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Atypical parkinsonism. Diagnosed less than 4 months ago. Hand tremor, gait trouble, confused at times. Then incontinence.

A MyParkinsonsTeam Subscriber asked a question 💭

Can't complete a sentence, can't stand no less walk. At he cannot feed himself. Daily activities are done me, wife. Re: bathe, needs etc. No response to levidopa. We are at 1 1/2 tabs 3x day. 1st diagnosed with possible lph, then parkinsons. Movement dr says it's atypical due to order of symptoms and no one kind of pd. Can this progress to this that fast? Can anyone relate and share? Palliative care has had 1 zoom mtg. She mentioned hospice already. I'm not sure I'm ready to just settle for the… read more

November 24, 2025
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5 Stages of Parkinson’s Progression Read Article...
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you for the understanding and sharing your thoughts. Means alot. I'm always so busy and sometimes time to read is not in the cards. try. Hope we talk again.

December 1, 2025
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Hi Michael 848. Hubbies symptoms overlap into multiple types it could be. He had a memory issuev2-3 yrs ago he had a CT and his brain looked aok. April 2025 he was diagnosed with CHF. Then his walking slowed. Stooped over. More confused state. Then incontinence. Now can't walk at all. He is pretty much
Total care now. He has a neurologist specialized in movement and palliative care. She has mentioned hospice. He talks ok but quiet and soft, slowed. He loses his place in the middle of sentence. He has had a massive heart attack, aorta replacement with complications in past. I barely know the dr but trust? I feel like she isn't giving him a fair shake but this is not curable. She seems eager to help keep him comfortable. It's just 2 much 2 fast. This is a very aggressive disease. If the 5 stages are correct I think he is late stage 4 or into 5. I'm not sure, although the dr was up front, if he grasped her words. I'm just not sure what is next or what I should do? Up his meds? Ask for alternative treatment? He has asked for no hospital and wants to remain at home. Any advice or directions is welcome.

November 25, 2025
MyParkinsonsTeam

Can atypical parkinsonism progress this quickly, and what can you expect?

This is an incredibly difficult time, and your feelings are completely valid. Yes, atypical parkinsonism can progress much faster than typical Parkinson's disease, unfortunately.

Atypical parkinsonian conditions like progressive supranuclear palsy Show Full Answer

Can atypical parkinsonism progress this quickly, and what can you expect?

This is an incredibly difficult time, and your feelings are completely valid. Yes, atypical parkinsonism can progress much faster than typical Parkinson's disease, unfortunately.

Atypical parkinsonian conditions like progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) often develop severe disabilities within three to five years of diagnosis. Unlike Parkinson's disease, these conditions don't respond well to levodopa, which explains why you're not seeing improvement despite the medication.

The rapid progression you're describing—going from initial motor symptoms to needing full assistance with daily activities in just four months—is consistent with atypical parkinsonism. These conditions typically cause more severe symptoms that worsen much faster than typical Parkinson's. A MyParkinsonsTeam member caring for their husband shared: "Each day, there is something new and different to deal with."

Your husband's symptoms—difficulty walking and standing, trouble completing sentences, confusion, incontinence, and needing help with all daily activities—reflect the severe and disabling nature of advanced atypical parkinsonism. The fact that symptoms appeared in an unusual order and don't fit one specific pattern is exactly why your movement disorder specialist identified it as atypical.

Palliative care mentioning hospice doesn't mean giving up—it means ensuring quality of life and comfort become the priority alongside any treatments. It's about adding support, not ending hope. You have every right to take time processing this and exploring what care options feel right for both of you.

November 24, 2025
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Would that mean he has had a stroke? Would lesions not show up on a CT or MRI? Appreciate all input.

December 3, 2025 (edited)
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you Ginny 😊

December 3, 2025

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