Experts have highlighted several early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, that are often easily overlooked. While hand tremors are the most well-known symptom, there are many subtler indicators that can appear years before a diagnosis. According to Victoria Baggaley, senior helpline advisor at Parkinson’s UK, and Dr. Simon Stott, director at Cure Parkinson’s, early detection is key to managing the disease and slowing its progression. Speaking to The Sun, both experts shared ten little-known signs that may indicate Parkinson’s, which range from changes in smell and sleep patterns to mood and movement issues, emphasizing that noticing these symptoms early can make a difference in treatment. Early intervention can help doctors create personalized treatment plans and improve the quality of life for patients.
Parkinson’s warning signs you shouldn’t ignore
1. Loss of sense of smell
Baggaley explained that some people may struggle to detect familiar scents or foods, often years before other symptoms appear. This subtle change is frequently dismissed but can be an early indicator of Parkinson’s. Studies suggest that olfactory loss can occur up to a decade before motor symptoms emerge, making it a critical early clue. People may notice they no longer enjoy cooking aromas or fail to smell everyday items, signaling a potential early sign.
2. Sleep problems
Sleep issues such as stiffness, pain, restless legs, frequent nighttime urination, and sleep apnea—brief interruptions in breathing during sleep—are common in early Parkinson’s. These disturbances can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Experts say noticing unusual sleep patterns or sudden changes in restfulness can prompt early discussions with a GP. Sleep disruption is often one of the first non-motor symptoms to appear, long before tremors or rigidity.
3. Smaller handwriting
Parkinson’s can cause movements to become smaller and less forceful. This may result in gradually shrinking handwriting, a sign often missed by patients and their loved ones. Experts note that writing may also become cramped or less legible over time. Observing these subtle changes early can help differentiate normal aging from early Parkinson’s symptoms. It’s often the first motor sign noticed by teachers, colleagues, or family members.
4. Bladder and bowel issues
Frequent urges to urinate, needing to go suddenly, or nighttime trips to the bathroom are common bladder symptoms. Constipation is the most frequent bowel issue, says Baggaley. These issues can begin quietly and worsen gradually, often causing embarrassment or anxiety for patients. Early recognition is important, as these symptoms can precede motor signs and help doctors identify Parkinson’s sooner. Managing bladder and bowel changes early can also improve overall comfort and daily functioning.
5. Depression
Nearly half of Parkinson’s patients experience depression, which can appear as persistent sadness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, or changes in appetite. Baggaley emphasizes that depression in Parkinson’s is not just emotional but often accompanied by physical fatigue or loss of interest in usual activities. Recognizing mood changes early can lead to supportive therapies that improve quality of life and reduce the burden of the disease. Mental health support is considered an essential part of early intervention.
6. Anxiety
Early anxiety in Parkinson’s may not just involve constant worrying. It can include breathlessness, sweating, a racing heart, concentration difficulties, and a sense of dread. Experts point out that these symptoms can fluctuate, making them easy to dismiss as stress or lifestyle-related. Noticing sudden, unexplained anxiety episodes, especially alongside other early signs, can help prompt medical evaluation. Anxiety often coexists with depression in Parkinson’s patients.
7. Fatigue
Persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest affects about half of Parkinson’s patients. It can fluctuate day to day, making it easy to dismiss as normal tiredness. Baggaley notes that this fatigue is often different from regular tiredness, as it can interfere with simple tasks, hobbies, or social interactions. Monitoring unusual or persistent exhaustion is important for early diagnosis and managing overall energy levels in daily life.
8. Uncontrollable movements
While hand tremors are well-known, Parkinson’s can cause involuntary movements in other parts of the body, such as an arm or foot on the same side where symptoms begin. These movements may appear sporadically and may worsen with stress or fatigue. Stott explains that early detection of these subtle motor changes can allow for interventions that help maintain mobility and function. Patients may notice these movements when performing precise tasks like writing or using utensils.
9. Slow movement (bradykinesia)
Bradykinesia refers to slower movements, including tasks like walking, paying for items, or daily chores. It can appear gradually and is often mistaken for aging or fatigue. Experts advise monitoring changes in walking speed, the time taken to complete routine activities, or difficulty initiating movements. Bradykinesia is a hallmark motor symptom that often signals Parkinson’s progression, and early recognition allows for timely physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
10. Muscle stiffness and cramps
Stiff muscles, inflexibility, and cramps can make routine tasks—such as writing, buttoning a shirt, or getting out of bed—challenging, signaling early Parkinson’s. These symptoms can increase over time, leading to decreased range of motion and discomfort. Early attention to stiffness and cramps allows patients to begin exercises, stretches, and treatments that preserve mobility and reduce pain. Recognizing these early motor signs alongside other symptoms is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation.
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