The “on-off” phenomenon is a characteristic of some, but by no means all people with long-standing Parkinson’s. It can best be described as an unpredictable shift from mobility - “on” - to a sudden inability to move - “off”. “Off” to “on” can occur very suddenly. “On-off” attacks are unpredictable fluctuations in response to medication which may last up to several hours. The cause is not understood and are a late side effect of levodopa treatment.
A Swedish delicacy is fresh potatoes. In the middle of harvesting potatoes my Parkinson’s turns from “ON” to “OFF”. At such a moment the only thing to do is to put the pitchfork down, rest a while and “refill” a dose of dopamine, so I get my strength back. Then I can harvest my fresh potatoes and just enjoy life.
Alexej, 63
Täby, Sweden
