Because several celebrities are known to suffer from Parkinson's disease, like Michael J. Fox or Neil Diamond, most people are familiar with the condition. However, they tend to be most familiar with the disease's later stages and more obvious symptoms, such as persistent tremors and vision loss. Before these symptoms develop, most patients have more minor symptoms that are easy to ignore or brush off. But if you are diagnosed with Parkinson's at an early stage, there are treatments you can begin taking to slow its progression.
So, what are those early signs of Parkinson's that should prompt you to call a neurologist? Take a look.
Lasting Stiffness
There are many reasons why you could feel stiff when getting out of bed in the morning. Maybe you over-exerted yourself the day before, or perhaps you are developing arthritis. But if your stiffness lasts all day and does not go away within a few days, it could be due to Parkinson's disease. For some patients, the stiffness is isolated to one side of the body, but for others, it seems to be body-wide.
Constipation
Constipation is usually due to eating a diet that's too low in fiber and not drinking enough water. But if you make some dietary changes and you still are unable to use the toilet more than once or twice a week, that could be because of Parkinson's disease. The condition can affect the nerves related to your bowels.
Speaking Softly
Have many of your friends and family members asked you to speak up or talk more clearly in recent months? You may not realize you are talking quietly, but others are pointing it out. This can be a sign of Parkinson's disease. Some people also start to think their voice sounds hoarse or different in some indescribable way.
Bouts of Dizziness
This is another symptom that can have many causes, ranging from low blood sugar to ear infections. Definitely see your general physician if you've been having bouts of dizziness. If they cannot find a simple explanation, then you should schedule an evaluation with a neurologist to see whether Parkinson's disease may be at play.
Parkinson's disease is more common than you might think, and if you are dealing with any of the symptoms above, you may want to consult with a medical professional. The best way to find out about your condition is to schedule an appointment with a neurologist for testing.
For more information about Parkinson's or other neurological conditions that a brain specialist would be able to advise you on, reach out to a local neurology clinic.