10 EARLY SIGNS OF PARKINSON’S DISEASE

The first signs of Parkinson’s disease can appear as early as fifteen years before significant symptoms are present.

Early detection is critically important for determining the causation of symptoms.

The range of reasons for Parkinson like symptoms is wide. For example, it could be Lyme disease, or Alzheimer’s, or micro bleeding of the brain, or many other causes.

Early detection of these conditions allows for medical and/or nutritional intervention.

RECOMMENDATION:

If you have any of the following signs, make an appointment with a NEUROLOGIST and ask for a full assessment. This must include various movement tests and two types of brain scans. The first is an MRI to rule out other possible causes of these signs. The second is the DAT scan. It assesses the brain’s dopamine transport system. This one is essential.

When you shopping for a Neurologist, ask the receptionist if the doctor provides these brain scans. If the answer is no, find another doctor. Too many medical people will say that it is too early to make a diagnosis. NOT TRUE! The quality of your life is at risk and you want the best possible care available.

Sign # 1 Constipation

One of the most frequently reported signs of PD is constipation. This condition can have many causes including PD. It is defined as having fewer than two bowel movements per week. One every morning is ideal. Additionally, BMs that are strained and uncomfortable are part of the definition. Typically, the fecal matter is hard and dry.

Sign # 2 Tremor

Another early sign is a resting tremor. It might appear as uncontrolled movement in a finger, thumb, hand or chin.

Sign # 3 Small Handwriting

The sudden occurrence of a change in the size of a person’s handwriting is an early sign.

Sign # 4 Loss of Smell

The loss of smell can happen for many reasons. A cold or flu might be the cause. The key here is that the sense of smell does not return. Try smelling bananas, dill pickles, or sauerkraut.

Sign # 5 Trouble Sleeping

Waking up might be caused by sudden movements or tremors and the person is unable to immediately back to sleep. Stiffness and rigid muscles are also contributors to sleep problems.

Sign # 6 Trouble Moving or Walking

A person’s arms are to swing when walking. If one or both arms stop swinging it could be an early sign. Further, the sensation of feet sticking to the floor when walking is another sign.

Sign # 7 A Soft of Low Voice

Yet another sign is when a person’s voice softens and the volume is reduced. If other people are frequently saying that they can not hear you or understand you, we have another sign.

Sign # 8 Masked Face

With PD, the muscles of the face lose tone and it becomes increasingly more without expression. A person may look inappropriately more serious or stare blankly into space.

Sign # 9 Dizziness or Fainting

Feeling dizzy or fainting can be a sign of low blood pressure. Blood pressure is partially regulated by dopamine (the problem with PD).

Sign # 10 Stopping or Hunching Over

Muscles can become both weak and rigid with PD. Stooping, leaning, and slouching when a person is standing is problematic and often an early sign.

With PD, any of these signs is a warning that something is wrong. A thorough medical exam with appropriate brain scans is called for.