Some general points
Stay as active as possible.
Exercise regularly as much as you are able. This may not be possible when the condition is more advanced, but it is something to consider when symptoms are not too bad. You may walk more slowly than before, but a daily walk is good exercise and may help to loosen-up stiff muscles. Well meaning relatives or friends may tell you rest and take things easy. However, as much as possible and for as long as possible, resist the temptation for others to do things for you just because it may be quicker.
Constipation is common in people with PD. Help to reduce the chance of this by having lots to drink, and eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, and foods high in fibre.
Some drugs taken for other conditions can interfere with dopamine and make PD worse. These may be prescribed for such things as mental illness, sickness, vertigo, and dizziness. Check with your doctor if you are unsure about any drugs that you take.
Medication. Make sure you know exactly when to take your medication. Dose schedules and timings are important. A pharmacist will be able to advise and help if you have difficulty in getting tablets out of blister packs, have difficulty in remembering when to take you drugs, or have any other queries about medication. Report any suspected side-effects to your doctor. For example, hallucinations (seeing or hearing things), confusion, and mental changes are possible side-effects of some drugs used to treat PD.
Driving. If you are a driver you should tell the DVLA and your insurance company if you develop PD. Your insurance may be invalid if you do not. Depending on the severity of symptoms, you may still be allowed to drive following a medical assessment.
Depression is common in people with PD. Depression can cause symptoms which may seem as if PD is getting worse (such as lack of energy and becoming slower). If you seem to become worse quite quickly, over a few weeks or so, depression may be the cause. Tell your doctor if you suspect this. Depression can often be treated.
Some practical tips may help. For example: it is easier to get up from a high chair than from a low couch; consider using velcro fasteners instead of buttons; carrying a walking stick when you are out may increase your confidence if unsteadiness is a problem. The Parkinson's Disease Society (details below) has plenty of further advice on coping and living with PD.
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