No matter what your age, a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is life changing. Because the disease progresses slowly, many people fail to notice or seek medical attention for their symptoms. In fact, a survey by the National Parkinson Foundation found that people will avoid seeing a physician to discuss Parkinson’s even if they are exhibiting cardinal symptoms, such a tremor.
Early detection, however, is the key to successful treatment and disease management. By addressing troublesome symptoms early on, people can secure the best chance at a longer, healthier life.
Here are 14 warning signs of Parkinson’s Disease onset you need to know:
- Resting tremor, twitching or shaking of the limbs
- Trouble sleeping; thrashing, punching or kicking during sleep
- Loss of smell or Anosmia
- Small, crowded handwriting
- Stiffness
- Constipation
- A soft voice
- Stooping or hunching over
- Change in facial expressions; “Masked face”
- “Frozen”, painful shoulder
- Depression and anxiety
- Limping or dragging one foot
- An internal sensation of trembling
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness or fainting upon standing
If you are experiencing one or more of the symptoms above, do not panic and speak to your physician. Keep in mind that PD develops differently from person to person, so these signs are not definitive of a diagnosis. A neurologist who specializes in Parkinson’s Disease can evaluate you and your symptoms.
