Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder which causes loss of cells in the parts of the brain that control movement. 11 April is observed as World Parkinson's Day to create awareness about the disease. Dr. James Parkinson was the first person who described the disease, therefore, his birthday is marked as World Parkinson's Day. The disease is caused due to the low presence of dopamine which is a substance that is responsible for sending signals from one neuron to another.
Usually, people ignore shivering of hands and legs and consider it as a symptom of internal weakness but it can be an early symptom of Parkinson's disease. This disease usually affects people above 50 years of age. But in the last decade, the disease has affected the youth as well. The main reason behind the rising number of cases in youth is stress, smoking habits and alcohol consumption.
Early signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Tremor
It is one of the earliest signs of Parkinson's disease. It can be easily noticed when a person is at rest. A person can experience shaking of fingers, hands or legs. Shaking can worsen with the progress of the disease. After some time it can become easily noticed by others as well. However, if you are shaking after a strenuous workout or taking a medicine, then it is normal.
Change in handwriting
It may sound unusual but a change in handwriting is also another early of Parkinson's disease. You may notice a change in the size of your handwriting. After the movement, Parkinson's disease starts to affect different skills of a person like handwriting. Usually, a person starts to write small letters than usual if he or she is suffering from the disease.
Slow movement
Parkinson's disease makes your movement slow and you find it difficult initiating movement. You will also notice a lack of coordination while doing daily activities. It is caused due to the impairment of the neurons that are responsible for movement.
Also read: Coffee Can Help Tame Parkinson’s Symptoms
Postural instability
Balance impairment is also a symptom of Parkinson's disease. The patient may experience a tendency to fall often and the inability to protect oneself from falling. the changes will start slowly and later they will worsen depending upon the severity of the disease.
Change in voice
Your voice also gets affected by Parkinson's disease. It is also one of the earliest sign of Parkinson's disease. If you watch carefully you will see changes in your voice.
Other Symptoms
- Loss of Smell
- Unexplained constipation
- Excessive Sweating
- Depression and anxiety
- Burning, Numbness or coldness in the nerves
- You might get up frequently at night to urinate and face other problems with urination
- Dizziness or blurred vision
- Male erectile dysfunction
- Skin problems
- Excessive salivation and difficulty in swallowing
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