Apokyn concerns

[Ropadopa]

This past year my husband has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. My Parkinson’s was under control with carbidopa/levodopa 50-200, and pramipexole 1.5mg. But the anxiety and stress over my husband negated the medication. So my neurologist put me on Apokyn. I found it worked first thing in the morning but that was it. Then the side effects started increasing: rapid heart rate, compulsive behaviors, injection sites reactions, falling asleep without warning and with no control, and nausea. I finally decided to try meditation and mindfulness and I stopped taking the Apokyn. My meds seem to be working better . I firmly believe that overcoming the anxiety through meditation and mindfulness has been better for my health than the Apokyn. And I can drive again because I no longer have episodes of uncontrollable sleep.

[park_bear]

I agree

[ddmagee1]

I am so truly sorry to hear about your husband’s very serious illness. Your anxiety is understandable! I can sure relate! My wife is in heart failure, has diabetes, and metabolic syndrome! A couple years ago, her Docs said she didn’t have too many years left. That has caused a lot of anxiety for me! I have PD, Anaemia, Cerebellar Ataxia, and severe osteoarthritis, and , as if that isn’t enough to deal with, I am my wife’s caregiver! I do most everything around the house, because my wife has a lot of trouble breathing, and does not get enough oxygen. Of course, I always put her first, and do the best I can! I push myself to get through dealing with stiffness, tremors, and all the other symptoms of advancing PD, in order to get all the work done around the house, and take care of my wife. The anxiety and some irritability and frustration sometimes almost gets the best of me! I try to keep a positive attitude, in spite of everything! I’m disappointed in the lack of support I get from the medical community, when I try to explain and confide to my Docs, how difficult things, can get at times! Especially since the COVID epidemic started, apathy seems to prevail, so I get most of my support from HealthUnlocked.com, where fellow PD sufferers have been very supportive. Keep on keeping on, is my motto. Never complain, never explain seems to be the best approach around most of my relatives. Seemingly, most of them could care less about me, or my problems! So, thanks to all in this blog, who are so supportive, and who I consider my friends! Happy New Year, everybody!

[Ropadopa in reply to ddmagee1]

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. You are an amazing man. Very dedicated and loving.

[NuroMod in reply to Ropadopa]

Good on you - keep up the spirit.

[Ropadopa in reply to NuroMod]

thank you

[ddmagee1]

thank you! I appreciate your support! It makes all the difference, in terms of being able to cope on a daily basis, when one has other people’s support!