The first signs of Parkinson’s disease can vary from person to person, but they generally involve some combination of physical, cognitive, and psychological symptoms.
Physical symptoms include tremors, slowed movement, and stiffness or rigidity in the limbs. Tremors are often the first physical sign of Parkinson’s, and typically affect the hands, arms, legs, or jaw. These tremors can be mild and intermittent, but can eventually become more frequent and severe. Other physical symptoms include a decrease in facial expressions, a shuffling gait, and a decrease in fine motor skills.
Cognitive symptoms of Parkinson’s include difficulty with problem-solving, impaired judgment, and memory loss. People with Parkinson’s may also experience difficulty with multitasking and may become easily confused.
Psychological symptoms of Parkinson’s include depression, anxiety, and apathy. People with Parkinson’s may also experience changes in their personality, such as becoming more withdrawn and isolated.
It is important to keep in mind that not everyone with Parkinson’s will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. If you notice any changes in your own physical, cognitive, or psychological health, it is important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s can help to reduce the severity of the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.