Have you noticed a friend or loved one with mild tremors or a lack of facial expressions? They may be experiencing the early signs of Parkinson’s disease. Family members and friends are often the first to notice these changes in the early stages of the disease.

Parkinson’s is a brain disease that causes uncontrollable movements and mental and behavioral changes. The symptoms of Parkinson’s aren’t always the same in each person, but there are signs you might notice.

Spot the signs

Symptoms associated with movement may be the easiest to notice. Symptoms might include:

• Muscle stiffness.
• Slowness.
• Involuntary shaking, also known as tremors.

Slowness is always present. You may notice slower walking, less arm swinging while walking, and decreased blinking or facial expressions.

Symptoms may begin on one side of the body. As the disease progresses, it may eventually affect both sides.

People with Parkinson’s can also experience symptoms that cannot be seen from the outside. It affects the automatic functions of the body, leading to symptoms such as:

• Difficulty with bowel movements.
• Low blood pressure.
• Frequent urination or involuntary loss of urine.

Mood and thinking can also be affected, causing:

• Lack of motivation or interest in activities.
• Memory or thinking problems that may or may not interfere with daily activities.
• Depression and anxiety.
• Seeing things that are not there or having false beliefs.

Other physical changes that might occur are:

• Drooling.
• Feeling exhausted or sleepy during the day.
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
• Loss of smell.
• Slurred speech or mumbling.
• Choking, coughing or clearing the throat when eating or drinking.
• Mild to moderate weight loss.

The progression of Parkinson’s can be slow, but it can interfere with daily activities. If you notice a friend or loved one with these symptoms, encourage them to speak to their primary care provider. Although there is no cure, medicine and therapies may help relieve some of the symptoms.

Sources: National Institute on Aging; The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research