Introduction
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It is estimated that more than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease. While there is no single test to diagnose Parkinson’s, there are certain signs and symptoms that can indicate the presence of the disease. In this article, we will discuss some of the sure signs that you may be getting Parkinson’s, according to science. We will also provide some tips on how to reduce your risk of developing the disease. Finally, we will provide some dietary advice on what to eat and what to avoid in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle and reduce your risk of developing Parkinson’s.
Sure Signs You’re Getting Parkinson’s, According to Science
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It is caused by the death of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
If you’re concerned that you may be developing Parkinson’s, here are some signs to look out for, according to science:
1. Tremors
One of the most common signs of Parkinson’s is a tremor, or shaking, in one or both hands. This tremor usually begins in the fingers or thumb and can be worse when the hand is at rest. It may also be accompanied by a feeling of stiffness in the affected limb.
2. Slowed Movement
People with Parkinson’s may experience a slowing of movement, known as bradykinesia. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or writing. It can also cause a person to walk with a shuffling gait.
3. Rigidity
Rigidity, or stiffness, in the muscles is another common symptom of Parkinson’s. This can cause pain and difficulty with movement. It can also lead to a decrease in range of motion.
4. Balance Problems
People with Parkinson’s may experience balance problems, such as a feeling of unsteadiness or a tendency to fall. This can be caused by a combination of rigidity, slowed movement, and impaired reflexes.
5. Speech Changes
Parkinson’s can cause changes in speech, such as a soft or monotone voice, slurred speech, or difficulty finding the right words. It can also cause a person to speak more slowly than usual.
6. Writing Changes
People with Parkinson’s may experience changes in their handwriting, such as smaller letters or a shaky hand. This can make it difficult to write legibly.
7. Cognitive Changes
Parkinson’s can cause changes in thinking and behavior, such as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and depression. It can also cause a person to become more impulsive or have difficulty making decisions.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
Parkinson’s disease—a progressive disorder of the brain and central nervous system that can impair movement and speech—may have vague or subtle symptoms at first. (Actor Michael J. Fox said he was diagnosed after feeling a twitch in his left little finger.) But it’s important to know what the first signals may be, so a proper diagnosis can be made and treatment can begin as soon as possible. These are some of the most common signs of Parkinson’s disease, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Some people with Parkinson’s develop a tremor, or shaking. This often initially appears in your finger, hand or chin while you’re at rest.
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Stiffness or trouble moving could be caused by an injury or issue like arthritis. But if the stiffness doesn’t go away when you move, it can be a sign of Parkinson’s disease. An early signal may be stiffness or pain in your shoulder or hips; you might also feel like your feet are stuck to the floor.
Micrographia—when your handwriting gets smaller or more crowded—can be a sign of Parkinson’s. Arthritis or vision changes can also cause it, but if you notice this in combination with other symptoms, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider.
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Loss of smell could be a sign of COVID-19. It can also be a symptom of Parkinson’s. If you experience a loss of smell, it’s a good idea to get tested for COVID. But your ability to detect scents should come back. If it doesn’t, ask your doctor if you should be screened for PD.
Parkinson’s affects the autonomic nervous system and prevents it from functioning properly, and that can slow down the digestive system and affect how your bowels move. If constipation is a new issue for you or has lasted longer than three weeks, call your doctor.
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Your expression may appear serious or even angry when you don’t intend it to. If you’ve been told you look serious, depressed, or mad when you’re feeling fine, ask your doctor whether PD screening is warranted.
You might feel a sense of dizziness when you stand up, or notice changes in your posture at any time. Those changes may include stooping, hunching over, or leaning.
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If you’re experiencing more than one of the above symptoms, it’s a good idea to see your doctor. If you’re diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease by an internist or geriatrician, the Parkinson’s Foundation recommends following up with a movement disorder specialist for a second opinion. These neurologists are specifically trained to diagnose and treat Parkinson’s. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.