When a reader of my blog asked about the early warning signs of Parkinson’s Disease (PD), I was caught off guard. I know what full-blown PD looks like, but I’d forgotten what PD might look like before it may even be diagnosed. With a little research, here's a list of the early signs and symptoms of PD:
Change in facial expression (staring, lack of blinking)
Failure to swing one arm when walking
Flexion (stooped) posture
"Frozen" painful shoulder
Limping or dragging of one leg
Numbness, tingling, achiness or discomfort of the neck or limbs
Softness of the voice
Subjective sensation of internal trembling
A tremor when limb is relaxed (about 25% of patients, however, will not have a tremor)
Symptoms on one side of the body
Loss of sense of smell
Constipation
Depression
Anxiety
Thanks! Very thoughtful & helpful :)
Posted by: Ted | June 20, 2007 at 10:56 AM
This is the most helpful list I've seen in my Googling. My girlfriend is concerned that she may be developing PD based on the early signs, and your list is helping her to have perspective so as to know how seriously to pursue this. Thanks!
Posted by: Weeble | January 30, 2008 at 09:21 AM
I started out with a virus last summer and had consistent nausea for 8 months. Then I got my gallbladder removed in Decemeber and haven't gotten better. I had a UTI right afterwards and then the pain in my lower legs started. It is everyday not matter what and rest doesn't help. I had another UTI right after the first one and went in to have an endoscope of my stomach. I was diagnosed with Gastritis. But the pain in my legs isn't getting any better. My blood work showed I had an untreated Strep infection and the doctor said he didn't rule out Rheumatic Fever. This has been going for 3 months now (the legs). Recently, I got bronchitis and for the past few days nothing has felt right. This morning I got up and feel weak on my right side and have been shaking terribly. I'm going back to the doctor tomorrow to see if it's MS or PD. I'd really like to know if anyone has experienced the same symptoms! I'm a 27 year old who has always been active and it's starting to disrupt my life!
Posted by: Ashley | February 22, 2009 at 08:20 AM
Ashley,
Sorry you are suffering so and at such a young age. Hope your doctors are able to sort it out soon.
Kate
Posted by: Kate Kelsall | February 22, 2009 at 11:54 AM
Recently I was diagnosed with PD. I am absolutely at a loss as what to do next. The information from the Dr. is too slow coming for my comfort. I also have a lot of other issues going (aka life!!). I don't see doom and gloom but am having trouble finding the right next step. Any advice wood be helpful.
Posted by: Thom | January 08, 2011 at 05:15 PM