How to recognize early onset symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

January 3, 2017

Because Parkinson’s is a chronic and progressive neurological disease, symptoms are often mild at the onset, becoming more severe throughout time. Initial symptoms might be so subtle that they’re even difficult for specialists to detect, according to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Symptoms also might be different for some patients than others and might progress at different paces.

Dopamine loss is a major contributor to the onset of Parkinson’s disease. Dopamine controls movement and mood, so when dopamine is affected, walking, talking and writing can be impacted. Depression or anxiety might accompany other symptoms.

The National Institutes of Health says Parkinson’s disease affects as many as 500,000 people in the United States. An early diagnosis might help improve quality of life and delay the onset of greater motor issues. Here’s what to look for and discuss with a doctor.

• Micrographia and other handwriting issues occur. Those with Parkinson’s disease might start experiencing changes in their handwriting. Penmanship might look cramped, and letters tend to be smaller than normal (micrographia). Individuals might find it difficult to hold a pen and write.

• Tremors take place in a limb. Tremors usually begin in the hands or fingers and might even mimic a pill-rolling technique, which is a tremor between the thumb and forefinger. Tremors usually occur when the limb is at rest.

• Pace or activities slow down. Parkinson’s disease might reduce one’s ability to move and might slow down movements. An early symptom might be a noticeable slowing down in steps or ability to react to something, such as a ball being thrown one’s way. Some with Parkinson’s might drag their feet or shuffle as they walk, or find it difficult to get out of a chair.

• Loss of automatic movements and functions can occur. Difficulty with unconscious movements, such as blinking, smiling or even swinging arms, might occur when a person has Parkinson’s disease. Movements might be uncoordinated and stiff. Increased salivation and perspiration also might be indicators.

• Poor balance and loss of posture might develop. People with Parkinson’s disease might hunch over more and more, and be unable to stand up straight. Balance issues, such as greater incidences of falls or being able to tip over more easily, might occur.

• Speech can change. Changes in speech can begin, including hesitating before speaking, slurring words or speaking in a monotone voice.

• Others might notice a masked face. This describes a vacant or fixed stare and lack of facial animation.

• Sleep issues might increase. Parkinson’s disease can affect sleeping patterns and behaviors. People with Parkinson’s might experience vivid dreams and nightmares, as well as an inability to stay asleep. Daytime drowsiness also might occur.

Parkinson’s disease is rare, and symptoms that mimic those of Parkinson’s might be caused by other conditions. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing repeated symptoms of any of the ones described here, speak with your general practitioner or a neurologist.

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