27forParkinsons:Day 18
Diagnosis of Parkinson's con't
Diagnostic Investigations
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will be carried out to rule out other neurological conditions which may resemble Parkinson's.
Computerised tomography (CT) does not reveal any Parkinson's related changes but will rule out structural abnormalities which may result in Parkinson's like symptoms.
Functional neuroimaging (SPECT and PET) are used overseas in research-based projects and are now used more often in clinical practice in Australia to assist with diagnosis.
Levodopa Response
An improvement in symptoms following the introduction of levodopa or a dopamine agonist is regarded as a positive indication that a correct diagnosis has been made. However, up to 50% of people with Atypical Parkinsonism may initially show a positive response which will not be maintained in the long term
Impact of Diagnosis
Reactions to the diagnosis will vary greatly from anger to disbelief and it is recommended that support and education are sought. The emotional impact of receiving the diagnosis is much greater than the physical limitation of the condition at this stage.
Having a partner or family member diagnosed with Parkinson's will also impact on loved ones. This will result in their own emotions as they come to terms with the diagnosis and the future.
For us receiving the diagnosis was almost a relief - finally 'all the dots were joined and we had answers - unfortunately, and this may be due to the restrictions of Covid we received no information or education on what lay ahead of us. It is only now through this challenge I'm understanding ...
Dull grey day again - seemed to match how I was feeling all day - Mondays just don't bring me any pleasant mail ... did manage to sell my Kogan smartwatch on Buy Swap and Sell and possibly made a new friend ... now I just need to get organised and sort out the 'stuff' in the garage ..
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