Due to the wide range of symptoms Parkinson's patients manifest, some
of them naturally overlap, making it difficult for any doctor to diagnose.
Fatigue being a common symptom not just of Parkinson's but many disorders, can
be viewed as the patient being apathetic or depressed. There is a huge
difference between fatigue, depression and apathy, none of which should be
bundled together or confused. Depression can be treated with various
antidepressants, but if wrongly diagnosed and the patient is suffering fatigue
and apathy, then the antidepressant is not going to work. I believe it is
therefore crucial, when seeing your neurologist, to paint a clear picture (and
I don't mean arrive at his office with easel, paints and brushes) but to express
in the best way you can exactly what you are experiencing, being open and speaking
honestly about your concerns. This is where you have to be your own advocate,
for although it is advisable to attend all doctors appointments with your
caregiver, spouse or someone close, they may have a very different view on this
particular element of the disease.
Masking also can give the impression that a person looks bad tempered,
cross or down - when in fact their mood might be perfectly fine, simply the
"masking effect" projects a different picture. When I feel my face
freeze, I know I have a blank expression as if I don't know what's going on
around me, yet my mind is sharp, I have complete clarity, and am able to
express myself whether speaking or writing. In other words, don't jump to
conclusions and judge when you are in the company of someone with Parkinson's.
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