[72M] Experiencing internal tremors, back ache, and other symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

• Parkinson's Disease: This is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. Symptoms often start gradually and could include tremors, balance problems, rigid muscles, changes in speech and writing, and difficulty with automatic movements like swallowing. It can also cause non-motor symptoms such as constipation, depression, and sexual problems like erectile dysfunction.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to manage symptoms, and in some cases, surgery may be an option.

• Multiple System Atrophy (MSA): This is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder affecting your body's involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, heart rate, bladder function, and digestion. It shares many Parkinson's disease-like symptoms, such as slow movement, rigid muscles, and poor balance. Autonomic problems, including erectile dysfunction and loss of bowel or bladder control, are also common.

  • There's no cure for MSA, so treatment involves managing symptoms.

• Depression: This is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person's ability to function at work and at home. Symptoms can include feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities.

  • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy), medications, or a combination of the two.

Please note that these are just possibilities. You should consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation.
2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing at the time, and how severe they are. This can help your healthcare provider diagnose your condition.
3. Stay active. Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms of both Parkinson's disease and depression.
4. Seek support. Consider joining a support group or speaking with a counselor or therapist about your feelings.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms
• You feel suicidal or have thoughts of harming yourself
• You experience severe difficulty swallowing, which could lead to choking or aspiration (inhaling food or drink into your lungs)