Thread: dystonia?
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Old 06-08-2011, 08:50 PM
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reverett123 reverett123 is offline
In Remembrance
 
Join Date: Aug 2006
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15 yr Member
reverett123 reverett123 is offline
In Remembrance
reverett123's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,772
15 yr Member
Default Harley

What I consider to be dystonia is a muscle that contracts tighter and tighter and won't release. Hurts like hell and decides to let go when it darn well suits itself. Mine shows up in the morning when I first try to walk and twists my feet and stiffens my legs. It is asymmetrical and affects my left leg more than my right even though my PD is dominant on my right. I sort of hobble and skate to my chair, take my meds, and wait. In about 15 minutes the problem dissolves away.

Because this occurs in the early part of my day and when I first get up (whether that be 4 AM or 7 AM) I often suspect that it is related to the surge of chemicals that occurs at that time (e.g. adrenaline, noradrenaline, etc).

But I have another suspect, as well. Dehydration can cause monstrous cramping and, because I use a bedside urinal, I am very much aware of fluid loss and there does seem to be a connection. Dehydration is more than just water loss. It includes problems with electrolytes such as potassium and water soluble B-vitamins. Both those are further depleted by the use of sinemet, as well. You might try those two plus some magnesium just before you would normally expect to develop problems. If it makes *any* change that could be an important clue. Good luck.
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Born in 1953, 1st symptoms and misdiagnosed as essential tremor in 1992. Dx with PD in 2000.
Currently (2011) taking 200/50 Sinemet CR 8 times a day + 10/100 Sinemet 3 times a day. Functional 90% of waking day but fragile. Failure at exercise but still trying. Constantly experimenting. Beta blocker and ACE inhibitor at present. Currently (01/2013) taking ldopa/carbadopa 200/50 CR six times a day + 10/100 form 3 times daily. Functional 90% of day. Update 04/2013: L/C 200/50 8x; Beta Blocker; ACE Inhib; Ginger; Turmeric; Creatine; Magnesium; Potassium. Doing well.
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