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| Struthers Parkinson's Center > Patient Care > Illness and Hospitalization > If You Need To Be Hospitalized |
If you need to be hospitalized
Parkinson’s disease rarely is a cause for hospitalization. But, you may need to be hospitalized for other conditions, such as pneumonia, a fracture, an infection or the need for surgery. Being in the hospital is stressful, and physical and emotional stress will increase Parkinson’s symptoms. Below are recommendations to help your hospital stay go smoothly. Check with your hospital for specific admission instructions.
Recommendations for a smooth
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Bring a list of your current medications with dosages and timing information, including those you use only occasionally, such as pain relievers or laxatives. You may want to bring along the medication bottles, so there is no confusion. |
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Request that medication times in the hospital be the same as the timing at home. Your doctor may have to write an order specifying the exact dosing times. |
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Not all hospital staff may understand "on" and "off" in Parkinson's. You may need to explain why you function differently at different times of the day. |
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Clearly state your special needs to staff. |
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Even if you are away from your room for a test or treatment, you should take your medication on time. You or your family members can help to remind the staff to bring your medications on time. |
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Medications to avoid include Haldol®, Compazine®, Reglan® and Risperdal®. If you take Eldepryl®, the pain medication Demerol® should not be used. |
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While in the hospital, you might not be seen by your regular doctors. A neurologist can be consulted if you have questions about your Parkinson's disease. The hospital doctors can consult with your regular neurologist if you have questions. |
For more information on how surgery can affect Parkinson’s disease, call the center at 952-993-5495 or toll-free at 888-993-5495.
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