10 Early Signs of Parkinson's

By christine

Reviewed: dr. vanta

Article Sources

Article Sources

• 1. '10 Early Signs of Parkinson's Disease.' Parkinson's Foundation, [www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/10-early-warning-signs.](http://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/10-early-warning-signs.)
• 2. '23 Parkinson's Symptoms to Look For.' APDA, 29 June 2020, www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/symptoms/

Medical Expert

More About Us

Parkinson's is a neurodegenerative disorder that develops slowly over several years. The progressive disease affects dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra area of the brain. Medical professionals don't know the exact cause of Parkinson's disease, and there's no cure to date for the severe condition.

However, the slow progression of the disorder allows individuals and physicians to identify the early signs of Parkinson's and make an initial diagnosis. The symptoms of early Parkinson's disease include movement problems, tremors, balance, constipation and certain changes affecting smell, handwriting, facial expressions and vocals.¹‘10 Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease.’ Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/10-early-warning-signs.

Slow Moving

Common early signs of Parkinson's disease involve problems with everyday movements. These may be subtle at first, such as developing an irregular pace, where a person walks at normal pace then slows down and speeds up again unintentionally. Additionally, individuals with Parkinson's may change the length of their stride at the same time.

Another symptom that may occur while walking is difficulty swinging one or both arms with each step. These signs show issues with natural movements. As the condition progresses, patients may experience freezing, where their body doesn't respond to the need to take the next step.²‘23 Parkinson’s Symptoms to Look For.’ APDA, 29 June 2020, www.apdaparkinson.org/what-is-parkinsons/symptoms/