HOW TO SPOT THE EARLY SIGNS OF PARKINSON’S
It’s true that Parkinson’s disease (PD) is often associated with motor symptoms like tremors and stiffness. However, some of the earliest signs may be entirely non-motor. In fact, symptoms such as depression, constipation, loss of smell, sleep disturbances, or behavior disorders can appear years or even decades before motor symptoms begin. This early, “pre-motor” phase of PD is transforming how researchers view diagnosis and treatment.
Scientists now know that changes in the brain, including the buildup of alpha-synuclein proteins, begin in areas that control non-motor functions before spreading to motor regions. New breakthroughs in biomarker testing are helping to detect these changes earlier than ever before.
Although routine screening for early signs of PD isn’t yet standard due to the lack of treatments that slow or prevent disease progression, there is hope. Researchers are actively studying individuals with only non-motor symptoms to better identify those who may benefit from early interventions. If you or a loved one is experiencing early signs of PD — motor or non-motor — speak with a neurologist. Read more about this topic!