I'm not diagnosed, but the doctors keep saying Parkinson's. I'm only twenty years old. No one in my family can believe that this is happening, and everything seems like a nightmare. I'm trying to brace myself for the possibility of that diagnosis.

How did you deal with this? I'm trying to take things one day at a time, but it's not easy.

Are you seeing a Movement Disorder Specialist, not just an MD or a neurologist. About 25% of people diagnosed with PD don't actually have it, so going to the specialist (or more than one) is really important. Several books have been published recently that can help you understand PD. Do take advantage of them. The people on this forum are committed to helping each other, so never hesitate to ask questions here. Taking things one day at a time is an excellent approach.

Hi Greenby,

There are other possible causes of Parkinsonian symptoms, what is it that flags up PD to the docs, tremor ?,slow movement ? etc. A dat.scan may help if there is uncertainty.
If it is PD then young onset (20y old) is generally a slower progression and given the amount of interest from drug companies.health authorities etc the researchers are bound to come up with at least better meds before it gets difficult. Im in my 50's, was diagnosed in 2009 and Im only just starting the proper meds....and I feel ok.
But remember "it ain't over til the fat lady sings"
Keep in touch,if it is PD then the folk on this site are a God-send"

Keeping fingers & toes crossed for you.

Nigel

If you list your symptoms , we might be of more help.
Any other health conditions ?
Any family members with PD or similar symptoms?
Any medications that may cause side effects?

It can be a shock, but don't let if define who you are.

When I was 20, during routine Physical, a Doctor had some odd questions and was asking about family history. He concluded with something to the effect, if I didn't know better I would think you had Parkinson's; but that is an old person disease". I didn't know what it was, and since there wasn't anything to do about it, just kept on going.

I was an avid cyclist. 100 mile rides were a blast. Cycled from the top to bottom of New Zealand. Went off and Cycled Ireland (more hills than I would have realized riding the rim!).

Feel in love, raised a family, worked like crazy. Last year at 55 I was given a Dx of Parkinson's, Dystonia, and Essential Tremor. I always thought the tremors was from too much coffee. After cutting out dark chocolate and coffee, tremors remained.

Bottom line. Eat right, exercise, and get a good nights sleep. That's it. Still take time to fall in love, and enjoy every day. For many of us this is a very long road, so focus on positive thoughts and enjoy the journey.