The conversation about my Parkinson’s symptoms that made a difference

In my previous blog, I shared my experience of wearing the measurement device and recording my symptoms. At that point, I was still waiting to discuss the results with the neurologist. Looking back, that conversation became the most valuable part of the whole process.

Learning to trust what I feel

Before my appointment, I was curious to see whether the measurement would reveal something I hadn't noticed myself.

In the end, there were no big surprises. The results were largely in line with how I had been feeling. I happened to have a relatively good period during the measurement, so the symptom report reflected that.

Rather than discovering something completely new, the results gave me confidence to trust my own feelings. That reassurance mattered to me.

A conversation that brought new understanding

For the neurologist, the symptom report provided valuable insight into my condition and supported decisions about my treatment. For me, the greatest value was the conversation it enabled.

Instead of relying solely on my memory, the report provided something concrete to discuss. It helped us talk about my symptoms in much more detail. I could explain what I was experiencing, ask questions, and challenge some of my own assumptions, while the neurologist explained what the results meant.

The conversation also helped me distinguish between symptoms that had always felt similar to me. Learning to recognize those differences is important because they can require different treatment. Overall, I came away with a much better understanding of my Parkinson's.

As an engineer, I appreciate having data alongside my own experiences. It doesn't replace how I feel, but it gives both the neurologist and me a more reliable basis for making decisions together.

Turning understanding into action

One outcome of the appointment was an adjustment to my treatment. Two new medications were added, and the timing of my existing medication was fine-tuned.

Since then, I have noticed that the ups and downs throughout the day have become less pronounced. The changes are not dramatic, but I feel more stable, and I haven't experienced any significant side effects from the new medication.

Perhaps even more importantly, I learned how much the timing of my medication matters. Being more precise about when I take it helps me get better results and makes it easier to stay active. Because I understood why I had to be more precise with my medication, it made it easier to accept it and follow the medication plan more accurately.

What I learned

Living with Parkinson's is a continuous learning process. This experience reminded me that understanding your symptoms is about more than collecting information. It's about using that information to have better conversations, ask better questions, and make better decisions together with your neurologist.

I can also see value in repeating the measurement regularly to follow how my Parkinson's changes over time, or sooner if I notice that my condition is changing.

Most of all, this experience gave me more confidence to trust what I feel, helped me better understand my symptoms, and left me feeling better equipped to manage my Parkinson's, one step at a time.

Until next time,
Riaz

Riaz Zabihian

Riaz is Adamant Health's patient voice. He has been living with Parkinson’s disease for over a decade. In his blog, Riaz will share his personal experience of life with Parkinson's disease to provide support, inspiration, and practical advice for others affected by the condition.