Share:

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, your healthcare team will establish a treatment plan that includes a variety of medications. These prescriptions will reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms such as tremors, shaking, slow movement, and balance issues. When the medication is working in your system – or “on” – you’ll experience little to no symptoms. When the medicine leaves your system and tremors and other physical manifestations return, you’ll enter what’s referred to as “off time.” Here are ways you can handle this phase of the condition. 

3 Ways to Manage “Off Times” as a Parkinson’s Patient

1. Talk to Your Doctor

Off times can be predictable as Parkinson’s progresses and you take the same medication for extended periods of time. Track your off times and communicate openly with your doctor about the length, severity, and frequency of these episodes. Your health care team may adjust your medication or put you on new dosages to better combat symptoms. 

2. Adjust Your Diet

parkinson'sWhat you’re eating and your scheduled meal times as they relate to when you’re taking medication can impact the effectiveness of your treatment plan and when you have off times. Work with a nutritionist as well as your doctor to come up with a diet plan and eating routine that will keep you healthy and ensure your medication lasts for longer periods of time without a negative impact on your blood pressure or energy levels. 

3. Educate Care Providers & Loved Ones

The effectiveness of medication varies from one individual to another based on unique prognosis, age, diet, exercise routine, how far the disease has progressed, and many other factors. As such, educate your loved ones and care providers on the symptoms you’re experiencing and when you’re most likely to go through off times. By having a supportive system of friends and family who understand what you’re dealing with and know the warning signs, you’ll find greater emotional and physical comfort. 

 

If you or a family member has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, turn to Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson's in Marlborough, CT. As a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) registered charity, this organization and its faithful volunteers believe in raising awareness and helping families impacted by this disease. They provide support and educational opportunities throughout the state. To learn more about their offerings and how you can get involved, call their office at (860) 266-6040. Visit their website to find support groups and explore clinical trials. 

tracking