Identifying Early Warning Signs of Parkinson’s Disease: What to Watch For

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative condition that affects people's mobility, balance and cognitive functions. It starts as slow tremors or small falls due to balance issues and can progress to a stage where any movement is difficult. It is important to be able to recognise the signs and symptoms as early as possible, and seek the right treatment at the right time to avoid complications in the future. 

Parkinson’s does not have a specific test that can confirm the condition, but is a combination of factors that make diagnosis difficult. If you notice any early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, reach out to our experts at Physiotattva and get proper care at the earliest.

Understanding Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects the brain and impacts movement when nerve cells that produce dopamine, a chemical responsible for controlling movement, become damaged. Over time, it can cause issues with balance, walking, and coordination. While the exact cause isn't known, genetics and environmental factors can contribute to the development of early signs of Parkinson’s disease.

Importance of Early Detection

Parkinson’s begins with small bouts of tremors and motor issues that progress over a period of time. It can often get lost as stress or lack of rest. If you notice any of these early signs of Parkinson’s disease persist, consult a medical professional at the earliest to avoid complications. It can help in early diagnosis, finding if there are any other underlying conditions, and making necessary changes. It helps families and friends learn about the condition and allows everyone to settle into managing the condition.

Common Early Motor Symptoms

In the early stages of Parkinson’s, common symptoms include tremors or shaking in one hand, stiffness in muscles, slow or difficult movements, and changes in posture or balance. You might notice that walking becomes more challenging, or that small tasks, like tying shoes, take longer. These early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease should not be ignored.

Tremors

Tremors are one of the most common signs of Parkinson’s. They usually start in one hand and can spread to other parts of the body. The shaking happens when the muscles are at rest, and may become more noticeable over time. It can start impacting day-to-day activities such as driving, cooking and using mobile phones.

Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement)

Bradykinesia refers to slow movement, which can make daily tasks take longer. Simple actions like getting up from a chair, walking, or brushing your teeth might become difficult. It can feel like there’s a delay in starting or finishing movements.

Muscle Rigidity

Muscles begin to stiffen, which can affect the arms, legs, or neck, making it difficult to bend or turn. It can lead to discomfort and may limit mobility. Over time, the flexibility of muscles and joints reduces and can become painful.

Postural Instability

People with Parkinson’s may have difficulty standing or walking without losing their balance. They might fall more often, especially when turning or making sudden movements. Postural instability is one of the first signs of Parkinson’s disease, and it can heighten the risk of falls and injuries.

Early Non-Motor Symptoms

Non-motor symptoms can include issues like sleep disturbances, constipation, and changes in mood. Although not everyone with Parkinson's experiences them, it can become more prominent with time and as the condition progresses. 

Loss of Smell (Anosmia)

A loss of smell is a common early symptom of Parkinson’s that many people don’t initially connect to the disease. It can affect the ability to detect certain scents or notice changes in smells. This symptom may appear years before more obvious signs of Parkinson’s and can be one of the first indicators.

Sleep Disturbances

People with Parkinson’s might find it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling unrefreshed. Restless legs, vivid dreams, or frequent night time awakenings are common. Getting enough quality sleep can be a challenge. This can cause an irritable mood and increased fatigue, which can have an impact on physical symptoms such as increased tremors and poor balance.

Constipation

Constipation can be an early non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s, often occurring due to changes in the digestive system. It can cause discomfort and may become a persistent issue. It is important to eat fibre-rich food, cut down on processed food and drink plenty of water.

Mood Changes (Depression and Anxiety)

Mood changes, including feelings of depression or anxiety, are common in Parkinson’s, even in the early stages. These shifts can occur independently of any movement symptoms and may affect energy levels and social interactions. Irritable mood and erratic emotions are also signs that need to be addressed.

Recognising Subtle Early Signs

Early signs of Parkinson’s can be easy to miss. You might notice slight changes in movement or behaviour that don’t seem like a big deal at first. These subtle signs can include small tremors, stiffness, or trouble with balance.

Changes in Handwriting (Micrographia)

One of the initial indicators of Parkinson’s disease is micrographia, characterised by a shrinking and tightening of handwriting. It may become harder to write clearly or you might notice that the letters look more crowded together. If handwriting starts to change, it could be an early indicator. This often is a sign of poor hand-eye coordination, stiffness in muscles and occasional tremors that make writing a difficult task.

Voice Changes (Soft or Slurred Speech)

Voice changes can happen early in Parkinson’s, making speech softer or more slurred. You might notice that it’s harder to project your voice, or that others have trouble hearing you. The change in speech can be gradual, and it’s often one of the early signs that people overlook.

Facial Masking (Reduced Facial Expression)

Facial masking is when the face shows fewer expressions, making you look less animated or less responsive than usual. It’s not about feeling any different, but rather how your emotions are reflected on your face. This can make you appear less expressive, even when you’re not feeling that way.

Common Challenges in Identifying Early Parkinson's Symptoms

Parkinson’s can be tricky to identify as there are no immediate or clear signs or symptoms. It is a subtle condition that often gets overlooked as fatigue, restlessness or is attributed to other conditions.

• Subtlety of Early Symptoms

Early signs of Parkinson’s can be hard to spot because they often start small. You might experience slight tremors, stiffness, or changes in movement that don’t seem like much at first. These subtle changes can easily be overlooked or dismissed as normal aging or fatigue.

• Similarity to Other Conditions

Many early Parkinson’s symptoms resemble those of other conditions, like stress, fatigue, or arthritis. For example, tremors and stiffness can also be caused by other factors, making it tricky to pinpoint Parkinson’s. Without clear signs, it can be hard to tell what’s happening early on.

• Variability in Symptom Onset and Progression

Parkinson’s symptoms don’t appear the same way in everyone. Some people may experience tremors first, while others deal with muscle rigidity or balance issues. The symptoms can also progress at different rates, making it difficult to identify and predict the course of the disease early on.

• Lack of Awareness About Non-Motor Symptoms

Non-motor symptoms like sleep problems, mood changes, or loss of smell are often ignored or misunderstood. People may not realise these could be early signs of Parkinson’s, especially since they don’t directly affect movement.

• Reluctance to Seek Medical Help Early

Many people hesitate to see a doctor when they notice early signs of Parkinson’s. They might think the symptoms are just part of aging or dismiss them as not serious enough. This reluctance can delay diagnosis and early intervention, which is crucial for managing the condition.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

If you notice changes in movement, balance, or coordination that don’t go away, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. Symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with everyday tasks can be early signs of Parkinson’s. Getting checked out early helps manage any issues and get the right care.

Importance of Medical Evaluation and Early Intervention

The sooner you get a diagnosis, the sooner you can begin managing symptoms and slowing progression. Medical professionals can guide you on lifestyle changes and therapies that can make a big difference in quality of life and long-term outcomes.

Diagnostic Procedures for Early Detection

To diagnose Parkinson’s, doctors use a combination of your medical history, physical exams, and sometimes imaging tests. They look for signs like tremors, stiffness, and bradykinesia. While there’s no single test, a thorough evaluation can help pinpoint whether Parkinson’s or another condition is causing your symptoms. They will enquire about environmental and genetic factors to rule out any underlying conditions.

Managing Early Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's is a condition that can be managed with lifestyle changes, using protective equipment, medication and having a healthier lifestyle. A positive social setting can reduce the intensity of early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and be a good support.

Lifestyle Modifications

Making changes like staying active, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress can help manage early Parkinson’s symptoms. Regular exercise, like walking or strength training, keeps the body moving and helps with stiffness. Staying in touch with others and challenging our minds truly enhances our well-being, helping our daily activities feel a little easier.

Medical Treatments

Doctors may prescribe medications to help control tremors, slowness, and rigidity. Depending on symptoms, physical therapy and other treatments like speech therapy can help improve mobility and communication. Working with a healthcare provider can ensure the right plan is in place. Always consult a medical professional before using medication.

Proactive Health Monitoring

Regular check-ups and monitoring symptoms track changes in movement, mood, or sleep patterns that help your healthcare provider adjust treatments as needed. Keeping up with routine exams and staying on top of any changes can lead to better management and help slow progression.

Physiotattva: Supporting Your Journey in Recognising and Managing Parkinson’s

At Physiotattva, we’re here to support you in recognising and managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Our personalised physiotherapy sessions focus on improving movement, strength, and balance to help you maintain independence. We have a dedicated team of experts who understand your needs and help you and your family to get the right care. Take the first step today with us to enhance your quality of life!

At Physiotattva physiotherapy clinics in Bangalore and Hyderabad, you receive personalised care tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective results and comfort throughout your journey to recovery. 

Don’t wait to start your recovery! Get in touch with Physiotattva for more details! Contact us at +91 89510 47001.

FAQs

What is usually the first symptom of Parkinson's disease?

The first symptom often includes slight tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with movement, typically starting on one side of the body. Other early signs might include changes in handwriting, slower movement, or a reduced sense of smell.

How long does early stage Parkinson's last?

Early-stage Parkinson's can last for several years, with symptoms gradually becoming more noticeable. The progression varies for each person, but with proper management, individuals may experience minimal changes in the early stages while maintaining a good quality of life.

How to test for Parkinson's at home?

While there's no at-home test, you can look for signs like hand tremors, stiff muscles, slow movement, or difficulty balancing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get in touch with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and a precise diagnosis.

How to avoid Parkinson's?

Avoiding Parkinson’s involves staying active, eating a balanced diet, reducing stress, and protecting yourself from toxins. Regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk.