Disease Care

Here are some guidelines for managing the symptoms of Parkinson's:

Tremors

Tremors can range from mild to severe and can affect daily activity. To help control tremors:

• If possible, when tremors begin, try lying the person on the floor, face down, and relaxing the body for 5 to 15 minutes (a caregiver might need to assist the person.)
• To control tremors in the hand or arm when it is in use, press the affected elbow against the body to stabilize the upper arm. Then perform the movement as quickly as possible.

Freezing (motor blocks)

Freezing, or a sudden loss of mobility, can be very disabling, especially when it affects walking. Here are several tips to help during a freezing episode:

• Focus on a specific target on the ground, a few feet away. (Some people use a hand-held laser pointer to create a target.)
• Place a cane or walking stick on the floor in front of the person and have them step over it.
• Make the first step a precise, stiff-legged, marching-type step, with a long stride.
• Tell the person to tap his or her toes for a few moments.
• Shift weight from side to side for a moment, and then resume walking with a big first step.

Bladder function

Urination often becomes a long-term problem in people with Parkinson's. Starting or controlling urination may be difficult. Or people will develop urinary retention (inability to pass urine). Medications can help. Some people also require a catheter. Here are some tips to help with incontinence:

• Establish a bathroom schedule with frequent stops, especially before or after meals and before bed.
• Make sure clothing is easy to open and remove. Zippers and buttons can be replaced with Velcro. Sweat pants and other clothing with elastic waistbands are easier to remove and keep clean.
• Place a portable commode near the bed at night.

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