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Do Benign Essential Tremors Require Consultation With A Neurologist?
My mother was diagnosed with Parkinson s several years ago while in her late 50 s/early 60 s, but then a few years ago the neurologist withdrew the diagnosis because she did not have cog-wheel rigidity. His new diagnosis, benign essential tremors, but is still treating with Levadopa/Carbedopa. My mother has continued to decline over the last few years. She has lost a significant amount of weight, has a difficult time with maintaining her train of thought, and is now experiencing hallucinations and uncharacteristic behaviors. Should we look for another neurologist, or a different specialist all together?
Wed, 17 Jan 2018
Hello!
Welcome on Healthcaremagic!
I read carefully your question and understand your concern.
You should know that her symptoms could be related to levo dopa adverse effects. From the other hand, levodopa is not effective in the management of benign essential tremor. But as she has been taking levodopa for a long time, she may have drug induce parkinsonism. Coming to this point, it is necessary consulting with another neurologist for a physical exam and some tests (brain MRI, blood lab tests including blood electrolytes, thyroid hormone levels, etc.), some cognitive tests,etc.. in order to make the right diagnosis and discuss the proper treatment options based on her clinical situation.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
Kind regards, Dr. Aida
Welcome on Healthcaremagic!
I read carefully your question and understand your concern.
You should know that her symptoms could be related to levo dopa adverse effects. From the other hand, levodopa is not effective in the management of benign essential tremor. But as she has been taking levodopa for a long time, she may have drug induce parkinsonism. Coming to this point, it is necessary consulting with another neurologist for a physical exam and some tests (brain MRI, blood lab tests including blood electrolytes, thyroid hormone levels, etc.), some cognitive tests,etc.. in order to make the right diagnosis and discuss the proper treatment options based on her clinical situation.
Hope you will find this answer helpful!
Kind regards, Dr. Aida
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