Parkinson’s disease can start with very subtle changes, but catching the early signs might make a difference in treatment. This nervous system disorder affects about 1% of people over 65, and while it progresses slowly, symptoms can be overlooked at first. By knowing what to look out for, you may spot the signs early.
Tremors
One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of Parkinson’s is tremors. Tremors are a twitching or shaking that typically affects the hands, legs, or chin. These movements are called “rest tremors” because they stop when the affected body part is in use. At first, only the person experiencing them might notice, but as the disease progresses, they become more obvious.
Changes in Walking
A shuffle in the way someone walks could be a red flag. Parkinson’s disease often affects movement, causing a person to walk more slowly, drag their feet, or walk with an irregular rhythm. This change is sometimes referred to as a “shuffling gait” and might be the first clue something is off.
Loss of Smell
A decrease in the sense of smell, called hyposmia, is another early symptom that could be easy to miss. Many people don’t realize it’s connected to Parkinson’s, but it’s actually quite common, affecting up to 90% of people with the disease. Often, it occurs years before any noticeable motor symptoms appear.
Difficulty Sleeping
Parkinson’s can take a toll on a person’s sleep quality. From trouble falling asleep to sudden movements during the night, the disorder brings a host of sleep-related problems. Nightmares, sleep apnea, or even narcolepsy may be part of the picture, leaving the person feeling fatigued during the day.
Cramped Handwriting
If someone’s handwriting suddenly gets small or cramped, it might be an early sign of Parkinson’s. Known as micrographia, this change occurs due to the motor difficulties caused by the disease. It’s a subtle symptom but could be one of the first changes noticed by those close to the person.
Vocal Changes
A person with Parkinson’s may experience changes in their voice. Speaking in a softer tone or losing the usual variation in volume and pitch are signs that the disease is affecting the muscles used for speech. Over time, the voice might become monotone, making conversations more difficult.
Poor Balance
Struggling to maintain balance can be another early indicator of Parkinson’s. This happens because the disease affects nerves deep in the brain that help control balance. Simple tests, like gently pulling on someone’s shoulders to see how they regain balance, can highlight potential issues.
Facial Masking
People with Parkinson’s often lose some of the ability to express emotions through their facial expressions. Called facial masking, this symptom can make someone appear emotionless even though their feelings haven’t changed. This happens because the disease slows down the muscles responsible for making those expressions.
Bradykinesia
Bradykinesia refers to the slowness of movement often seen in Parkinson’s. This can manifest as stiffness in the limbs or difficulty starting and continuing movements. While it might be confused with muscle weakness, bradykinesia is a distinct symptom related to how the nervous system controls movement.
Constipation
For some, digestive issues like constipation may be an early sign of Parkinson’s. Around 25% of people with the condition experience constipation before other symptoms appear. This is because the disease affects nerves that help control the digestive system.
Posture Changes
A noticeable shift in posture can occur as Parkinson’s progresses. Someone who was once able to stand tall may start to hunch or stoop forward. This is often due to muscle rigidity, which makes it harder for the person to maintain proper posture.
Weight Loss
Mild to moderate weight loss is another sign that could indicate Parkinson’s. Tremors, muscle rigidity, and other motor symptoms increase energy needs, while a loss of smell or digestive issues may decrease a person’s appetite, leading to weight loss over time.
Psychological Symptoms
Parkinson’s affects more than just physical movement; it can also cause emotional changes. Anxiety, depression, and even dementia are possible as the disease progresses. Therapy and counseling may help someone manage these psychological challenges, improving their overall well-being.
By recognizing these early signs of Parkinson’s, a person can seek medical advice and potentially improve their long-term outlook. Early detection and treatment are key to managing the symptoms and maintaining a good quality of life.
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