Most people know that Parkinson’s is a disease that affects movement, but few are aware of the full range of symptoms that can occur. In this article, we will explore ten early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. While not all of these symptoms will be experienced by every person with Parkinson’s, they are good indicators that you should see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them.
Doctors like Joon Faii Ong London say that the disease “starts with a tremor,” which is often one of the first symptoms to appear. In fact, tremor is so common that it is sometimes used as a diagnostic tool for Parkinson’s. Here are some other symptoms you should look out for:
- Tremor
One of the most well-known symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is tremor or involuntary shaking. This usually begins in one hand and can spread to the other hand, arm, leg, or even the jaw and face. The tremor is often most noticeable when the affected body part is at rest.
- Bradykinesia
Bradykinesia refers to slowness of movement. This can make simple tasks like getting out of a chair or putting on clothing difficult and time-consuming. People with bradykinesia may also have difficulty speaking, as their words may come out slow and slurred.
- Rigidity
Rigidity is another common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This is the feeling of tightness or stiffness in the muscles, which can make it difficult to move around freely.
- Postural instability
People with Parkinson’s disease may experience problems with balance and coordination, which can make it difficult to maintain a steady posture. This can lead to falls and other accidents.
- Impaired movement
People with Parkinson’s disease may find it difficult or impossible to move certain parts of their body. This can include the arms, legs, and face.
- Loss of automatic movements
Automatic movements are the unconscious movements that we all make, such as blinking or swallowing. People with Parkinson’s disease may find that they are no longer able to make these movements, which can be very distressing.
- Speech changes
Changes in speech are common in Parkinson’s disease. The voice may become softer or more monotonous, and the person may speak more slowly. They may also have difficulty forming words correctly, which can make communication difficult.
- Swallowing difficulties
Difficulty swallowing is another common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This can lead to choking or aspiration (inhaling food or liquids into the lungs).
- Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of many illnesses, but it can be especially debilitating in Parkinson’s disease. The fatigue may be caused by the disease itself or by the medications used to treat it.
- Depression
Depression is a common complication of Parkinson’s disease. The combination of physical and mental symptoms can be very difficult to cope with. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment is key in managing Parkinson’s disease.
If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms above, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection can help manage Parkinson’s disease better.
