Dehyderation and Parkinson's disease

: Wed Feb 06, 2008 2:28 am Post subject: Dehydration and Parkinson's disease

Dear Doctor, Kindly brief me as follows: What is dehydration and how to prevent its effects on PD patients especially in adults? Thanks
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Dr. OkunJoined: 19 Jan 2007Posts: 251Location: University of Florida
Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2008 2:17 pm Post subject:

Sure. Dehydration is when you have not taken in enough fluids for your bodies cellular and other processes to function properly. We recommend PD patients take 6-8 glasses of water a day. We feel this may help symptomatically, especially with balance, gait and dizziness. Hope that is helpful for you._________________Michael S. Okun, M.D.
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Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2008 5:30 pm Post subject: Dehydration and Parkinson's disease

Dear Doctor,

I refer to my article I am one of the sufferer of the dehydration. As PD patient I do not realise how important water is for health.' As I do not have thirst why should I take more water after exercise in the gym ? I have learned from your reply that fliud replacement is critical to replace fluid lost when I taking a long duration exercise Besides PD medications can raise the risk for dehydration. Dehydration can lead to confusion,weakness, balance problem, respiratory failure and death. Kindly elaborate the symptoms and signs of dehydration? Thanks
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Dr. OkunJoined: 19 Jan 2007Posts: 251Location: University of Florida
Posted: Sat Feb 09, 2008 7:05 pm Post subject:

As a human you need water to survive and you are losing water all the time. As a PD patient having a low water content may cause worsening of symptoms so you need to drink lots of water before, during and after workouts and during the day. Avoid taking too much fluid with caffeine as that may not help your hydration status. People with PD and dehydration may feel lightheaded, dizzy (particularly on standing), fatigued, as well as a general worsening of symptoms._________________Michael S. Okun