You should talk to your doctor about your symptoms, showing them your motor diary, so that he/she can optimise your medication regime. Make sure that you also let your doctor know about non-motor symptoms as these are equally important and can affect quality of life.
Sometimes sitting back and relaxing can be helpful, as frustration or stress when trying to do things when “off” can aggravate symptoms. Conversely some people find keeping busy helps to distract from wearing off.
Coping strategies and tricks of movement
Many people develop their own strategies to cope with their specific difficulties. Certain ‘tricks’ work for some people more than others and it is always worth trying various strategies to find the best for you.
For an extensive video selection of a range of coping strategies see www.epda.eu.com/copingStrategies
Diet
Eating a healthy diet is important and particular attention should be paid to any instructions your doctor gives you regarding how you take levodopa in relation to food. Protein can interfere with its absorption in the body and brain and can reduce its effectiveness.
Exercise and rest
Exercise, such as swimming or walking, may help and of course and getting plenty of sleep is important. Many people find the loss of energy during their “off” time particularly difficult when carrying out daily activities, such as walking or working. You may find it helpful, therefore, to time activities around your “on” time so that you can more easily accomplish these.
