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When these become available , there may be an opportunity , if you wish , to “ upgrade ” your system with a newer battery .
+ What if there ’ s a Parkinson ’ s cure ? Many therapies now in clinical trials have the potential to slow Parkinson ’ s progression . Should these ultimately be approved , there ’ s no reason to believe that having DBS would prevent a person from receiving them .
Remember , too , that DBS is reversible . You can turn the device off or even remove the entire system . If another treatment is preferred to or not compatible with DBS , you can discontinue DBS . off from work to fully recover . Sick leave or , for family and loved ones , FMLA , can be used for this purpose . Your neurologist or neurosurgeon can fill out necessary paperwork .
After battery placement , you may have soreness in your chest and neck . It is best to avoid heavy upper body activity or exercise for four to six weeks .
The initial programming period , which lasts about two to three months , may also require reduced home and work responsibilities as some symptoms , like dyskinesia , can temporarily worsen until the best settings are found .
Before Surgery
+ Can I participate in research ? Ask your DBS team if they are conducting research . You might be able to participate even as you pursue DBS for your personal care . Further ahead , though , many people wonder whether DBS excludes them from research . In some cases , it might . Each trial has specific criteria to ensure safety and accurate results . There ’ s concern that DBS could cloud results . But a growing number of clinicians and researchers are encouraging the field to rethink this concern and allow people with DBS to contribute more broadly .
In the meantime , there are many valuable ways to give to Parkinson ’ s research , whether you have DBS or not . You can fill out questionnaires about your experience , let researchers observe how your symptoms change with time , or give blood samples or have brain imaging tests . For Parkinson ’ s trials that need volunteers , visit foxtrialfinder . org .
+ What about my work , home and other responsibilities ? Surgery for DBS brain wire , or lead , implantation usually requires a one- or twonight stay in the hospital . Recovery from the surgery itself is typically quick . But some people may still want to take a week or more
+ What support might I need ? It ’ s helpful to have partners throughout the DBS process . People who care about you want to help and support you . Tell them directly and clearly how they can . Invite a close family member or friend to attend doctor visits , take notes and ask questions . Talk after each appointment to ensure you heard the same information . Have someone drive you to and from surgery and initial programming . Ask friends to help stock up on essentials and ready-to-eat meals for recovery periods . Allow loved ones to stay with you , prepare food , or pitch in on household duties following surgery .
Talk with your DBS team early and often to determine what support you might need and who can help . For some , home health and other resources may be an option , too .
+ Are my advance directives up to date ? Advance directives are documents that specify who can speak for you and make medical decisions if you can ’ t . They also outline what care you would or wouldn ’ t want in these situations . Before any surgery or hospitalization , it ’ s a good idea to create , review or update advance directives . Your doctor can supply this paperwork and answer questions about it .