Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects approximately one million Americans. Researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors causes it. There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but there are treatments that can improve the quality of life for people affected by the disease. Knowing these seven early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease can help you or your family member get the treatment you need as soon as possible.
Tremor or Shaking
The most common early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease are tremors or shaking. This usually starts in one hand, but it can eventually spread to both hands. Often, the tremors are worse when the hand is at rest or when the person is under stress.
Rigidity
Rigidity, or stiffness, is another common early warning sign of Parkinson’s. This can cause difficulty moving or a feeling of being “stuck” in one position. The rigidity may be mild at first, but it often worsens over time.
Bradykinesia
Bradykinesia is a decrease in the speed of movement. This can cause problems with walking, talking, and other everyday activities. Bradykinesia usually starts with minor changes, such as taking a little longer to get out of bed in the morning, and develops slowly over time.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common symptom of many illnesses, but it can also be an early warning sign of Parkinson’s. Fatigue can make completing everyday tasks difficult, and it may cause you to feel more tired during the day.
Postural Instability
When we stand, our muscles work together to keep us upright. However, people with Parkinson’s disease often have postural instability, which means they have difficulty maintaining their balance. This can lead to falls and a feeling of being off balance.
Speech Changes
Changes in speech are another common sign of Parkinson’s disease. This may include a soft voice, monotone speech, or slurred words. People with Parkinson’s disease may also have difficulty swallowing.
Depression
Depression is common in people with Parkinson’s disease. The physical changes that occur as a result of the disease and the stress of dealing with a chronic illness can cause this. Depression can make it difficult for one to cope with day-to-day life and lead to feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
Treatment Plans and Intervention
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment may include medication, physical therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for Parkinson’s. Many people with Parkinson’s disease can lead relatively normal lives with early diagnosis and treatment.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these seven early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease, see a neurologist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Neurospa Brain Rejuvenation Center provides the best possible treatment for people affected by Parkinson’s disease. As an advanced neurology office, our goal is to provide our patients with world-class care. Working with some of the top neurologists in the country, Neurospa offers a variety of treatments for Parkinson’s disease, including medication management, physical therapy, and brain stimulation therapy. Contact us today to speak with a team member and schedule an in-office appointment.
