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PhotoPharmics

PhotoPharmics is a clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for n

11/28/2025

As the holiday season begins, we pause to reflect on the incredible strength and resilience that define this community.

For every person living with Parkinson’s, and for every family caregiver, the journey brings unique challenges—but it also reveals a profound capacity for gratitude.

This Thanksgiving, we are especially thankful for:

🔹The Unwavering Support of family and friends who show up, day after day, as listeners, advocates, and heroes.

🔹The Commitment to Research that brings us closer to breakthroughs and better therapies every single year.

🔹Your Own Resilience: The courage it takes to manage fluctuations, stay active, and find joy in the present moment is truly inspiring.

🔹The Power of Connection within this community, where shared experience turns challenges into collective strength.

We know that managing symptoms during a busy holiday can be difficult. Take time for yourselves, rest when you need to, and remember to celebrate the small, meaningful victories.

Wishing you all a peaceful, hopeful, and happy Thanksgiving!

11/27/2025

If you live with Parkinson’s, you’ve likely experienced those frustrating moments of mental fog—losing your train of thought, forgetting a task midway, or feeling like your mind is moving in slow motion.

You’re not alone, and you’re not powerless against it.

One powerful way to manage brain fog is to simplify your day with structure.

A daily to-do list designed around how your brain works—rather than how it used to—can make a world of difference.

Here’s a simple “Brain Fog Buster” template you can print or write out daily:

The Brain Fog Buster To-Do List:
1️⃣ Top 3 Must-Dos: (The essentials that must get done today.)

2️⃣ Nice-to-Do (if energy allows): (Low-stress tasks that can move to tomorrow if needed.)

3️⃣ Rest & Recharge: (One small activity that gives your mind or body a break—like listening to music or stepping outside.)

4️⃣ Reminder Notes: (Medication times, appointments, or things to tell your care partner.)

5️⃣ Gratitude Moment: (One thing that went right today—no matter how small.)

This isn’t about doing more—it’s about feeling more in control.

By externalizing your thoughts and prioritizing your tasks, you free up mental energy and reduce anxiety around “keeping up.”

💬 How do you organize your day when brain fog hits?

What small tools or habits help you stay on track?

Let us know in the comments.

11/26/2025

"Why do I look bored when I’m actually deeply engaged? Why do people think I’m angry when I’m perfectly fine?"

This is the reality of the Parkinson's "Mask," or hypomimia.

This symptom—the reduction or loss of automatic facial expression—is often cited as one of the most isolating aspects of PD.

It's caused by muscle rigidity, not genuine emotion, but the social cost is immense.

The face, which is vital for non-verbal connection, becomes less responsive.

This leads to painful misinterpretations: a person with PD who is attentive and interested can be perceived as cold, uninterested, or depressed.

This profound social disconnect takes a heavy emotional toll, making it harder to communicate warmth or humor.

Warming Up the "Mask" (Movement is Medicine)

The great news is that, like any other muscle affected by PD, the facial muscles benefit from proactive movement and practice.

It takes conscious effort, but it can make a difference in regaining expressiveness:

🔹 The Exaggerated Smile: Practice holding a wide, sustained smile (show your teeth!) for 10-15 seconds. Repeat several times a day.

🔹 Facial Gymnastics: Work through the full range of motion: raise your eyebrows high, then squint them tight. Wrinkle your nose, then puff your cheeks.

🔹 Vocal Practice: Use exaggerated mouth movements while talking or reading aloud. This engages the facial muscles more robustly than silent conversation.

🔹 Mirror Work: Practice expressing specific emotions (surprise, concern, laughter) in the mirror to make the movements more intentional.

It takes effort to overcome hypomimia, but it is a crucial part of maintaining social connections and quality of life.

Be patient with your face, be patient with yourself, and remember that you deserve to be seen and understood.

11/25/2025

“I Don’t Look Sick”: Living with Parkinson’s Invisible Symptoms

When people think of Parkinson’s, they often picture tremors or movement issues.

But those living with it know that some of the hardest battles are the ones no one can see — fatigue, apathy, anxiety, and pain.

These invisible symptoms can be isolating. You might hear, “But you look fine!” or feel pressure to hide how hard each day really is.

The truth is, not looking sick doesn’t mean not feeling sick.

Fatigue in Parkinson’s isn’t just being tired — it’s a deep exhaustion that rest doesn’t always fix.

Apathy can feel like emotional flatness, not disinterest.

😣 Pain might show up in muscles, joints, or even as internal discomfort.

So how do you cope — and help others understand?

— Name what’s invisible. Sometimes, simply saying “I’m struggling with fatigue today” makes the unseen real for others.

— Educate gently. You don’t owe everyone an explanation, but sharing one fact — like “fatigue is a common

Parkinson’s symptoms” can shift how people see your experience.

— Pace yourself. Protect your energy and allow rest without guilt.

— Find your people. Support groups (online or local) are powerful reminders that you’re not alone.

Your symptoms may be invisible, but your experience is valid.

Living with Parkinson’s means carrying strength that often goes unseen, and that’s something worth acknowledging every single day.

💬 How do you explain your invisible symptoms to others? What’s helped you feel seen?

11/24/2025

Feeling like Parkinson’s fatigue is stealing your energy — even on the “good” days?

You’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common yet overlooked symptoms of Parkinson’s, affecting both body and mind. The good news?

With the right strategies, you can take small steps to regain control of your energy and day.

Here are 9 simple ways to manage fatigue:

1. Prioritize rest, not just sleep: Schedule short rest breaks throughout the day — before you hit the wall, not after.

2. Stay active (gently): Light exercise like walking, stretching, or tai chi boosts circulation and mood without overexertion.

3. Eat for energy: Choose balanced meals with fiber, protein, and healthy carbs. Avoid heavy meals that make you sluggish.

4. Hydrate consistently: Dehydration worsens fatigue — sip water regularly rather than all at once.

5. Manage your medications: Some medications may contribute to tiredness. Talk to your doctor about timing or alternatives.

6. Plan your day wisely: Do demanding tasks during your energy peaks, and rest when your body says so.

7. Light exposure: Getting natural morning light or using therapeutic light (under guidance) can help regulate energy levels and mood.

8. Simplify tasks: Use tools, sit while cooking, and ask for help — conserving energy is not giving up.

9. Nurture your mind: Gentle mindfulness, music, or gratitude journaling can ease mental fatigue and improve focus.

Fatigue may not disappear overnight, but these steps can make your days lighter and more manageable.

What’s one small change that’s helped you cope with Parkinson’s fatigue?

11/20/2025

It happens every single time: you wait months for that crucial appointment with your neurologist or movement disorder specialist.

You prepare mentally for weeks.

But the moment you sit down, the 15-minute clock starts ticking, and suddenly, all those vital, nuanced questions you had about your symptoms, medication side effects, or sleep issues vanish completely!

You leave feeling rushed and frustrated that you didn’t cover the most important ground.

Don't let that valuable time—which you deserve—be wasted.

Being prepared is the single most powerful way to ensure that both you and your doctor get the absolute maximum out of your visit.

Your appointment is not just a quick check-up; it is your dedicated time to advocate for your health, clarify your unique situation, and collaboratively optimize your care plan.

The data you bring is your voice.

We created this simple, printable checklist specifically to ensure you never forget the critical points that are too easy to overlook during the stress of a clinical consultation.

It serves as an objective record of your life between visits. Print it out, fill it in over the course of the month as issues arise, and take it with you!

Remember to note details about your medication timing and when you feel "off" or "on."

Track all non-motor symptoms—sleep, mood, and fatigue are just as critical as tremor or rigidity.

Finally, use the checklist to prompt you to ask about new clinical trials or alternative therapies you may qualify for.

By providing a clear, structured document, you transform the conversation from a vague complaint into a powerful, data-driven discussion that leads to tangible changes in your treatment plan and ultimately, your quality of life.

Be your own advocate this holiday season and beyond!

If this helped you feel seen today, you’ll find more support and insights on Photopharmics' socials.

Come join us.

11/19/2025

If you're living with Parkinson's (PD), you know this exhaustion isn't normal. It's an overwhelming, unrelenting absence of energy that sleep doesn't touch.

This profound exhaustion is one of the most common non-motor symptoms of PD, affecting over half of all individuals—and for many, it's the single most disabling factor.

It's NOT laziness; it's physiological.

Fatigue in PD is often a primary symptom, stemming directly from neurochemical changes in the brain (like serotonin disruption), compounded by secondary issues:

🔹Sleep Disorders: Over 75% of those with PD struggle with conditions like insomnia, leading to fragmented rest.

🔹Medication Effects: Some necessary PD drugs can contribute to daytime sleepiness.

➡️ Breaking the Cycle

The key to fighting back is a multi-faceted approach:

🔹Move to Improve: It seems counterintuitive, but exercise is the most effective strategy. It builds stamina and fights the cycle of deconditioning.

🔹Practice the 4 P's: Prioritize, Plan, and Pace your most demanding tasks for your "on" times.

🔹Fuel for Function: Maintain strict hydration and nutrition to avoid energy crashes.

This profound exhaustion is real, complex, and manageable. The first step is understanding your opponent.

To dive deeper into identifying your fatigue type and gaining more management strategies, visit the full blog post: https://photopharmics.com/why-am-i-so-exhausted-is-fatigue-related-to-parkinsons/

11/18/2025

Trial Hits 350! A Milestone for Parkinson’s Progress

We’ve officially surpassed our enrollment goal — 350 participants have joined the Light for PD Phase 3 clinical trial!

This milestone marks an exciting step forward in bringing Celeste®, a non-drug, home-based light therapy for Parkinson’s disease, closer to reality.

This first-of-its-kind, fully remote trial proves that scientific rigor and patient convenience can go hand in hand.

Each participant is helping shape a future where Parkinson’s care is accessible, home-centered, and deeply human.

Thank you to every participant, caregiver, and research partner who made this possible.

Together, we’re turning light into hope.

11/17/2025

7 Tips to Live Better with Apathy in Parkinson’s 💭

Apathy — the loss of motivation or interest — is one of the lesser-discussed symptoms of Parkinson’s, yet it affects nearly 40% of people living with the condition.

It can make daily tasks feel harder, hobbies less enjoyable, and even self-care seem like a burden.

But with awareness and small changes, it’s possible to manage apathy and improve your quality of life.

Here are 7 practical tips to help:

➡️ 1. Set small, realistic goals
Big goals can feel overwhelming. Start with one or two achievable tasks each day, like a short walk or a phone call to a friend. Every small win matters.

➡️ 2. Create a daily routine
A structured day helps overcome the lack of drive. Schedule meals, exercise, rest, and social time at fixed hours to build rhythm and reduce decision fatigue.

➡️ 3. Stay physically active
Movement can lift both mood and motivation. Gentle exercise like stretching, yoga, or dancing boosts dopamine and helps counter emotional flatness.

➡️ 4. Connect with others
Social engagement is one of the strongest antidotes to apathy. Join a support group, talk to loved ones, or volunteer. Connection often rekindles motivation.

➡️ 5. Stimulate your mind
Try reading, puzzles, or listening to music. Mental stimulation helps activate reward pathways and keeps your brain engaged.

➡️ 6. Ask for help when needed
If apathy feels overwhelming, talk to your doctor. Adjusting medication or adding behavioral therapy may help restore balance.

➡️ 7. Be kind to yourself
Apathy is not laziness; it’s part of the condition. Celebrate small steps and avoid self-criticism.

Remember: motivation may fade, but meaning doesn’t have to. With structure, support, and self-compassion, it’s possible to rediscover joy in the everyday.

11/14/2025

How to Be Prepared for Your Parkinson’s Appointment 🩺

Doctor visits can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to remember all your symptoms, medications, and questions at once.

But being well-prepared for your Parkinson’s appointment can make a huge difference in how effectively your doctor understands and manages your symptoms.

Here’s how to make the most of your next visit 👇

➡️ 1. Track your symptoms regularly
Keep a daily log of both motor and non-motor symptoms, like tremor, stiffness, fatigue, mood, sleep, constipation, or brain fog. Note what time symptoms appear or worsen, and how they respond to medication. This helps your doctor adjust treatment more precisely.

➡️ 2. List your medications
Bring an up-to-date list of all your medications, including dosages, timing, and any side effects you’ve noticed. If your “on” and “off” times fluctuate, make a note of when they occur.

➡️ 3. Write down your questions
It’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask once you’re in the doctor’s office. Write down your questions beforehand, such as about new symptoms, side effects, exercise routines, or upcoming trials or therapies.

➡️ 4. Bring support
If possible, take a caregiver, partner, or friend along. They can help provide observations you might miss and remember details discussed during the visit.

➡️ 5. Discuss your daily challenges
Parkinson’s isn’t only about what happens during an exam; it’s about how you feel day to day. Be honest about emotional changes, fatigue, or sleep problems. These are just as important as motor symptoms.

Remember: You are your own best advocate. Preparing for your appointment ensures your care is personalized and proactive — not reactive.

Parkinson’s management is a team effort, and you play the most important role on that team.

11/13/2025

At What Stage of Parkinson’s Are You?

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, one of the first questions that often comes to mind is, “What stage am I in?”

But here’s the truth: Parkinson’s doesn’t move in neat, predictable stages for everyone.

It’s a highly individual journey.

While doctors use staging systems to describe symptom progression, these stages are only guidelines, not strict timelines.

➡️ The Hoehn and Yahr scale is one of the most common ways to describe Parkinson’s progression.

It ranges from:

Stage 1: Mild symptoms on one side of the body only (unilateral). Daily activities are mostly unaffected.

Stage 2: Symptoms on both sides (bilateral). You might notice stiffness or tremor on both sides but still maintain balance.

Stage 3: Balance starts to become an issue, but you remain independent in most activities.

Stage 4: Symptoms become more pronounced, and daily tasks may need some assistance.

Stage 5: The most advanced stage, where mobility is severely limited, and full-time care may be required.

However (and this is key), not everyone progresses through these stages in the same way or at the same pace.

Some people remain in early stages for many years with proper medication, exercise, and care.

Others may find that their non-motor symptoms (like fatigue, anxiety, or sleep problems) affect them more than visible motor ones.

What really matters isn’t just which stage you’re in, but how well your symptoms are managed and what improves your quality of life.

💡 Regular check-ins with your neurologist, honest symptom tracking, and an active lifestyle can make a world of difference in slowing progression and staying independent longer.

Because Parkinson’s isn’t a single straight path, it’s a journey unique to you.

11/12/2025

Did you know that for many people living with Parkinson’s, sleep can be just as challenging as movement?

One of the most common and least talked about non-motor symptoms is REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD).

It’s a condition where your body starts acting out your dreams during REM sleep because the usual muscle paralysis doesn’t kick in.

Studies show that about 30–50% of people with Parkinson’s experience RBD.

Why it matters:

RBD can show up years before the typical motor symptoms like tremor or stiffness.
It can also cause injuries during sleep — people may kick, punch, or even fall out of bed without realizing it.

And it’s not just a sleep issue.

It’s linked to faster Parkinson’s progression and more balance or memory problems.

What to watch for:
Talking, shouting, or moving a lot during dreams
Waking up feeling like you were fighting in your sleep or finding yourself on the floor
Feeling tired or sleepy during the day with no clear reason

What you can do:
Talk to your doctor or a sleep specialist. RBD can be diagnosed and managed.
Make your sleep area safe — remove sharp objects, add padding, or use bed rails.
Ask your doctor about treatments like melatonin or low-dose clonazepam.
Track your symptoms and share them with your care team.

Sleep shouldn’t be something you worry about.

If vivid dreams or sudden movements in your sleep sound familiar, it might be time to bring RBD into the conversation.

Address

3451 North Triumph Boulevard, Suite 201
Lehi, UT
84043

Telephone

+18017706960

Website

https://photopharmics.com/

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PhotoPharmics: On the cutting edge of Parkinson’s disease treatment

PhotoPharmics is a clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for treating neurodegenerative disorders through the eyes. We have 30+ years of research and experience in specialized phototherapy, and are now passionately pursuing the next breakthrough in the treatment of the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Speaking of breakthrough, we are beyond thrilled that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently bestowed Breakthrough Device Designation upon our phototherapy device.

“Very few device companies receive Breakthrough designation. Our device is the first specialized phototherapy device to achieve this status,” said Kent Savage, CEO of PhotoPharmics. “Our focus is to help people with Parkinson’s improve function and return to what they enjoy doing most. We think this recognition by FDA validates our work.”

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, over one million Americans and ten million people worldwide suffer with Parkinson’s disease, a number which is expected to double within the next 20 years. Nearly 60,000 Americans are newly diagnosed each year, and countless others are suffering without a formal diagnosis.