Parkinson's Disease. FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is an akinetic crisis?

An akinetic crisis is understood in terms of an acute deterioration in the symptoms of Parkinson's with akinesia (lack of movement), swallowing problems and the frequently accompanying symptoms of raised blood pressure and sweating. The triggering factors are usually withdrawal from medication and/or concomitant illnesses (e.g. pneumonia or surgical intervention). This situation indicates an emergency.

What happens in the event of an anaesthetic?

Anaesthetists generally have a very good knowledge of their subject. In the event of surgery being necessary on a Parkinson's patient, in the first instance so-called regional procedures should be given consideration. In the case of general anaesthetics, Parkinson's medications should be taken in the morning as usual and the anaesthetic should be as short as possible and be planned to take place directly after taking the medication. Then as soon as possible thereafter and especially L-dopa be given as a soluble L-dopa preparation via a nasal probe and if applicable Amantadine infusions used. During the run up period, the patient is weaned onto an Apomorphine pump.

What do I have to be careful about when taking medication?

Many Parkinson's patients who have varying effects from L-dopa must take L-dopa medications more than four times a day try slavishly to adhere to the specified times. However more important than rigid adherence to these times for taking L-dopa is working around having a full stomach. L-dopa should always be taken no later than half an hour before and no sooner than 90 minutes after a main meal. It is worth observing how eating changes the effect of L-dopa preparations and discuss this with the neurologist. Protein-rich food hinders L-dopa's passage to the brain.

Professional care

Ceballos-Baumann

Prof. Dr. med.

Andres Ceballos-Baumann


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