GP Visit 9/12/2023

On Tuesday 9/12/2023 I had my quarterly visit with my GP. We all have these meetings, some more frequently than not. For me, I meet with my GP quarterly, my Nephrologist monthly, my dentist three times a year, my podiatrist quarterly, have a retinopathy check once a year, etc. I am a system of doctor’s appointments.

While we discussed many things, like how many pets we both have, here are the most salient points:

1. I agree to change the tolerance on the bounds in my CGM to 150 hi and 70 low from 170 hi and 70 low. This puts a tighter upper bound on my Time in Range readings imputing tighter diabetic control.
2. I have not had an eye exam for glasses or a hearing exam (I use hearing aids) for approximately three years. He chided me and we agreed that I have to start having these exams yearly. The problem for me is that I go to the VA for eyes and ears and it involves a long drive into Dallas/Fort Worth traffic, long queues to even obtain an appointment, and in general being treated with total indifference once there. The VA is not a nice place in my experience, regardless of what politicians would lead you to believe.
3. My wife has noticed that around the house I tend to shuffle when walking. Not picking my feet up. I discussed this with my GP and he diagnosed this tendency as potentially the start of Parkenson’s Disease. I explained that it is only around the house, and not while on my daily dog walk, etc. We agreed to continue to watch and report on this new portal into my life. He did say there are no magic bullets in this area.

Since I am now under the shadow of Parkinson’s along with all my other baggage, I felt it necessary to learn more about this ailment. I queried my AI assistant Poe with the following results:

Poe Assistant

Title: Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: A Guide to the Neurological Disorder

Introduction:
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Named after Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the condition in 1817, Parkinson’s Disease primarily impacts the part of the brain responsible for movement. This blog entry provides a concise overview of Parkinson’s Disease, its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is characterized by the gradual degeneration of specific brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger involved in controlling movement. As dopamine levels decrease, the brain’s ability to regulate and coordinate body movements becomes impaired, resulting in a wide range of motor and non-motor symptoms.

Common Symptoms:
The most recognizable symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease include:

1. Tremors: Involuntary shaking or trembling, often starting in the hands, fingers, or limbs.
2. Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement, making simple tasks more time-consuming and challenging.
3. Rigidity: Stiffness of muscles, leading to limited range of motion and difficulty with mobility.
4. Postural Instability: Impaired balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls.
   Other non-motor symptoms may include depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes, and gastrointestinal issues.

Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease remains unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role. Some risk factors associated with the development of Parkinson’s Disease include advancing age, family history of the condition, exposure to certain toxins, and certain genetic mutations.

Treatment Options:
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, various treatment options aim to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life. These may include:

1. Medications: Dopamine replacement therapies and other medications help alleviate motor symptoms and manage dopamine levels.
2. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): Surgical implantation of a device that delivers electrical impulses to targeted areas of the brain to control tremors and other symptoms.
3. Physical Therapy: Exercises and movement techniques that improve flexibility, strength, and balance.
4. Occupational Therapy: Strategies to enhance daily living activities and maintain independence.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.

Conclusion:
Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic neurological disorder that affects movement and quality of life. While there is no cure, early diagnosis, and a comprehensive treatment approach can significantly improve symptom management and help individuals with Parkinson’s Disease lead fulfilling lives. As ongoing research continues to deepen our understanding of the condition, it is crucial to raise awareness, support those affected, and promote advancements in treatment and care for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease.

And now we all know more “for don’t you see.”