Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the nervous system that mainly affects movement, but its early signs can be hard to notice and can vary greatly from one person to another.
Spotting these signs early on is key for getting an accurate diagnosis and starting treatment as soon as possible. Here’s an overview of some common early signs of Parkinson’s disease and how they can show up in different people.
Tremor
One of the first and most common signs of Parkinson’s is a slight tremor or shaking in a part of the body, often in the hands or fingers.
This shaking usually happens when the hand is at rest, and it may look like a gentle movement between the thumb and forefinger, known as a “pill-rolling” tremor.
According to a study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry, this type of rest tremor is often the main reason people seek medical help, as it is a clear early warning signal.
Slowness in Movement (Bradykinesia)
Another early sign is a slowing down of physical movements, called bradykinesia. This symptom may develop gradually and can begin with less facial expression, like reduced blinking or less movement in the face.
As it progresses, people might find it hard to do everyday tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or walking at their normal speed. Bradykinesia can affect almost any part of the body, making basic activities take longer and require more effort.
Muscle Stiffness
Stiff muscles in the limbs or torso are common in the early stages of Parkinson’s. This stiffness, or rigidity, can limit movement and even cause pain in the muscles.
Many people with Parkinson’s experience this stiffness, which can be felt when someone else tries to move their arm—it moves stiffly and doesn’t swing naturally.
Problems with Posture and Balance
People with Parkinson’s may also have issues with balance and posture, although these problems might be overlooked until they become more obvious.
Early on, the person may start to develop a slightly stooped posture or experience some balance problems, which increase the risk of falling as the disease progresses.
Loss of Automatic Movements
Parkinson’s can lead to a reduction in automatic movements, such as blinking, smiling, or naturally swinging the arms while walking. The lack of these unconscious movements can result in a more fixed facial expression and a noticeable absence of arm swing when walking.
Changes in Speech and Handwriting
Changes in speech and handwriting are also common early signs. People with Parkinson’s might speak more softly, quickly, slur their words, or hesitate before starting to talk.
The Parkinson’s Foundation notes that these changes can be among the first noticeable symptoms. Handwriting can also become smaller and more cramped, a condition known as micrographia.
Sleep Issues and Other Non-Motor Symptoms
Sleep problems can appear years before the more obvious motor symptoms show up. These issues might include restless legs syndrome or REM sleep behavior disorder, where a person acts out their dreams while sleeping.
Non-motor symptoms such as losing the sense of smell, constipation, or changes in mood—like depression or anxiety—can also be early indicators of Parkinson’s. These non-motor symptoms can occur long before the more visible signs develop.
Why Early Detection Matters
Recognizing these early signs is important because getting a timely diagnosis allows for better management of the disease. A neurologist can help confirm if the symptoms are due to Parkinson’s and start a treatment plan.
Early treatment doesn’t just help with managing symptoms; it can also potentially slow down the progression of the disease.
If you or someone you know has been experiencing these signs, it’s essential to speak to a healthcare professional for a proper check-up. Noticing the signs early and taking action can make a big difference in maintaining a better quality of life and effectively managing Parkinson’s disease over time.
If you care about Parkinson’s disease, please read studies about Vitamin E that may help prevent Parkinson’s disease, and Vitamin D could benefit people with Parkinson’s disease.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies about new way to treat Parkinson’s disease, and results showing COVID-19 may be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
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