Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that primarily affects the motor system. PD is characterized by tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability.

However, the first sign of Parkinson’s disease may not be related to movement. Non-motor symptoms such as sleep disorders, constipation, and depression can occur years before the onset of movement-related symptoms.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. These symptoms can occur even before the onset of motor symptoms.

Depression is more prevalent in the early stages of the disease, while anxiety may be more common in the later stages. It is important to note that these symptoms can also be side effects of medication used to treat PD.

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are another common non-motor symptom of PD. Sleep disturbances can occur at any stage of the disease, and include insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, and restless leg syndrome.

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder is also common in people with PD. In REM sleep behavior disorder, the individual acts out their dreams, which can be dangerous for both the patient and their bed partner.

Constipation

Constipation is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It occurs when the muscles in the colon and rectum do not work properly, leading to difficulty passing stool.

Constipation can occur at any stage of the disease and may be related to the decrease in dopamine levels in the gut due to PD.

Loss of Sense of Smell

Loss of the sense of smell, or anosmia, is a common early non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. The sense of smell is controlled by the olfactory bulb, which is located in the brain.

This area of the brain is also affected by Parkinson’s disease. As a result, loss of the sense of smell can occur before the onset of movement-related symptoms.

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This includes decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty achieving orgasm.

These symptoms can be related to the decrease in dopamine levels in the brain and can occur at any stage of the disease.

Psychosis

Psychosis is a rare but severe non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It can occur in advanced stages of the disease and is characterized by hallucinations and delusions.

Psychosis is typically treated with antipsychotic medication, but these medications can worsen motor symptoms of PD.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It can occur at any stage of the disease and can be related to both physical and mental exertion.

Fatigue can also be related to sleep disturbances and depression, which are common non-motor symptoms of PD.

Urinary Problems

Urinary problems are a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This includes incontinence and difficulty starting or stopping urination.

These symptoms can be related to the decrease in dopamine levels in the brain and can occur at any stage of PD.

Pain

Pain is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. It can be related to stiffness and rigidity caused by PD, as well as to the physical limitations caused by the disease.

Pain can also be related to depression, which is a common non-motor symptom of PD.

Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This includes difficulties with concentration, memory, and executive function.

Cognitive impairment can occur in the early stages of the disease and can be related to the degeneration of areas of the brain that control these functions.

Conclusion

Non-motor symptoms can occur years before the onset of motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease.

These symptoms include depression, sleep disorders, constipation, loss of sense of smell, sexual dysfunction, psychosis, fatigue, urinary problems, pain, and cognitive impairment. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and are important to diagnose and treat.

Early detection and treatment of non-motor symptoms can help delay the onset of motor symptoms and improve overall quality of life for those with Parkinson’s disease.