Parkinson's self-care leaflet

Here is information and advice about some common issues experienced by people with Parkinson’s. 

Sudden deterioration of Parkinson’s symptoms

You may experience a more rapid change in your Parkinson’s symptoms. It is unusual for this to be caused by Parkinson’s alone and therefore Parkinson’s medication changes may not help. Here is some information and advice about some common issues that may need to be addressed before contacting the Parkinson’s team. If you are unwell, please call your GP or 111.

If you are acutely unwell — for example, extremely breathless, losing consciousness or experiencing chest pain - dial 999.

Parkinson’s medications

Parkinson’s medications should not be stopped abruptly. This can be very dangerous. Common side effects of Parkinson’s medications are:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling dizzy or light-headed
  • Feeling tired and sleeping excessively during the day
  • Involuntary movements (dyskinesia)
  • Confusion
  • Hallucinations

Parkinson’s medications should be given on time, every time. If you are unsure of the times your medication should be taken, please check your prescriptions. If you are still unsure, please contact the Parkinson’s Service.

Infections

Infections can cause your Parkinson’s symptoms to be worse, you may experience confusion and feel generally unwell.  

Common infections

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

  • Passing urine more regularly
  • Discoloured or cloudy urine (some drugs may discolour urine)
  • Strong smelling urine
  • Pain on passing urine
  • Blood in your urine
  • Abdominal (tummy) or back pain

Chest infection

  • New and persistent chesty cough
  • Breathlessness or wheezing
  • Coughing up yellow or green phlegm
  • Raised temperature
  • Chest pain

Suspected infection

If you feel that you have an infection, seek medical advice from your GP in the first instance. The Parkinson’s team may be unable to help until infection has been ruled out. You will need to be free from infection before considering any Parkinson’s medication changes. Rest and drink plenty of fluids. 

Dehydration

Severe dehydration can make your Parkinson’s worse. Signs of dehydration may include:

  • Thirst
  • Dizziness, lightheaded-ness
  • Headache
  • Tiredness
  • Dry mouth, lips, eyes
  • Concentrated urine (dark yellow)
  • Passing only small amounts of urine, infrequently  It is important to drink plenty of fluids and stay well hydrated.

Constipation

Parkinson’s medications are absorbed in your bowel, so it is important to have regular bowel movements. Symptoms:

  • Hard, lumpy stool (poo)
  • Passing stool less than three times a week
  • Straining or pain
  • Stomachache, bloating, feeling of nausea.

It can be managed with fibre in your diet, fluids, and exercise. Sometimes laxatives may be required. Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice.