10 Early Signs of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. It primarily affects those over age 60, and according to the National Institute of Health, the symptoms progress more quickly in some patients than in other. For many, it can take years before Parkinson’s disease might make it difficult to walk, talk, or live independently. In fact, symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in the early stages are often confused with normal signs of aging.

In this blog, we’ve put together a list of 10 most common early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease so that it is possible to take preventive measures on time:

1. Tremor

Tremors involve a persistent twitching or shaking of the hands, legs, or chin. Tremor while at rest is a common early sign of Parkinson's disease. Tremors associated with Parkinson's disease are called "rest tremors", which occurs when the muscle is relaxed, such as when the hands are resting on the lap.

2. Small Handwriting

A change in handwriting may be a sign of Parkinson's disease – this condition is called micrographia (the medical term for small handwriting). Individual letters tend to be smaller than normal, and words are spaced closely.

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3. Loss of Smell

If you have Parkinson’s disease, you will no longer smell certain foods very well. Loss of smell is one of the most noticeable symptoms of Parkinson's disease that is not related to movement.

4. Sleep problems

Insomnia, uncontrollable, or sudden movements during sleep may be an early sign of Parkinson's disease. Kicking, thrashing, flailing your arms, and even falling out of bed can be indications of a serious problem.

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5. Trouble Moving or Walking

Parkinson’s disease sufferers may notice stiffness in their body, arms or legs. They may notice the difference in the movement of arms. Arms may not swing as it used to while walking and the patient may walk slowly or drag their feet as they walk.

6. Constipation

Straining to move your bowels can be an early sign of Parkinson's disease. Constipation is present in more than 60% of Parkinson's patients and may occur even before motor symptoms like tremor and stiffness start.

7. A Soft or Low Voice

Changes in the volume and quality of a person’s voice are other early signs of Parkinson's disease. The voice may get softer, breathy, or coarse, causing others difficulty hearing what is said.

8. Masked Face

Facial expressions involve many subtle, complex muscle movements. People with Parkinson's disease often have a reduced ability to make facial expressions. This is called facial masking. People who have facial masking may appear blank or emotionless, though their ability to feel emotions is not impaired. You may notice the serious, depressed or mad look on the sufferers’ face, even when they are not in a bad mood.

9. Dizziness or Fainting

Parkinson’s disease patients often feel dizzy especially when they stand up out of a chair. This feeling of dizziness or fainting can be a sign of low blood pressure (Orthostatic hypotension (OH)) and can be linked to Parkinson's disease.

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10. Stooping or Hunching Over

People who have Parkinson's disease may notice changes in their posture. It’s difficult for them to stand upright like they used to and may start bending forward; making them appears hunched or stooped over.

If you have any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your doctor. The doctor can rule out Parkinson’s disease or other serious causes, or she/he can ensure that you begin treatment as soon as possible.

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