Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive brain disorder that affects the central nervous system that occurs when dopamine-producer cells become destroyed or damaged.
While there is no current cure for Parkinson’s disease at the moment, early detection and treatment are key for a patient to live a life with as little difficulty as possible. Parkinson’s disease can often be caught in the beginning stages of its progression if early symptoms are identified.
Light Tremors or Shaking
Shaking and tremors in the body are one of the hallmark symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and usually become more severe as the condition progresses.
Light amounts of tremors or shaking in the fingers, hands, or chin could be an early sign of Parkinson’s. That being said, shaking can occur from other things like strenuous exercise, stress, medication, or injury.
Loss of Smell
A loss or alteration of smell is a common symptom associated with Parkinson’s disease. You may notice in the early stages that certain smells are faint or simply not there. A loss of smell can be an early warning sign of Parkinson’s disease years before other symptoms develop.
Sleep Disturbances
A 2014 study on REM sleep disorders found that sleep disturbances like sleepwalking, sleep talking, and sudden movements in your sleep can be an early sign of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease.
While many things can cause sleep disruptions, it may be beneficial to consider a Parkinson’s screening if you suffer from an idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder (IRBD) .
Writing Smaller Than Usual
Writing in smaller handwriting can be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease. This is called micrographia and reportedly affects roughly 50% of people with the condition.
Handwriting with micrographia becomes smaller, more cramped, and closer together. This is because of the way Parkinson’s disease affects fine motor movements that are needed for writing.
Learn More About Parkinson’s Disease
Being informed about the signs of Parkinson’s disease is essential to catching it in the early stages. That’s why our team of doctors at Texas Neurosurgery LLP in Dallas, TX, focuses on not only treating our patients but educating them.
We are committed to providing treatments that are going to slow the effects and symptoms associated with Parkinson’s to maximize the quality of life of our patients.
If you’re experiencing early symptoms or want to learn more about Parkinson’s disease, contact Texas Neurosurgery LLP at 214-823-2052 to schedule a visit today.
