5 Early Parkinson’s symptoms to watch out for
By Nmami Agarwal 25-Jul 2023 Reading Time: 11 Mins
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects millions of people worldwide and it is commonly known for its motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and difficulty with movement. However, Parkinson’s disease can also cause a range of non-motor symptoms that can be just as debilitating, yet often go unnoticed; many people with Parkinson’s disease experience these silent symptoms for years before being diagnosed. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can ultimately impact the effectiveness of treatments and the quality of life. We will explore five silent symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that you shouldn’t ignore in order to better understand the disease and seek treatment at the earliest signs.
Introduction: What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s movement and it develops gradually and is caused by the degeneration of certain nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement. As the disease progresses, dopamine production decreases, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination and these physical traits are well-known, but there are also several silent symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that can go unnoticed or be mistaken for other conditions. These symptoms can include changes in mood, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal problems. It’s also important to be aware of these silent symptoms so that individuals can seek medical attention and receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease: The Tremor you Can’t Control
One of the most common early signs of Parkinson’s disease is the tremor or shaking that occurs in one hand or both hands, usually when they are at rest. This tremor can be subtle at first, and may only affect one finger or hand but over the passage of time the tremor may become more noticeable and affect other parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, or chin. It’s important to note that not everyone with Parkinson’s disease will experience tremors, and not all tremors are caused by Parkinson’s disease. However, if you notice a tremor that you can’t control, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms such as stiffness or difficulty with movement, it’s important to speak with your doctor. Other early signs of Parkinson’s disease may include slow movement, stiffness or rigidity of the muscles, and difficulty with balance or coordination and these symptoms may be mild at first, and may be mistaken for normal signs of aging or a less serious condition.
Silent Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: The Shuffling Walk
One of the most common and silent symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease is the shuffling walk which occurs when the person’s steps become shorter and quicker, and they start dragging their feet while walking. It is caused by the lack of dopamine in the brain, which is responsible for controlling movement as the disease progresses, the shuffling walk can lead to problems with balance and stability, making it difficult for the person to stand or walk without assistance. In some cases, the person may also experience freezing, where they suddenly stop walking and have difficulty starting up again and the shuffling walk is often overlooked as a symptom of Parkinson’s Disease, as it can be mistaken for old age or arthritis. Early detection and treatment of Parkinson’s Disease can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Speech and Swallowing Difficulties: The Softening Voice and Choking
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the neurons that produce dopamine in the brain and it is known to cause motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, but it can also cause non-motor symptoms that can be easily ignored or attributed to other causes. One such symptom is speech and swallowing difficulties as the disease progresses, the muscles involved in speech and swallowing can become weaker, leading to a softening of the voice and difficulty in articulating words. This can make it difficult for others to understand the person and can often lead to frustration for both the person with Parkinson’s and their loved ones. In addition to speech difficulties, Parkinson’s can also cause swallowing difficulties, which can lead to choking and an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. This can be a serious issue, as it can lead to hospitalization and even death. Most importantly it is to note that speech and swallowing difficulties can occur at any stage of Parkinson’s disease, although they are more common in the later stages.
Constipation: The Unexplained Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Constipation is a common problem experienced by many people, but it can also be a silent symptom of Parkinson’s disease. In fact, constipation can occur years before other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear, making it an early warning sign that should not be ignored and the reason for constipation in Parkinson’s disease is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the degeneration of the brain cells that control movement. These cells also play a role in regulating the digestive system, and when they are damaged, it can lead to slow movement in the gut and constipation. They can help determine if it is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease or another condition. In addition to constipation, other unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing should also be reported to your doctor. Early detection and treatment of Parkinson’s disease can improve the quality of life and slow down the progression of the disease.
Sleep Disturbances: The Restless Nights and Vivid Dreams
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system. Although tremors and stiffness are the most commonly recognized symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, not all symptoms are as obvious. One of the silent symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that often goes undetected is sleep disturbances. Generally people with Parkinson’s disease often experience restless nights and vivid dreams. They may also suffer from sleep apnea, which is a condition where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. Sleep apnea can cause people to wake up feeling tired and restless. Also disturbances during sleep can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, as they can lead to fatigue, irritability and difficulty concentrating during the day. It’s important to recognize the connection between Parkinson’s disease and sleep disturbances so that individuals living with Parkinson’s can receive proper treatment. Treatment options may include medication and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, establishing a regular sleep routine, and avoiding daytime naps. If you or someone you know is experiencing sleep disturbances along with other symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, or slowed movement, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Don’t Ignore the Silent Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
To put it in a nutshell, it’s crucial not to ignore the silent symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and early detection and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with the disease. Remember, Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that can lead to severe complications if left untreated. However, with proper care and management, people with Parkinson’s can still lead fulfilling lives and don’t let fear or uncertainty prevent you from seeking help.