The most problem I have is with eyelid apraxia. With a little wind or cool air on the bicycle my eyelids drop down and I have to open them with my left finger. Luckily at home and driving a car this problem does not occur.

Do you have any experience with that problem? I really hope you have!

Thank you so much for your mails.

You do great work!

Hans

As you so clearly describe, eyelid apraxia (ALO) is a movement disorder that makes it difficult to open the eyelids. It is found among less than 1% of persons diagnosed with the symptoms of Parkinsons disease.

Possible Cause of Eyelid Apraxia

Eyelid Apraxia can be a side effect of the medication Levodopa which is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It can also be caused by deep brain stimulation (DBS).

So, one cause to consider (among others) is that the apraxia might be triggered by the side effects of taking Levodopa itself or perhaps modifications to your dosage. Several case studies suggest that withdrawal from Levodopa might cause a symptom of the type of  apraxia you describe.

Does this at all resonate with you? If so, investigate this possibility with your doctor to see if some medication modifications might be indicated.

Robert Rodgers, Ph.D.
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery