There is now a “pump” available for Parkinson’s Disease (PD) patients. I’m supposed to be getting more info from my PD specialist soon, but here’s what I know so far. In an out-patient procedure, a tube is surgically implanted, allowing the “dope” to be delivered directly into your intestines. The pump, which is worn externally, continuously feeds the dope into your intestines. So, it sounds like you’re getting the same medication, it’s just that you’re getting a steady stream of it. Thus, it eliminates the ups and downs (i.e., the Off Periods) that many of us contend with every day.
I really don’t like the idea of having anything surgically implanted in me, but I have to change something. I got back from my latest trip almost two weeks ago. In that time, I’ve done almost nothing but lay on the couch all day, never feeling up to doing anything. Not even writing for this blog – and we can’t have that, now, can we? So, I’m thinking a tube may be in my future. I’ll keep ya posted.