Parkinson’s Disease Warning Signs: Unlikely Symptoms That Show Up Years Before Diagnosis

Parkinson’s

disease is among the most commonly associated conditions with visible movement issues like tremors, stiffness, and slow movements. However, by the time you may get diagnosed, the disease has often been developing quietly for years—sometimes even decades. Scientists now say that Parkinson’s begins long before diagnosis, and a few very early warning signs that are subtle can be easy to miss. So, it is important to understand these early symptoms with the help of medical advice sooner so that there is an earlier diagnosis and better management.

Very early signs of Parkinson’s

Loss of smell

More than 90 per cent of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s report a reduced or lost sense of smell as among the earliest and most common warning signs, with many experiencing this change even 10 to 20 years before movement symptoms begin. Since it is totally painless and gradual, it is often dismissed as aging, allergies, or sinus problems. Research, published in the National Institutes of Health, suggests that the disease could begin in the olfactory bulb – the part of the brain that controls the sense of smell, where abnormal proteins can damage neurons.

Sleep disorder and vivid dreams

Many people who act out their dreams, which include shouting, punching, or kicking during sleep, may be showing very early indicators of Parkinson’s disease. This condition – also known as REM sleep behaviour disorder- precedes Parkinson’s by many years. Chronic insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness may also appear early.Also read: Top AIIMS Neurologist Reveals 3 Behaviours to Avoid If You Want to Prevent Dementia and Parkinson’s

Constipation

Chronic and long-term constipation often appears years before diagnosis. While it may be vague, as constipation could be due to many reasons, you must get yourself checked with the doctor for further investigations. According to the Mayo Clinic, Parkinson’s affects the nervous system that controls digestion, slowing down bowel movements. There is a lot of research happening to know the real connection your gut has with neurological issues.

Fatigue and pain

Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest is commonly reported as an early Parkinson’s sign. A few people also complain of recurrent shoulder pain, neck stiffness, or generalized body aches that may seem unrelated to injury. These symptoms may be early signs of subtle muscle rigidity or nerve changes.

Dizziness when standing up

Postural low blood pressure, known as orthostatic hypotension, happens when there is a drop in blood pressure when you go from sitting or lying down to standing immediately. Stanford Medicine says the low blood pressure of orthostatic hypotension leads to dizziness, lightheadedness, and maybe even fainting.

Why is early awareness important?

Since there is no cure for Parkinson’s, it is important to recognise even the earliest signs that can help in better symptom management, lifestyle adjustments, and participation in clinical trials that are aimed at slowing the progression of the disease. Experts advise seeing a doctor if multiple symptoms persist over time, especially if they occur together or worsen gradually.