How can you manage feeling unwell with nausea from medications, depression, and apathy in Parkinson's?
You're dealing with several challenging symptoms that many people with Parkinson's experience. The combination of medication side effects, depression, and apathy can make daily life feel overwhelming.
For nausea from Show Full Answer
How can you manage feeling unwell with nausea from medications, depression, and apathy in Parkinson's?
You're dealing with several challenging symptoms that many people with Parkinson's experience. The combination of medication side effects, depression, and apathy can make daily life feel overwhelming.
For nausea from carbidopa/levodopa:
Talk to your doctor about adjusting your medication timing or dosage. Taking it with a small snack (avoiding high-protein foods which can interfere with absorption) might help reduce stomach upset.
For depression and apathy:
Since your current antidepressant isn't helping, it's important to discuss this with your doctor. Depression affects at least half of people with Parkinson's and is caused by changes in brain chemistry. You may need:
- A different antidepressant or dosage adjustment
- Combination therapy (medication plus counseling)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy, which research shows can be effective for Parkinson's-related depression
For apathy specifically:
Studies have shown that dopamine agonists may help reduce apathy. Exercise and mindfulness meditation have also helped some people feel less apathetic.
A MyParkinsonsTeam member shared similar struggles: "Some days, I feel I get nothing done because all I want to do is nap."
Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team about these symptoms - they're treatable, and you deserve to feel better.
February 15
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