Every year, roughly 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. It’s important to identify early warning signs of this neurodegenerative condition so you can seek treatment and make lifestyle changes. Though there’s no cure for this disease, early intervention can mitigate symptoms and slow its progression. Here are a few key early indicators to know. 

3 Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

1. Tremors 

While your body may shake for a short period immediately following a stressful event or a strenuous exercise routine, muscle spasms in your hands, fingers, and chin should not be ignored. Mild tremors and spasms while at rest with no attributable cause could mean the dopamine-producing cells in your brain are weakening. 

2. Diminished Sense of Smell & Taste

Patients developing Parkinson’s often inform their doctors of a dulled sense of smell. The root cause of this symptom is still under research. Should it become increasingly difficult to enjoy foods or detect odors that should clearly be strong and unpleasant, such as rubbish, a neurological examination is recommended. 

3. Dizziness or Fainting Spells

Dizziness and fainting spells occur for many reasons; it’s often a simple matter of dehydration or inadequate food intake. However, lightheadedness, giddiness, weakness, and loss of consciousness can also be early signs of Parkinson’s, especially upon rising up from a seated position. For reasons that are still little understood, the early stages of the condition are often associated with orthostatic hypotension, or a sharp loss in blood pressure that occurs upon standing. If you experience this potential symptom, it’s best to consult with your doctor. 

Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson's is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) charity organization that strives to support individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Their dedicated volunteers are proud to foster a strong community, increase awareness of the disease, and provide helpful resources for Connecticut residents impacted by Parkinson’s. To learn more about their upcoming events, call today at (860) 266-6040. For additional insight into this charity and how you can get involved, visit their website.