1. How to manage a deterioration in your symptoms if you have Parkinson’s
If feeling unwell consider contacting your GP
otherwise, have your Parkinson's symptoms become noticeably worse within the last 2/3 weeks including tremor, slowness of movement , stiffness or change in memory, confusion, hallucinations, falls, dizziness
If yes consider the following
You may have an infection?
Your GP may want to:
Test your urine if you have urinary symptoms.
Examine your chest if you are coughing or your
breathing is problematic.
Examine your skin for redness, rashes or skin damage.
Take your blood pressure (if you are falling a lying
& standing measurement will be required).
Take your blood to investigate further.
Are you constipated ?
Has it been more than 2/3 days since you last opened your bowels?
Have you taken or been given any new medications within the last month?
Check it is not one of the medications to avoid in Parkinson’s (see overleaf).
Are you experiencing some medication side effects?
Are you taking the Parkinson's medication correctly as prescribed?
e.g.: is it the correct name, route, dose, and medication and taken at the right time.
Yes
Yes
Yes No
If you are found to have an infection
Once it is successfully treated you should generally return to your normal level of functioning & your Parkinson's medication will not need to be changed during this time.
NB: It could take a couple of weeks for symptoms to settle.
If you have ongoing concerns with your bladder you may wish to contact your local Continence Adviser for support
Constipation present
Consider increasing;
your fluid intake to 1.5 litres per day,
your dietary fibre intake.
With no improvement discuss with your GP. You may need to start a laxative or if currently taking, change to one which is going to be more effective.
Consider using a medication aid to prompt medication times e.g. pill timer, dossette box.
Contact a professional if you need further support (see below)
Your options for support:
1. Community Pharmacist 2. GP or Parkinson's Consultant
3. Parkinson's Nurse Specialist
Bristol South
Bristol North , West, Inner city and East
South Glos
North Somerset –
Authors
Kay Baggley, Kathryn Prout,
Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists.
Adapted from Barnes, L,PDNS, Peninsula Community Health
01/17 Review date 01/19
Support for possible increased social care needs/carer stress
Consider contacting Care Direct
Carers Centre
South Gloucestershire Social Services