Does anyone out there experienced emotional crying spells.

[Polyanna007]

I find I cry every time someone mentions my condition of Parkinson's

[larry33b]

That is a classic sign of depression. This could be general depression of PD depression. Either way see your doctor for some meds.

[DeParkiePoet in reply to larry33b]

I know that when I take more meds I usually get worse!

[Susie01 in reply to larry33b]

I am much worse when we up the dosage of sinemet.

[quirkyme]

How long ago were you diagnosed? If a short while, it may be grief and feelings of loss, that your 'old' life and your hopes have had to be adjusted. My husband went through a period, after he retired from work, when he felt emotions strongly. We'd be watching something sad on TV and I'd turn around and see him weeping. He'd had to be strong and focused his whole life and never had time to grieve his father's death when he was 17 and his mother's death when we were in our 30s.

Since I've worked in hospice and know about loss and grieving, and dealt a lot with people with strong emotions, I figured this was part of his coping with his diagnosis. A normal process. I think of 'tears as a sort of rinsing' of old unshed tears or a release. This has proven to be so. Now, 1-2 years later, he doesn't do this. I do think it's part of the disease, emotionality. But if you are comfortable with crying and don't feel depressed, mention it to your neurologist (or doctor). But I think it's moving you to some healing.

If none of this resonates with you, please disregard what I am saying here. It's only my opinion.

[DeParkiePoet in reply to quirkyme]

Very well said!

[Polyanna007 in reply to quirkyme]

I am not comfortable with crying and really not too depressed just the everyday shaking of the mouth and tongue gets to me and I will cry at the drop of a hat. Early on Dr. gave me Zoloft 25mg. (low dose) was like a zombie and on day two felt weird, took no more. Can tolerate the twitching of tongue better than not being in control. I am going with your " tears of release" idea for now, cannot hurt, cannot cry any more!. Polyanna 007

I was diagnosed in June 0f 2012

[bigmama53]

I was diagnosed 9 years ago and the first year was tough trying to accept that I had it. Subsequent years I found it very hard not to cry when talking about my PD but latterly it doesn't seem to create this well of emotion. I think it is because for a long time I wondered why I got it. I lead a blameless life, didn't abuse my body, looked after my health, exercised, etc and I think the biggest blow was the thought that I would not be able to do all the things I planned for my retirement. You know what? PD only affects you if you let it. Nowadays I tell people I have PD and I'm happy to tell them what it means if they are interested. I think this in particular has helped me not to be so emotional. In fact I was at a recent meeting of people who wanted to know all about PD and I got such a buzz telling them about it. OK, I am not fast as I was in doing things but I still live life to the full. I wish you the very best and hope you come out at the other end soon.

[Polyanna007 in reply to bigmama53]

Dear bigmama thanks for the encouragement,

. I think my biggest problem is the " why me syndrome as. I love to sing, been in choir for years and now have lost the ability as voice is raspy now. I will try to adapt your attitude as I feel it will,help. Thanks

Polyanna 007

[Melodysam1890 in reply to Polyanna007]

This was difficult for me as well - I noticed 6 years before I was diagnosed that I was experiencing difficulty with my voice in our choir - the "softness" and the "edge" to my voice, plus the breathing was difficult to maintain ... After speech therapy, I feel my voice is stronger, but I still cannot sing in the choir (I began singing in the choir at 19 and I am now 62) ...

[TwoDogs]

Parkinson's and depression are closely linked.

In my own case the (severe) depression came before the PD diagnosis.

Either way, you need to get help with the depression - it is just as much a disease as PD, and is not something to hide away or to be ashamed of.

The first, and biggest, step in getting over depression is first to be able to admit to yourself that you are depressed!

Good luck.

[Polyanna007 in reply to TwoDogs]

Dear two.Dogs,

Thanks and I am going to get medical help as after reading the great responses it has made me see I clearly need help with this or I will

Drown inn my own tears!

[Kathleen]

Yes I did but I take Nudexa and it stopped . I take it at night before bed , I Thank God for Dr. Vasquez , he taught me more in 1 hour than the other Dr. did in 5 years, Some people get uncontrollable laughing and some get crying..

I feel like a new person I would cry in the other Drs. office and he just offered nothing . I hope you feel better soon . also I take doxepin at bedtime to sleep it is a antidepressent tryacylic( spellling is terrible)for me it works. With my work I can not be groggy with sleeping pills .. I am mot bad mouthing a Dr. just it takes the right one for you. God Bless and KEEP ON MOVING!

[Kathleen in reply to Kathleen]

I believe my work helps me to,.I see all kinds of Veterans, Agent Orange and other injuries to our men and woman and I think Who am I to complain I Thank them for my FREEDOM. and keep a positive attitude ,it is difficult at times ,but do it for your self!

[Polyanna007 in reply to Kathleen]

Dear Kathleeen.

Thanks for the input as I cry at everything it seems. Definitly going to get help from the doctor today.Polyanna 007

[Sedona]

I was diagnosed about 10 years ago and found that anytime I thought or spoke about it, that I too would cry. I tried to keep busy, told few people and tried to ignore it, assuming that at some point I would accept it and be better able to deal with it. Well, many years later nothing had changed and I was clearly getting worse, more people noticed and I was having to face it more often, still breaking down into tears. This last year I finally realized that I wasn't going to be able to deal with it, unless I faced it head on, so started talking about it more, first with my family, then close friends, then co-workers and it became easier and soon there were less tears. I think by trying to ignore it, I was unable to look ahead and see that there was and still could be, good in my life. I was just mourning and being sad about what I was losing and things that I could no longer do. Once I started focusing and planning on my future in a positive way, making new plans, focusing on what I can do, I stopped crying so much. I am not afraid to tell people that I have pd, because I live with pd, I do not suffer from pd. Though I have bad days at times and my personal crying spells once in a while when things build up or I become frustrated, I try to step back and look at all the good in my life. It really helps to find something that interests you or something you are passionate about and pursue it. I recently had to leave my job, due to worsening symptoms, but it became a positive turning point to focus on a craft that I enjoy and a new at home business. Best of luck and remember, when one door closes, another opens. You simply need to keep your eyes open and look for that other door.

[DeParkiePoet in reply to Sedona]

So true!

[Polyanna007 in reply to Sedona]

Dear Sedona:

I too have been trying desperately to stop,the well of tears but to date the bucket is still here. I have tried two meds but all they did was confuse me..

I had rather cry at this point and be in control of my mind. The lowest dose seems to mess with my mind.

Also weight gain depresses me and that is a biggie for me. Not that vain but I feel and look like Porkie Pig after gaining 22 pounds in two years. I just had ESI

For sciatica yesterday and old Porkie looks anorexic compared to me..

Not brave enough to weigh so I just vent!!!thanks for listening and undo take your advice to heart.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and a good life.

Polyanna007

[Polyanna007 in reply to Sedona]

Dear Sedona:

I too have been trying desperately to stop,the well of tears but to date the bucket is still here. I have tried two meds but all they did was confuse me..

I had rather cry at this point and be in control of my mind. The lowest dose seems to mess with my mind.

Also weight gain depresses me and that is a biggie for me. Not that vain but I feel and look like Porkie Pig after gaining 22 pounds in two years. I just had ESI

For sciatica yesterday and old Porkie looks anorexic compared to me..

Not brave enough to weigh so I just vent!!!thanks for listening and undo take your advice to heart.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving and a good life.

Polyanna007

[DeParkiePoet]

I never cried as an adult until recently, being diagnosed 10 years ago changed that. I cry all the time now. No shame, no game, I also laugh a lot more than I used to!! I think that I am just more in touch with my feelings these days. It's hard not to cry when it takes 10 minutes to put on my socks! But, I know that anti-depressants and sedative sleep-aids send me into a bad state. I broke down crying uncontrollably at a restaurant dinner with friends the day after I 'd taken a zanax to sleep. That may be just my unique bio-structure, I have no advice for you just wishes for better days. Meditation helps me! With love Joe

[Polyanna007 in reply to DeParkiePoet]

De Parkir poet:

Dear joe, after re -reading your reply over crying, I remain the town crier but

You give me hope. Ten years is a long time compared to my three now but just as exasperated as ever over it and trust me, I do Not cry Pretty like some do,

Thanks again. Shirley

Polyanna007

[Polyanna007 in reply to DeParkiePoet]

De Parkir poet:

Dear joe, after re -reading your reply over crying, I remain the town crier but

You give me hope. Ten years is a long time compared to my three now but just as exasperated as ever over it and trust me, I do Not cry Pretty like some do,

Thanks again. Shirley

Polyanna007

[shasha]

I HAVE PSP WHICH HAS THE EFFECT OF MAKING ME LAUGAH UNCONTROLABY AND CRY OVER THE DAFTEST THINGS - AT THE MOMENT I CAN LAUGH A LOT MORE THAN CRY !!

[Coblrman]

Recent study shows a link between Parkinson's depression and inflammation of the brain. I've just started a diet of supposed anti-inflammation foods to see if it helps. Thought you might want to know coffee and Dark chocolate are some of them for you dark chocolate and coffee lovers. Don't know if they actually help but enjoy the medicine. I'm dealing with parkinsons depression, my wife divorcing me, my father's death, and an out of state move all at the same time.

[cheerspark]

I am weepy out of frustration of unable to do things & sometimes of over concern from others. I did not hide my problems but their good intention make me feel I am incapable & misunderstood.

[mjc0827]

Depression is a characteristic side effect of living with Parkinson's and crying is sometimes problematic with having depression. Myself and others experience this and have found that DBS increases the symptom. Science tells us that the decreased amount of Dopamine in our brains means a decrease in Serotonin as well. Produced along with Dopamine, this is the happy juice that keeps us sane. Awareness is the key to recognizing when we feel down or blue and overcoming the obstacles for happiness. If you experience depressed thoughts or apathy or any strong, out of the ordinary emotional feelings, consult your doctor.

[SAMOCT23]

My husband of 43 years has been diagnosed and treated since 2009 for Parkinson's. He does this sometimes. I understand from reading about Parkinson's online research that's it's fairly common and so is depression with Parkinson's. My husband mainly seems to have crying spells if he has had a particularly rough day or time with stress, family problems,etc. He is also a very frustrated man about his condition as he was always a very hardworking man who worked at outdoor heavy physical labor type jobs; construction engineers in Army and Skilled Trades Labor in Georgia State Parks. HIs inability to still work really bothers him. God seems to have very difficult tests in life for some of us. I try to be supportive to my husband as his caregiver, and encourage him to feel better and "count his blessings".

[LeeB]

Sorry, but people are too quick to label emotional reactions as depression and it's then a case of reaching for the pill bottle. Ive been diagnosed for almost five years and I find that sometimes I feel Sorry for myself and cry. I sometimes get bad mood swings and I shut myself away, play music and cry my eyes out. This can be a full 24 hours but I know what's happening and I bring myself out of it with the help and support of my family. Unfortunately some GP's are so stretched that the happy pills are the easy option for them too. That's not a snipe at GP's for whom I have the greatest respect. If you need someone to help by all means ask for it, but don't go for the pills as a pal find a Parky Pal to help you through the bad patches and that could be someone very close by you. If I've repeated someone else I'm sorry but in a rush to go out.

[Polyanna007 in reply to LeeB]

[Polyanna007 in reply to LeeB]

I think after reading your input that I too have a emotional problem that depression pills do not cover. True, Happy Pills are not a answer to every distress in life. I also am not speaking ill of any GP but many think we are there for the " Happy Pill". Not so in many cases, just want to understand how we can help our self with a little physicians guidance .PD is NOT for the faint of heart.

Polyana007

[PatV]

I never cry. I wish I could.

[judam9 in reply to PatV]

hi pat V. i'm with you, i never cry . i feel bad about reading about cruelty to animals, or any one. but just can't cry. it seems not such a big deal , but when you are at the funeral of a very good friend. i feel like i look pretty cold, and not caring. even when my last dog had to be put down. i think i felt one tear roll down my face. it can be very embarrassing. . at least it's better then uncontrollable laughing

[PatV in reply to judam9]

I do remember having a good cry after I had to drink 3 quarts of lemonaid before a sonogram. One sad nostalgic song and the excess water came out as tears. But it's not practical and I'd have to start wearing Depends!

[Polyanna007 in reply to PatV]

Dear PATV, Good to know you have your humor left, mine is slowly leaving and I have to practice on that for sure as HUMOR is like the breath of life to MANY.

Forget the depends and leave out the Lemonade ! Have a great day

Polyanna007

[PatV in reply to Polyanna007]

thanks, you too

[Dennis]

I am grateful for these post which I can relate to very well. Where it came from I know

not but sometimes I will just start crying. Sometimes it is brought on by pain. Other

times I can watch the news and cry over some news report. Then there are times

I think of negative things in the pass that force their way in my mind andd I cry. The

end of 2013 due to parkinsonism I was forced to retire causing me to retire from

my employment and move from a home and all expenses paid to a house I had to

buy. In the move I left 100's of friends. Everyday there is pain. Thanks for taking

time to read my post. ~~ Dennis

[Polyanna007 in reply to Dennis]

Dear Dennis:

I can feel your pain and cry baby me has resorted to the back of church due to tears all the time. Just anything it seems sets me off. I too have quit work and now work from home. I now take an anxiety pill before going anywhere and it seem to have helped everywhere but at church or if someone asks me how I am feeling , then it is tear city again Hang in there my friend as I feel

better days are coming, God is good............. At least my husband understands and that helps loads

Polyanna007

[Traveller1]

Snap, I was diagnosed with PD last year at the age of 56. I don't smoke, I went to the gym most evenings after working full time as a Respiratory Nurse. Why me ? I asked. Well it's taken a while , but why not !! Some days I could burst into tears in the supermarket, I feel overwhelmed by the diagnosis. But I have a new job , part time as a triage nurse, I go to the gym, but Pilates instead of spin. Not going to let PD ruin my life, all the time I think about what I used to do, I'm missing out on the present. So go ahead cry, there's no shame in it, part of the mourning process and THE HEALING. x

[Polyanna007 in reply to Traveller1]

Traveler 1 Thanks. I too am a retired nurse and can relate. I too have to accept this and quit having my own little pity party, Thanks for you input, it helps to be able to relate to other situation and occupations that others have had to leave for PD.

Polyanna007

[driller]

Yes you should speak to your DR and do it sooner then later.

Regards

ERIC

[Polyanna007]

Dear Driller:

spoke with doctor, more pills was the answer and I have NO LUCK with anti-depressants as I am one of those that medication works in reverse. I am fortunate that Ropinirole has worked so far (generic Requip family).

I have to get a handle on this as I have become more irritable as the days wear on. The slightest thing sets me off, especially if I am tired 007and a full meal is wanted not a sandwich!

Polyanna007

[JohnPepper]

Yes! I am unable to talk about certain emotional issues, or watch a sad movie or sing certain songs without my throat blocking up. I am not able to do anything about it. My family understand me and my friends do the same. Maybe a good cry does us good!

[Dennis]

I too have "crying spells" not only over PD. It could be part of parkinson's. Then I was told

crying/wheeping spells is indeed part of parkinson's. Perhaps a close friend, someone to

listen rather that lecture. I will from time to time cry for little reason known to me.

[Polyanna007]

To all my posting friends of 10 months ago I want to say THANKS !

Today I still cry buy today my Neurologist increased the meds.!!!!

Thanks again, polyanna007

[Hikoi in reply to Polyanna007]

Sounds like things are getting a bit better, thats great. Hope the meds increase helps too.

[Polyanna007]

To all my posting friends of 10 months ago I want to say THANKS !

Today I still cry buy today my Neurologist increased the meds.!!!!

Thanks again, polyanna007

[Polyanna007]

Hikoi:

Thanks for the response. And. Will let you know how it works with Requip increase.

Hopefully it will set in shortly. I will post how it is doing. This thread is a real blessing to me. I am still unsteady , poor balance, but have slowed movements down and TRYING

To learn to Think before I go in and out doors, my main problem. Again thanks

Polyanna007

[Polyanna007]

Hikoi:

Really forgot number one Balance but ,eee Still Crying!

Thanks again

Polyanna0073

[Hikoi in reply to Polyanna007]

Yes I just noticed 10 months crying is a long time not only for you but for your family too. I dont agree with people who say it is not due to PD im afraid Polyanna because it is a very common early symptom and also its well known that 40% or more people with PD have this problem. low mood is very common in Parkinsons due to the lack of dopamine. Often it is worse just before medication is due so we can go up and down in mood all day. As Blondir said in another thread talk therapy is useful, but not enough for some people. i guess as a nurse you will know all this. I wonder what you would suggest to one of your patients who had felt sad for this long. Maybe that is the right answer for you too. All the best.