Medical Concept-Parkinson's Disease word written on blackboard with Stethoscope on wood background
In the US, around 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease every year. This amounts to almost 1 million people in the nation living with this disease.
Are you worried that you or a loved one might have this disorder? Then read on. In this article, we’ll go over the early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease so you know what to watch out for.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is considered a nervous system disorder. Usually, it affects people older than 65, but it is possible (but rare) for younger people to have this disease. It’s also more commonly found in men than women.
With Parkinson’s disease, your brain decreases its production of the chemical dopamine, which means a wide range of symptoms can start appearing once this happens.
Early Warning Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
One of the most noticeable signs of Parkinson’s disease is tremors. Those affected with this disorder will start shaking, especially in the chin, hands, or legs.
At first, it’ll be very subtle and only the person will notice it. But as the disease progresses, the tremors will get worse. Others around them will notice these tremors.
Other early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease include:
- Difficulty walking (such as shuffling)
- Difficulty with balance
- Bradykinesia (slowed or lack of movement)
- Stooping
- Stiffness
- Difficulty with facial expressions
- Micrographia (abnormally small handwriting)
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of smell
- Changes in speech (such as loss of volume or tone)
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Dizziness and/or fainting
The symptoms may vary from person to person. This means that just because you’ve noticed these signs in someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have Parkinson’s disease.
What to Do if You Notice Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
If you notice that you or a loved one has any of the above early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease, you should book an appointment with a doctor. The earlier you receive a diagnosis, the better your outcome.
For example, your GP can refer you to an occupational therapist, neurologist, and medical social worker to help you manage the rest of your life. In addition, they can recommend an exercise regimen and prescribe necessary medications to manage Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
Some of these medications can be quite expensive, so it might be a good idea to fill them on online Canadian pharmacies such as PriceProPharmacy.com to save some money.
Know How to Recognize the Warning Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
Now you know the early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease. If you recognize these symptoms in either yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a doctor. Together, you can figure out a treatment plan that’ll allow you to remain as independent as possible, no matter what this disorder throws at you.
If you found this article on the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease helpful, then read more about health and fitness by browsing our blog page.
