Parkinson's Disease and Dropped Head Syndrome

My 85-year old father has PD, diagnosed approximately 2004. Early this year he lost his ability to hold his head up. The onset of this condition was rapid, 2-3 weeks. We have since learned that this is known as Dropped Head Syndrome and is most common in ALS patients, but is known to occur in PD patients. Dad had been taking Mirapex, but his neurologist decided to wean him off it, as he thinks there may be a connection. Dad continues to take Stalevo (200mg 4x/day). We don't expect any improvement to the neck from not taking Mirapex - perhaps it will lessen the severity of the DHS?Dad was considering having surgery to fuse C3-C7 vertebrae, however, his neurologist advised against it, as the condition of DHS would not be cured; rather, the "drop" would occur below the fused area.Dad has both hard and soft neck braces but they really don't provide much help. His chin slips inside the brace so his head continues to drop. Tightening the brace makes it very uncomfortable for him.What is your experience with patients with PD and DHS? What treatment(s) can you recommend? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

MEDICATION

I am 4 years post diagnosis. I only take requip( ropinirole). Should I be on any additional medication as my dexterity is worsening and tremors are more prevalent in my right leg.

what can i do to help my mom?

My mom is very ill. My father is trying his best to take care of her. She seems to have gone from having parkinson's at a level of 4 (on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the worst) to a 10 in just under a year. We cannot find anyone to help us in the boca area. We have been trying and trying to get in with a neurologist that specializes in movement, filled out the requested prior paperwork, and have not gotten a call yet. It's been over a month. Any advice? Desperate to help her.



Very rapid worsening suggests an atypical form of Parkinsonism or perhaps an intercurrent illness that has caused her to decompensate.I suggest you seek the advice of an expert on Parkinson Disease in Boca:Dr. Stuart Isaacson practices as a Neurologist at Barton & Cochran Neurology in Boca Raton, FL. Call (561) 392-1818

J. Sanchez-Ramos, PhD, MD