Hi Timothy, keep sharing with your doctor that you are not sleeping. This issue should be vigorously addressed. For your safety and others on the road, you should stop driving for now.
Make sure you have a Parkinson’s doctor ( one that specializes in Parkinson’s disease) or a Neurologist who treats Parkinson’s patients. This is your first choice in getting the proper treatment and prescribing medication that you will need throughout this progressive disease. Your primary care doctor can help you find the correct specialized Parkinson’s doctor. This doctor can get you on the correct medications and a specialized treatment plan for you.
Prayer is my life line, too. This is a rocky road. I think we both are on the same track. Keep up with us. There’s a plethora of Parkinson's knowledge in this forum. Here’s wishing you all the best!
I have fallen asleep 3 times on my way to the hospital. I do get startled when I wake and find that I am across 2 lanes of six that are full of cars all going the same direction as I am. I have also fallen asleep many times when I had company that paused too long while talking. Sleep deprivation can cause that. I now have to ask my wife or a friend to drive me anywhere that takes more than half an hour of driving time. I average about 2 hours sleep per night. I have tried every sleep medication that my doctors have prescribed. Each medication has decreased my sleep time even more.
I do a lot of praying, and I know God is listening to me and protecting me because I would not be alive now without HIS intervention. I encourage you to continue to find what works for Jim. Sounds like he needs a Miracle. Be sure to buil a family of close friends to help you in the time of need.
Jim has fallen asleep while people talk to him too, but he doesn't startle awake. I'm not sure if he's even aware he's fallen asleep.
I think it is a good idea to stop driving if you have no control over falling asleep suddenly. I remember reading that somebody on this forum has problems with narcolepsy. I don't know what treatment is available, but your doctor should know.
Thanks Ginny. This is actually falling asleep for a few seconds then waking with a start. Not just in the evening but in the morning or when I’m driving, which is scary, and has meant I’ve stopped driving temporarily until it gets resolved. I’m also falling asleep for a few seconds while someone is talking to me.
My husband will drift in and out in the evenings when we are watching TV. It isn't really a problem.