In a new episode of the Parkinson’s Life podcast, sponsored by Bial, a neurologist and a person with Parkinson’s come together to discuss how those with the condition can tackle ‘off’ periods – from holistic strategies to treatment options – and why honest communication is key
Recalling her Parkinson’s diagnosis in our latest podcast episode, ‘How to manage ‘off’ periods in Parkinson’s disease’, Canada-based Barbara Salsberg Mathews says: “It was a very difficult time in my life.”
The artist and former teacher says she had started to notice some “unusual symptoms”, such as weakness in one arm, and was referred to a neurologist to get to the bottom of what she was experiencing. When the doctor confirmed her diagnosis, Barbara admits she was shocked: “I did not expect this diagnosis”.
Like many others with the condition, Barbara takes medication to help manage her symptoms. However, she has had to get to grips with ‘off’ periods – when medication is not working optimally and both the motor and non-motor symptoms become more difficult to control.
“‘Off’ periods are an interesting phenomenon that usually happens a few years into a person’s condition,” explains Italian neurologist Dr Silvia Rota, who joins Barbara on this podcast to share her professional insight into the potential treatment options and management approaches that may help with tackling ‘off’ states.
Barbara, who experiences ‘off’ periods most days, shares some of her personal strategies – from using an app to track her symptoms to putting her hobbies into practice. “I used to be a professional mime artist, so when I create characters or illusions with my body, it really helps me override the lack of energy that an ‘off’ period gives me,” she explains.
Together, Silvia and Barbara shed light on a variety of approaches to help tackle ‘off’ states – and discuss why open communication with healthcare providers is essential.
Lead image credit of Barbara: Carrie Branovan
Parkinson’s Europe is sharing this article for information purposes only; it does not represent Parkinson’s Europe’s views and is not an endorsement by Parkinson’s Europe of any particular treatments, therapies or products.
