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Patients with Parkinson's disease experience unique problems that
may cause certain anxieties or fears. Added to the normal stresses
of everyday life, these problems may become a heavy burden for
patients. Following are some suggestions to help cope with these
problems and the anxieties they can cause.
Freezing
Step over something to get yourself started again -- having someone
put his/her foot in front of you so you can step over it can be very
helpful
Slowly rock from side to side to get moving again
Counting to yourself when you walk may help to ease the process
Drooling and Salivation
Suck on hard candy, lozenges, and sourballs, or chew minty chewing
gum to help control salivation
Drink through a straw to strengthen the muscles of the lips, mouth,
and throat
Sleeping
Objects such as a stationary pole or a trapeze bar can be installed
to help you rise from bed
Try sleeping in a reclining chair instead of a bed to eliminate
sleep problems
Turning in bed is easier with satin sheets and silky pajamas
If your jaw slams shut while sleeping, use a mouth protector to help
stop tongue biting
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