On 5/25/2006 I fell and hit my head on concrete. I WAS UNCONCIOUS for awhile and ...
  A: Your tongue movements sounds similar to Extrapyramidal side effects (EPS)which can happen with ...
mother's parkinsons disease12/23/2006
  Q: To make it short.We just had to put Mother in a nursing home that does theraphy too.Will parkinsons ...
  A: Aside from the usual end-stage disease process, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information ...
parkinsons12/16/2006
  Q: my mother-in-law is living with my husband and I and I have noticed a big change in her. She has ...
  A: ] It's really hard for me to guess a stafe with so little information, but I'd guess your MIL is ...
About last stage12/11/2006
  Q: My name is Susie and I have care for my mother in law in her home for the past 3 years our family ...
  A: Yes, each experience with PD is individual, but it also follows a generally common progression of ...
are we at the end?12/7/2006
  Q: Margot, My mom (mother-in-law)has was DX'd w/ PD 10-12 years ago,(her father died of the same). Her ...
  A: I do not think you're over-reacting at all. Although I am always very hesitant to use the word ...
determining life expectancy12/7/2006
  Q: Once an individual, 82 years old, has reached end stage parkinsons, is it common to live 5 years ...
  A: Everyone's disease process is individual but I have seen many patients live 5 or more years in the ...
determining life expectancy12/6/2006
  Q: My father in law is 82 and is in end stage parkinsons. He can talk, yet has short term memory loss. ...
  A: Aside from the usual end-stage disease process, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information ...
parkionson11/28/2006
  Q: my father is suffering from Parkinson disease from last 5 years but this days he ask for food more ...
  A: I suggest you talk to your father's doctor and ask about trying Risperidone to treat his agitation. ...
parkinsons11/28/2006
  Q: my gran has recently fallen into the last stage of parkinsons disease after suffering for eight ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your Gran, PD is a cruel disease. People can live many years in the ...
parkinson's disease V and End stages11/26/2006
  Q: I was wondering if you could give me some help and answer some questions for me. My dad--is 78, is ...
  A: I'm sorry to read about your Dad, PD is a cruel disease. People can live many years in the end-stage ...
end stage parkinsins10/24/2006
  Q: My mother has suffered from Parkinsons for many years and is now 87. We have been told that she is ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
Parkinson Disease10/10/2006
  Q: My father is 81 yo and has parkinsons disease, I think he has given up the fight....He won't eat and ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
final stage parkinsons10/9/2006
  Q: He has not discussed life support, but his medical chart has DNR in it. Mom is torn between her ...
  A: If he agreed to the DNR, then that can indicate he does not want heroic effrots, but it still needs ...
final stage parkinsons10/8/2006
  Q: My father is in the final phase of Parkinson's. On Sept 18th, my mother discovered him semi-comatose ...
  A: Has your father ever expressed his desire for Life Support; if so, you should follow his wishes. If ...
Rapidly declining Parkinsons10/5/2006
  Q: My father, 87 yrs. old, was in process of being diagnosed for Parkinson's since March of this year. ...
  A: Your description sounds very unusual for PD which is typically a slow progressive disease which ...
Parkinson's disease and dyspnoea10/2/2006
  Q: just to let you know that all other possible causes have already been ruled out, he has has chest ...
  A: Anxiety and SOB (Shortness of Breath) go hand in hand - most COPD patients experience Anxiety when ...
Parkinson's disease and dyspnoea10/1/2006
  Q: My father has had PD for approx 25 years,and I suspect he is coming to the end stages. He has begun ...
  A: Shortness of Breath can be a sign of an underlying treatable condition, and it can also be a normal ...
Parkinson doesn't talk9/29/2006
  Q: ------------------------- Followup To he has been evalued by ot and was told to use a thicket ...
  A: Yes, difficulty speaking is a common symptom of PD as are: Constipation Difficulty swallowing ...
weight loss9/29/2006
  Q: My sister and I have a 60 year old mother who is what we believe to be signs of parkinsons disease ...
  A: Weight-loss can be a sign of PD, but it can also be a sign of many other treatable conditions so I ...
Parkinson doesn't talk9/28/2006
  Q: my husband was dignosed about 6 years ago and 1 1/2 years ago was told he was in the end stages. I ...
  A: It's hard for me to guess about your husband's diagnosis, but it certainly could be PD. He needs to ...
Shaking9/28/2006
  Q: I was wondering if parkinson comes on all of a sudden or gradualy? i am 22 years old and my hands ...
  A: PD generally comes on slowly with a gradual progression of symptoms. I would suggest you go to your ...
end stage Parkinson's Disease9/21/2006
  Q: We know that hearing is often one of the last abilities to go in a serverly ill person; what is the ...
  A: Hearing is the last sense to go but PD patients often suffer Dementia as well, so it's hard to know ...
end stage Parkinson's Disease9/18/2006
  Q: My father has Parkinson's Disease and I want to understand what should I expect the symptoms of the ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
information on parkinsons9/14/2006
  Q: my dear -father -in law has just been diagnosed with parkinson's he is 83 and up until5-6 years ago ...
  A: You need to get your FIL to a neurologist for proper assessment of his PD, also try to see if there ...
YOPD and End-Stages9/10/2006
  Q: My mom just turned 50 and is in (as far as what I can tell from your description) stage V of PD. She ...
  A: I'm so sorry to hear about your Mom, PD is a terrible disease. Unfortunately PD is a slow ...
jerking9/4/2006
  Q: What else can a person take that won't make my husband jerk all night long; he is constantly moving ...
  A: For those with mild to moderate symptoms, many physicians suggest certain lifestyle changes and ...
Parkinson's disease causes?8/27/2006
  Q: I read the answers provided about there being no definitve causes of Parkinson's. My 86 yr old ...
  A: Mayo Clinic researchers have found that using pesticides for farming or other purposes increases the ...
end stage Parkinson's disease8/27/2006
  Q: My 86 yr old mother has Parkinson's disease, dx about 4 yrs ago, but has had symptoms for at least ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Mom. If I was you I would request that the primary physician, primary ...
Blood Brain Barrier7/18/2006
  Q: and most of what ive read that cannot find a medication that crosses the Barrier. I dont understand ...
  A: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a membrane that controls the passage of substances from the blood ...
Parkinson's Stages7/14/2006
  Q: My Uncle has been battling PD for a number of years and unfortunately I think his fight is coming to ...
  A: Obviously I am speculating here, but yes it does sound to me like your Uncle could be close to the ...
End Stage Parkinson's Disease7/5/2006
  Q: My father is going through the final stages of PD. He has extreme difficulty in swallowing, ...
  A: As you say, this is a difficult and moral question - to prolong life or letnature take its course. ...
Tongue movement7/4/2006
  Q: For the past seven months I have had the feeling that I am trying to swallow my tongue, I feel that ...
  A: Are you taking any medications? The reason I ask is this symptom is common with many neuroleptic ...
medication info7/2/2006
  Q: My husband does not have parkinson's disease but I took him to a "movement disorder" specialist who ...
  A: Yes I would assume the medication very well could be causing the change in mood and behaviour as ...
parkinsons and psychosis5/31/2006
  Q: My dad is 76yo with parkinson's for 20yrs. Two weeks ago he started hallucinating. He takes 5 ...
  A: In the later stages of Parkinson's disease a patient may have cognitive side effects, or may develop ...
Info on Parkenson Disease4/25/2006
  Q: The problem with me is that when I am in a stressful situation like giving a test for a job. I ...
  A: Your symptoms do not indicate PD but are simply a result of chemicals like Epinephrine (Adrenaline) ...
End Stages of Parkinson's4/7/2006
  Q: We have been told that my father is now in the end stages of Parkinson's disease. Is there any sort ...
  A: I'm sorry to hear about your Dad. This is always a difficult question to answer, and every family ...
end stage parkinson's disease4/4/2006
  Q: I am a hospice nurse, I have a patient with Parkinson's Disease. She is bedbound, dependent for all ...
  A: Honestly I can not imagine discharging an end-stage resident because their family wants Antibiotics ...
PD diagnosis and Insurance Companies2/14/2006
  Q: Are you familiar with any info, or can you give any tips about how/where I might find info about: ...
  A: I have not heard of this specific case, nor can I fid any similar articles online. I am however ...
Motor Neurons Disease2/10/2006
  Q: My mother in law is 73 years old and has been diagnosed with motor neurons disease. She has also ...
  A: I did a Google search for "Motor Neurons Disease due to Simvastatin" and found: "Scholarly articles ...
Dropouts1/10/2006
  Q: My mum has been told by her Doc' that her falls are as a result of "dropouts", a symptom of her P.D. ...
  A: I have nevr heard of Low BP referred to as "Dropouts', but I do know that various disorders and ...
Son's constant shaking1/8/2006
  Q: My 19 year old son has severe shaking (his arm's and hands ). he has had this problem for about 9 ...
  A: PD is generally a disease people over 50 get, but some people in their 20s or 30s can get young ...
End-stage PD1/6/2006
  Q: My father (aged 85) has had PD for over a dozen years and is experiencing end-stage difficulties – ...
  A: I think the best thing to do is to request a Care Conference where you can sit down with the Doctor ...
parkinson's12/4/2005
  Q: My mother has been prescribed lodosyn. She is 78. I believe I read something some time ago about ...
  A: I reviewed Levodopa's pharmacological guidelines and did not find any warnings about geriatric doses ...
skin patch skin irritation10/31/2005
  Q: Currently there is clinical trial ongoing employing lisuride-releasing skin patches ...
  A: Although I am not familiar with this particular study or skin reaction, I am familiar with typical ...
Parkinson's8/10/2005
  Q: My grandfather died of Parkinson's. I'm 45 and have muscle twitching in my chest and upper arm in ...
  A: Unfortunately, a symptom like Muscle Spasm or Twitching could be caused by a few hundred conditions, ...
Maybe6/2/2005
  Q: I have a friend (really it is a friend) who has developed the following symptoms in order over about ...
  A: I really can't guess what's going on with your friend but I sincerely doubt it's PD as it has ...
CAT scan5/12/2005
  Q: My husband has a terrible head tic. He has had an EEG and a CAT scan but could not have an MRI ...
  A: Unfortunately, there is no diagnostic test that can confirm Parkinson's disease. Laboratory testing ...
end stages4/14/2005
  Q: I am a nurse for Hospice,a patients family is wanting info on end stages of parkinsons.I have looked ...
  A: Aside from the usual stages of death, I will do my best to compile PD-specific information for you. ...
mercury poisoning leading to Parkinson's ...4/9/2005
  Q: I have come across the above claim (about mercury poisoning leading to Parkinson's - along with ...
  A: Any living being can be affected by toxins such as Mercury, including kitties. I'm not an expert ...
Is there a vaccination for...11/29/2004
  Q: Is there a vaccination for Parkinson's disease? If so, when is it given? Is there immunity to teh ...
  A: At this time, No, there is no vaccination for Parkinson's disease No, there's no immunity to the ...
Head tremor10/28/2004
  Q: I have a question about a tremor I don't think is related to Parkinson's, but maybe you can give me ...
  A: I really can't diagnos over the internet but I can share my opinion based on 20 years of nursing. I ...

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Margot RN BScN GNC

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Please feel free to ask anything, but the more specific you are, the easier it is for me. Please share as many details as you are comfortable doing. I do check my Emails daily Monday through Friday so you should receive an answer within 24 hours on most business days. Thanks.

Experience

GERONTOLOGY (NURSING ISSUES RELATED TO THE ELDERLY) I have 25+ years experience working with the elderly. I would be pleased to offer any assistance I can. My areas of expertise include: Gerontology / Geriatrics, Long Term Care, Community Nursing, Palliative Care, Private Nursing Services, Intermediate / Extended Care. I also have a personal interest in Homeopathic and Eastern Medicine. If I can not answer your question I'll do my best to direct you to an appropriate resource. Thank you.
Experience in the area
20 years of Long Term Care and Community Nursing, specialising in Geriatrics, Gerontology and Palliative Care.

Education/Credentials
Registered Nurse , Certified Gerontological Nurse, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

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