What you need to know
Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects the nervous system and, over time, leads to restricted movement. Although there is no cure, medication and sometimes surgery can help relieve symptoms.
Scientists provide valuable information about what to look out for if you suspect you or someone you know may have Parkinson’s.
Common symptoms to watch out for
The first signs of Parkinson’s often manifest as a slight tremor or trembling of a hand. These shakes are nothing like the kind you might get after a lot of exercise or too much caffeine.
It is more rhythmic and can happen when the hand is resting. Some people experience a specific type of tremor in which they rub their thumb and index finger together in a motion called “pill rolling.”
But tremors aren’t the only thing to watch out for. Overall, the movement can become slower and more difficult. For example:
- Your steps may become shorter.
- It may become difficult to get up from a chair.
- You may notice that your feet drag or shuffle when you walk.
You may also experience stiffness in your muscles, which can occur anywhere in the body. This stiffness can make moving painful and limit the ability to stretch or bend your arms or legs.
For this reason, people with Parkinson’s may develop a stooped posture, may also have problems with balance, and may be more prone to falls.
Other changes may also occur in the early stages:
- The face may show little or no emotion.
- The arms may not swing normally when walking.
- Speech may become quiet or unclear.
Other changes may occur over time, such as:
- Difficulty blinking or smiling.
- Changes in handwriting, making it appear smaller.
- A monotone speaking voice.
Next steps: When to seek medical advice
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Only a doctor can confirm whether these signs are due to Parkinson’s or another disease.
Early diagnosis can be extremely helpful in relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. So don’t wait, especially if you notice symptoms getting worse or spreading from one side of your body to the other.
By understanding these early signs and symptoms, you will be better prepared to seek help and begin treatment as quickly as possible.
Thanks to advances in medicine and technology, there are more tools than ever to treat Parkinson’s and help people maintain an active lifestyle.
If you are interested in Parkinson’s disease, please read studies about it Vitamin E, which may help prevent Parkinson’s diseaseAnd Vitamin D could benefit people with Parkinson’s disease.
For more information about brain health, see recent studies on new methods to treat Parkinson’s disease and the results showing that COVID-19 may be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
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