Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: What Are the Early Symptoms?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It develops gradually, and in the early stages, the symptoms may be barely noticeable. Early detection is key to managing Parkinson’s disease effectively and maintaining a high quality of life.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate our movement and when levels drop, it leads to the motor and non-motor symptoms of the disease. As well as affecting our movement, Parkinson’s can also impact cognitive function, mood, and other bodily functions.

The early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

The early signs of Parkinson’s disease can vary from person to person, and they usually develop gradually. Some of the early symptoms to watch for include:

Tremors

A tremor or slight shaking, often starting in the fingers, hands, or chin, may be one of the first noticeable symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The tremors usually occur at rest and improve with movement.

Slowed movement

People with Parkinson’s disease often experience a reduction in movement speed (this is called bradykinesia). This can make simple everyday activities, like walking or getting dressed, more difficult.

Muscle stiffness

Parkinson’s can cause a stiffness in the limbs or neck. This limits range of motion and causes discomfort. In many people, this symptom is mistaken for normal aging.

Changes in balance and posture

A difficulty maintaining balance or a stooped posture are signs of Parkinson’s disease that may develop early on. This can increase the risk of falls and injuries.

Small Handwriting

Called ‘micrographia’, this change in handwriting, where letters become smaller, can be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease.

Loss of facial expressions

Experiencing a loss or reduction in facial expressions can be an early sign, due to decreased muscle movement.

Changes in speech

Speech may become softer, slurred or more monotone. This makes communication more challenging for people with Parkinson’s disease.

Sleep disturbances

Experiencing restless sleep or nightmares can be early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease.

Reduced sense of smell

Known as hyposmia, a reduced sense of smell can appear a long time before any motor symptoms begin.

Constipation and digestive issues

Persistent constipation and slowed digestion are common early, non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

When should I see a doctor?

If you or a loved one experience one or more of the early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, it is important to see a neurologist. They will review all your symptoms and medial history and will perform physical and neurological examinations. If needed, imaging tests such as MRI or dopamine transporter (DaT) scans may be performed to help rule out other conditions.

An early diagnosis allows for better symptom management and improved quality of life. While there is no is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, many treatment options are available can help manage symptoms effectively.

Medication for Parkinson’s disease can effectively improve movement symptoms, particularly when supported by an holistic approach to care, which includes rehabilitation with physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy.

For people with advanced Parkinson’s, cutting-edge treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and continuous subcutaneous infusion therapy, can offer additional symptom relief.