Early signs of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is often associated with hand tremors, but these typically appear years after the condition has already begun. Early symptoms can include constipation, frequent urination, and a reduced sense of smell.

Neurologist highlights overlooked symptoms

Neurologist Alexandra Pérez-Soriano, from the Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, explains that Parkinson's is established long before tremors, through issues in the digestive system, urinary function, and sleep. These early signs are often overlooked.

Abdominal symptoms appear first

Many patients experience constipation years before any motor symptoms. This is often accompanied by frequent urination, especially at night, and a loss of smell that can precede a diagnosis by five to ten years.

Sleep disturbances as a key indicator

A significant early sign is disrupted sleep, where individuals may act out their dreams, scream, or fall out of bed. This is due to a lack of muscle paralysis during REM sleep, a symptom often overlooked.

Origin of the disease in the body

According to research, the disease begins in the neurons of the digestive tract and the olfactory bulb, where a misfolded protein called alpha-synuclein accumulates. This protein then progresses to the brainstem via the vagus nerve.

Progression to brain affects movement

The disease only becomes evident when the degeneration reaches the substantia nigra, a brain region that produces dopamine. By this stage, a significant number of dopamine-producing neurons have already been lost.

Early detection offers hope

Identifying early symptoms, such as sleep disturbances, could allow for earlier intervention. Up to 90% of those with these sleep issues may develop Parkinson's or a related disorder within ten to fifteen years.

Research focuses on early intervention

Currently, no treatment can stop Parkinson's once tremors appear. Researchers are now focusing on early detection through symptoms like changes in smell, sleep, and digestion, aiming to develop therapies that can act before neurons are irreversibly damaged.