In a new episode of the Parkinson’s Life podcast, sponsored by pharmaceutical company Bial, a neurologist and a person living with Parkinson’s discuss how those with the condition can identify ‘off’ periods, what forms these states might take – and why raising awareness of this phenomenon is so important
Early into his journey with Parkinson’s, US-based Bill Bucklew wasn’t sure how to answer when his neurologist asked him if he experienced ‘off’ periods.
“I didn’t really understand the concept,” explains Bill, who was diagnosed with the condition in 2012. “For the first few years of taking my Parkinson’s medication, I didn’t really experience them – but after four or five years I started to see what an ‘off’ period was.”
‘Off’ periods occur when Parkinson’s medication is not as effective as it should be, and it can be become more difficult to manage both motor and non-motor symptoms.
Joining Bill on the latest episode of the Parkinson’s Life podcast, ‘What to expect with ‘off’ periods in Parkinson’s’, is Dr Valentina Leta, a neurologist based in Italy. She explains that these states “tend to occur in up to 50% of people with Parkinson’s in the first five years of their condition – so it’s important to identify them”.
Highlighting his personal experience, Bill shares that one of the most challenging aspects of ‘off’ periods is their unpredictability. “Every day is going to be different,” says Bill. “When I can’t do things, all I can do is manage expectations and laugh it off.”
With different types of ‘off’ periods impacting people differently, Valentina says it’s important for those with the condition to understand how these states affect them personally – and regularly discuss their symptoms with their healthcare providers.
This episode is the first in a two-part series all about ‘off’ periods, sponsored by pharmaceutical company Bial.
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.
