Tremors are often considered a key warning sign of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects over 166,000 people in the UK.
But experts warn that the first symptoms can be much more insidious and appear years - even decades - before movement problems become apparent.
In fact, a resting tremor is not necessary for diagnosis, and about one in five Parkinson's patients never develop it. New research suggests that the disease, which is on the rise, may give warning signs much earlier than previously thought.
Parkinson's is caused by the gradual loss of nerve cells in an area of the brain that produces dopamine – a substance essential for coordinating movement. As dopamine levels decline, problems such as stiffness, falls and difficulty moving appear, which worsen over time.
Although the disease has no cure, early diagnosis allows for treatments that significantly improve quality of life. Here are four early signs that experts say shouldn't be ignored:
Loss of smell
Up to 95% of people with Parkinson's experience a loss or reduction of smell (anosmia) before diagnosis. Studies show that this sign can appear up to 20 years earlier and is associated with a fivefold higher risk of developing the disease.
Neurology professor Ronald Postuma of McGill University explains that loss of smell often occurs gradually and can go unnoticed. It can affect appetite, weight, mood, and safety (e.g., the inability to smell burning).
"Acting" of dreams
Talking, hitting, or getting up in bed during sleep can be early signs. Normally, during the REM phase of sleep the body is almost paralyzed, but in people with REM sleep behavior disorder this paralysis is lost and dreams are "lived."
Studies show that 50–70% of these people develop Parkinson's or a similar disease within 5–10 years. In people over 50, the risk is many times higher compared to those without the disorder.
Persistent constipation
Although constipation is common, it affects about two-thirds of people with Parkinson's and can appear very early on. The disease is believed to affect the nerves in the digestive tract and the muscles of the intestines, slowing their movement.
A large analysis of studies has shown that people with constipation have about a twofold higher risk of developing Parkinson's. According to Prof. Postuma, even constipation in young adulthood may be associated with increased risk decades later.
Dizziness when standing up
Recurrent dizziness upon standing may be related to orthostatic hypotension – a drop in blood pressure. When this problem is neurological in origin and not explained by dehydration, medications or heart problems, about half of patients may develop Parkinson's or a similar disease.
Although this sign is less studied than others, research shows that up to 23% of people with unexplained orthostatic hypotension receive such a diagnosis within 10 years.
Not everyone who experiences these symptoms will develop Parkinson's. However, experts emphasize that recognizing the early signs and consulting a doctor can lead to a faster diagnosis and more effective treatment. /GazetaExpress/
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