Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor system of the body. It is characterized by a loss of dopamine-producing cells in the midbrain, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement.

However, there are several other early symptoms of Parkinson’s that are often overlooked. In this article, we’ll explore these symptoms and their significance in detecting Parkinson’s disease.

1. Loss of Sense of Smell

One of the earliest signs of Parkinson’s disease is the loss of the sense of smell. This can occur years before the tremors and other motor symptoms appear.

According to research studies, up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s disease have some degree of olfactory dysfunction. The loss of the sense of smell is often gradual and may go unnoticed by the patient. However, it is a significant indicator of Parkinson’s disease and should not be ignored.

Patients who experience a sudden loss of sense of smell should consult a doctor immediately.

2. REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is another early symptom of Parkinson’s disease. In RBD, the muscle paralysis normally associated with REM sleep is absent, causing people to act out their dreams.

This can involve talking, shouting, punching, kicking, and other movements. RBD may occur up to a decade before motor symptoms appear and is present in up to 80% of Parkinson’s patients.

If you experience sudden and intense movements during sleep or witness such behavior in your partner, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

3. Constipation

Constipation is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease that typically occurs years before the onset of motor symptoms. Studies have shown that nearly 90% of Parkinson’s patients experience constipation.

The reason behind the link between Parkinson’s disease and constipation is not yet clear, but it is assumed that the disease affects the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for maintaining the digestive system’s balance. If you experience chronic constipation, consult a doctor, especially if you have other early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

4. Fatigue

While fatigue can be a symptom of many illnesses, it is often present in Parkinson’s patients years before the onset of motor symptoms.

Fatigue in Parkinson’s disease is usually described as a feeling of exhaustion or lack of energy, even after adequate sleep. It can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Fatigue may be caused by the neurodegenerative process of Parkinson’s disease or by the medications used to treat it.

If you experience sudden and prolonged fatigue, consult a doctor.

5. Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are common among people with Parkinson’s disease and can also occur years before motor symptoms appear. People with Parkinson’s disease are at a higher risk of developing these conditions than the general population.

Depression and anxiety can further exacerbate other Parkinson’s symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. If you experience prolonged feelings of sadness or anxiety, consult a doctor.

6. Joint and Muscular Pain

Joint and muscular pain are often present in Parkinson’s patients and can occur years before the onset of motor symptoms. These types of pain often start in the shoulder or arm and can be mistaken for an injury or arthritis.

In reality, they are caused by the changes in the nervous system associated with Parkinson’s disease. The pain can vary in intensity and duration and can often be managed with medications. If you experience unexplained joint and muscular pain that persists, consult a doctor.

7. Changes in Speech

Changes in speech are often overlooked as an early symptom of Parkinson’s disease. People with Parkinson’s disease may speak softly, slur their words, or experience difficulty in speaking clearly.

This can significantly impact their ability to communicate, leading to frustration and isolation. Changes in speech can occur years before the onset of motor symptoms and may be accompanied by changes in the voice, such as hoarseness or monotony.

If you experience such changes in your speech or hear them in a loved one, consult a doctor immediately.

8. Vision Problems

Changes in vision can also be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease. People with Parkinson’s disease may experience difficulty in reading small print or seeing in low light. They may also have trouble judging distances and perceiving colors.

These vision problems can often be attributed to the effects of Parkinson’s disease on the nervous system. If you experience sudden changes in vision, especially along with other symptoms mentioned in this article, consult a doctor immediately.

9. Cognitive Changes

While cognitive changes typically occur in the later stages of Parkinson’s disease, they can also be a sign of the disease’s early stages.

People with Parkinson’s disease may experience difficulty in focusing, problem-solving, and performing tasks that require multitasking. Memory problems, especially short-term memory, can also occur. These changes in cognition are often subtle at first but can progress over time. If you notice such changes in yourself or a loved one, consult a doctor immediately.

10. Loss of Dexterity

People with Parkinson’s disease may experience a loss of dexterity, making simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt or tying shoelaces difficult. This loss of dexterity is often attributed to the stiffness and rigidity caused by the disease.

It can occur years before the onset of motor symptoms. If you experience unexplained difficulty in performing tasks that were previously easy, consult a doctor immediately.

In Conclusion

Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

While tremors and other motor symptoms are the most well-known signs of Parkinson’s disease, there are several other early symptoms that are often overlooked. Recognizing these symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better management of the disease. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this article, consult a doctor immediately.