How can I learn more about Parkinson's disease?

Educating yourself about Parkinson’s disease is a great way to get involved in your own healthcare. The American Parkinson’s Disease Association (APDA) and the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF) are wonderful resources for accurate, up-to-date information. Enlist your friends and family members to do research, too. It will give you all something positive to do. Collect information from newspapers, magazines, and medical journals. If there is a university near your home, visit the medical school library or search for reputable resources on the Internet. Share information and learn together.

Bring articles and information to your next doctor’s appointment, so that you can discuss the findings and see how they relate to your case. You may even find that you’ve read medical journal articles before your doctor has had a chance to read them. It never hurts to be proactive when it comes to your health. Be sure that you and your family know how any prescribed medications work, what the side effects are, and which side effects you should report to your doctor. Do not take any medication, including nonprescription products such as vitamins, dietary supplements, allergy and cold medicines, pain relievers, or herbal remedies, without first consulting your doctor.