Handling PD Episodes🥶
How to Handle a Parkinson's Episode When It Occurs
A Parkinson’s disease episode can manifest in various ways, such as tremors, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), or even a sudden freezing episode where a person feels like their feet are stuck to the floor. Knowing how to respond during such episodes is crucial for both the individual experiencing them and their caregivers. Here are some practical steps to handle a Parkinson’s episode when it occurs:
1. Stay Calm and Reassure
During a Parkinson’s episode, staying calm is key. If you're a caregiver or bystander, offer reassurance to the person experiencing the episode. Anxiety can make symptoms worse, so providing a calm presence can help reduce stress.
2. Ensure Safety
If the person is having difficulty moving or balancing, guide them to a safe area or sitting position to prevent falls or injury. Avoid sudden movements or jerks, as these can exacerbate symptoms. If they are freezing, encourage slow, deliberate steps and offer physical support if needed.
3. Offer Support with Movement
If the person is freezing or having trouble moving, encourage them to take small steps or shift their weight from one foot to another. Some individuals find it helpful to "rock" gently back and forth to break the freeze. Providing a physical prompt, like gently touching their arm or hand, can help them get moving again.
4. Use Levodopa or Other Medications With Doctor Approval
If the episode is related to a "wearing-off" effect (when medication wears off), ensure that their next dose of levodopa or other prescribed medications is taken on time. If they have been prescribed any rescue medications for off periods, such as an apomorphine injection or inhaled levodopa, now is the time to use it.
5. Encourage Deep Breathing
If anxiety or stress is contributing to the episode, help the person focus on deep breathing exercises. This can help relax tense muscles and calm the nervous system, which may ease the severity of the symptoms.
6. Check for Other Contributing Factors
Sometimes, external factors like dehydration, fatigue, or an infection can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms. Ensure the person is well-hydrated, has eaten, and is resting in a comfortable position. If the episode is prolonged or unresponsive to typical interventions, it may be helpful to contact a healthcare provider.
7. Contact Healthcare Providers if Necessary
If the episode lasts longer than expected or seems particularly severe, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional. In some cases, the person may require a change in medication or an adjustment in their care plan.
Handling a Parkinson’s episode requires patience, support, and awareness of the person's individual needs. By staying calm, ensuring safety, offering physical or emotional support, and administering appropriate medication, caregivers can help minimize the impact of the episode and improve the person’s comfort. Always be vigilant and communicate with healthcare providers when necessary to ensure the best care.
Have you ever had to deal with this? Do you have a go to method that seems to work better then others? Let me know in the comments and always keep that smile Smiling!