Diagnosis & Symptoms
The diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can be overwhelming causing fear, anxiety, anger, and disappointment for the individual and the entire family. Often times, the diagnosis is accompanied by little or no information about the disease, prognosis, or its management.
PFWPA is a clearinghouse for current, well vetted information and materials on PD. For newly diagnosed and those new to our region, we maintain an up to date list of medical, allied medical and allied health professionals with specific trainings, certifications and experience working with individuals and families impacted by Parkinson’s disease.
Introduction to Parkinson’s Disease
If you are newly diagnosed, you are not alone. The PFWPA is here to help. Rely on the resources and support of the Parkinson’s community of providers, educators and exercise professionals. There are approximately 18,000 people living with Parkinson’s disease in our area. The FAQ section on Parkinson’s disease section has a wealth of useful information many patients, family and supporters find helpful.
Medication Overview
Medications most often prescribed in managing the symptoms
There are a number of medications used to treat or manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Because there are many variations in the way the symptoms present themselves, differences in individual sensitivities to the medications and treatment philosophies between physicians, treatment regimens can widely vary from person to person. This section describes common medications in detail to help you understand the benefits of PD treatments.
Managing Motor Symptoms Associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Physicians can use different medications and combinations of approved medications based on the needs of each patient and physicians’ treatment philosophy. Considerations related to the choice of medications include efficacy for symptomatic control, side effects, safety, practicality, cost and sensitivities of their individual patients.
1. Medications used for “OFF” periods are often referred to as “rescue medications” for use when there is an unexpected or anticipated return of motor symptoms despite having taken other Parkinson’s medications as prescribed. Rescue medications are not a replacement for regular management medications.
Medical Safety Forms for Persons With PD and Their Care Partners
Just a few minutes of preparation can reduce stress in the future. To get ready for a visit to a hospital or care facility, you can have everything you need for medical safety and information to take with you. Click here or the button below to connect to a helpful checklist and forms you can fill out to make life less stressful. In addition to the checklist and safety information, you will find forms related to:
Physician Letters
Special Consideration for Rytary
Deep Brain Stimulation Device
Medical Contact List
Duopa Usage
Personal Contact List
Medication Lists
By completing these forms in advance, you will know you are ready with answers for the health professionals who are there to help. Print a set of forms to leave in your car and have on hand in the even of any hospital, urgent care, or medical facility visit. PFWPA does not save or store any of your information.

Exercise
EXERCISE AND ACTIVITY are essential tools for managing motor and non-motor symptoms, providing motivation, encouragement and social engagement. There is mounting evidence that regular exercise can also help slow the progression of the disease. In addition to providing weekly exercise classes, PFWPA established the Parkinson’s Exercise and Activity Network (PEAN) to expand the number and variety of exercise programs in the region. Our vision is that every person diagnosed with PD in Western PA will have access to one of these evidence-based Parkinson’s specific classes.
