Are You at Risk of Coronavirus with Parkinson'S Disease?

1. Are you at risk of coronavirus with Parkinson's disease? These are unprecedented times. The COVID-19 outbreak is evolving every day and will change our lives forever. The World Health Organisation has said that people who have chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe symptoms when contracting coronavirus. Many people are feeling concerned. If you - or someone in your care - suffers from Parkinson’s Disease, you must be feeling anxious at this time. You would like to know if you are at increased risk of contracting coronavirus. This article contains important information to help you understand the impact of this virus on your condition. It is important for you to know about the necessary precautions you –as a Parkinson’s patient - should take to protect yourself against the virus. Am I at ‘risk’? COVID-19 is a lower respiratory illness caused by a new virus and is transmitted from one person to another. Based on what health authorities know about the coronavirus, elderly people - especially those above the age of 60 - are at a higher risk of attracting a serious infection, generally due to their weaker immune system. Those with pre-existing conditions like heart and lung disease, diabetes and neurological disorders have an increased risk of severe illness if they contract coronavirus. These conditions include also Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s Disease patients arenot at greater risk of catching coronavirus, though. But they do have an increased risk of severe symptoms. Since most people suffering from Parkinson’s Disease belong to the older age bracket, you are in the more vulnerable category. Your body is less capable of fighting off illnesses that are caused by bacteria and viruses. For Parkinson's Disease this is best explained by an increased unbalance of the body's immune response. This results in more severe symptoms and infections, like pneumonia. It is not yet known how the virus might affect a person with Parkinson’s. Someone with COVID-19 would probably see an increase in their usual symptoms - such as having more difficulty moving or more ‘off’ time - since any infection can temporarily worsen the Parkinson’s symptoms. In some cases, Parkinson’s can cause respiratory complications. If you have advanced Parkinson’s or have lived with the condition for a long time, you are more likely to have breathing and respiratory difficulties. Since the Coronavirus affects your lungs and airways, a Parkinson’s patient is at greater risk. Do I need to take extra precautions?

2. You don’t need to take any extra precautionscompared to those who don’t have Parkinson’s, but you still need to take all necessary and sensible precautions as recommended by health experts. These precautions have been defined in the chapter: " How can I protect myself?" below. Make a plan with your doctor The best course of action at this time is to discuss with your GP about the options you have, to help you manage your condition until Covid-19 is contained. The impact of the virus may force you to go in self-isolation or quarantine for a while, so it’s best to stock up on your required medication for at least 90 days. Also, while you are staying at home, stay active and keep exercising as much as you can to maintain muscle strength and flexibility, which is very important to do this for Parkinson’s patients. What can I do to protect myself? Take the following precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones against COVID-19.  Wash your hands Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds per wash, which is enough time to sing the birthday song twice. If you are unable to wash your hands frequently, perhaps due to impaired motor functions caused by your condition, use an antibacterial hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol content.  Avoid touching your face Another preventive measure recommended by experts is to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth unless you have just washed your hands.  Self-distancing It is important to limit contact with people outside of your home as much as possible. This virus is highly contagious, especially in close proximity of an infected person. The recommended guidelines encourage people to maintain a distance of at least 1.5m between yourself and others, although best practice is to avoid physical social interactions altogether, especially if you are part of the elderly population.  Clean frequently touched surfaces This includes doorknobs, remote controls, mobile phones, kitchen benchtops, etc. The virus can survive on surfaces for days, so sterilizing everything in your living space at least once every day, or every other day, is also recommended.  Avoid Going Outdoors At this time, the advice for people with Parkinson’s is to stay at home.

3. As you are self-isolating, what can you do to get your groceries? Use delivery services offered by Coles,Woolworths, IGA or your local grocery shop,and pharmacies, to order your necessities. Otherwise, ask a family member or carer to do the shopping for you.  Know the coronavirus symptoms If you experience respiratory problems, a fever, dry cough, shortness of breath or chest pain, speak to your healthcare professional. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking cough or cold medications as they can interfere with your regular Parkinson's medications.  Stay in touch We know these recommendations and guidelines will mean a lifestyle change for you. To help encourage a positive mind set, it is important to look after yourself. Practise self-care with a healthy lifestyle and stay in touch using your phone or video apps. Support and friendship are very important right now. Keep in touch with family and friends or find a community group to connect to, now that you are spending less time with others. Telehealth and Parkinson’s In response to COVID-19, the Australian Department of Health has announced a temporary Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) telehealth services to ensure you can still access your healthcare professional without leaving home. What does that mean? Communication technologies have been implemented to allow you to see a medical professional remotely. You can now speak to your GP, Parkinson's healthcare team, nurse and mental health professionals via phone or video online, from the convenience of your home. As a patient, you will be able to access essential health services while reducing the risk of exposure to Coronavirus. This temporary service will be available until the 30th of September for all Australians with a chronic condition with a Medicare Card. Those with a concession card will be bulk-billed for these telehealth consultations. GP practises will remain open to protect patients whose conditions require a face-to-face service. Contact your healthcare professional and discuss your options. Staying up-to-date on coronavirus If you would like to keep up to date on coronavirus, visit the Department of Health Website. For specific information on Covid19, call the national helpline for advice: 1800 020 080. The service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We would advise staying tuned for information and advice on the condition with Parkinson's Australia or you can call the National Helpline for Parkinson's on 1800 644 189 Conclusion

4. The entire world is going through a difficult time right now. If you, or someone in your care, is suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, you might be concerned about how this disease will impact you. So far, there is no evidence to suggest that patients with Parkinson’ s are at greater risk of contracting the coronavirus. However, Covid-19 may worsen the coronavirus or Parkinson's symptoms. Remember, don't forget to consult your GP about the actions you need to take at these dire times. Stay smart, stay safe, stay healthy! Visit: https://www.bettercaremarket.com.au/