10 Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder of the nervous system which affects more than 6 million people worldwide. The disease is caused by the death of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps in the transmission of signals between different parts of the brain that controls movement. Parkinson’s disease gradually affects the patient’s ability to move and control their body. Here are ten early symptoms of the disease that you should not ignore.
1. Tremors:
One of the most common early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is tremors. The tremors usually start in the hands or fingers and spread to other parts of the body, including the arms, legs, and face. The tremors usually happen when the person is at rest and decrease during movement. Over time, the tremors become more frequent and severe, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
2. Rigidity:
Parkinson’s disease causes stiffness and rigidity of the muscles, making it difficult to move. The muscles become rigid and resistant to movement, leading to a decrease in mobility. The stiffness can be experienced in the arms, legs, or neck, and can be painful and uncomfortable.
3. Slowness of movement:
Parkinson’s disease affects the speed and ability to perform movements. The slowness of movement, also known as bradykinesia, is a common early symptom of the disease. The person may take longer to perform simple tasks such as getting up from a chair or walking. The slowness of movement can affect the person’s ability to perform daily activities and significantly reduce their independence.
4. Impaired balance:
Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s ability to balance and stabilize their body. The person may feel unsteady while walking or standing, leading to frequent falls and injuries. The loss of balance is due to the stiffness and rigidity of the muscles and can worsen over time.
5. Changes in speech:
Parkinson’s disease affects the muscles involved in speech, leading to changes in speech patterns. The person may speak softly or have a monotone voice, making it difficult for others to understand them. The changes in speech can cause the person to feel self-conscious, leading to social isolation.
6. Difficulty in writing:
Parkinson’s disease affects the fine motor skills required for writing. The person may experience difficulty in holding a pen or pencil and writing legibly. The handwriting may become smaller and illegible over time, making it difficult to read.
7. Loss of sense of smell:
One of the early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is a loss of sense of smell. The person may find it difficult to distinguish between different smells or may not be able to smell at all. The loss of sense of smell can affect the person’s appetite and affect the enjoyment of food.
8. Trouble sleeping:
Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s ability to sleep. The person may experience insomnia, vivid dreams, or nightmares. The sleep disturbances can lead to fatigue and affect the person’s ability to perform daily activities.
9. Changes in mood:
Parkinson’s disease can affect a person’s mood, leading to depression, anxiety, or irritability. The changes in mood can affect the person’s relationships and overall quality of life.
10. Constipation:
Parkinson’s disease can affect the digestive system, leading to constipation. The person may experience bloating, abdominal pain, or difficulty in passing stools. The constipation can worsen as the disease progresses, leading to other digestive complications.
Conclusion:
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder that affects a person’s ability to move and control their body. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life of patients with the disease. If you or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s essential to consult a doctor immediately. With proper care and treatment, Parkinson’s disease can be managed effectively, enabling the patients to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life.
