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Understanding Parkinson's disease: how to spot the signs early

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance, and coordination.

Although the exact cause remains unclear, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Let’s look at how to recognise the signs of Parkinson’s disease, the common symptoms associated with it, and what steps you can take if you suspect you may have the condition.

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Female nurse holding her senior patient's hand

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease occurs when cells in the brain that produce dopamine begin to die.

Dopamine is a chemical messenger essential for controlling the smooth, coordinated movements of the body.

As dopamine levels decrease, individuals experience symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slower movements.

Parkinson’s is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts for life, and it worsens over time.

However, with proper care and management, individuals can continue to live fulfilling and independent lives.

Parkinson's disease is a complex condition that impacts not only movement but also other systems of the body, including mood and cognition.

While the exact cause is still under research, environmental factors, genetics, and ageing are all believed to contribute to its development.

Parkinson’s disease symptoms

Recognising Parkinson’s disease symptoms early is critical for seeking timely medical intervention.

Symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but here are some common signs to look out for:

Motor symptoms (movement-related):

Tremors

One of the most common early signs, tremors typically begin in one hand and are most noticeable when at rest.

These tremors are often rhythmic and can spread to other areas like the legs or chin.

Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)

As the disease progresses, movements may become slower, making everyday tasks like walking, dressing, or eating more time-consuming and difficult.

Bradykinesia can also cause the face to become less expressive, resulting in what is called a 'masked' face.

Rigidity

Muscle stiffness can make movements feel stiff or jerky, and can cause discomfort or pain.

Stiffness may affect the arms, legs, and torso.

Postural instability

Problems with balance and coordination, which may lead to frequent falls.

Individuals may have difficulty standing upright, and walking may be accompanied by a shuffling gait.

Non-motor symptoms (other effects):

Sleep problems

People living with Parkinson’s often experience sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or restless leg syndrome.

Sleep problems may be exacerbated by medication or the condition itself.

Cognitive changes

Memory issues, slowed thinking, or difficulty focusing are common as the disease progresses.

In some cases, cognitive decline can lead to Parkinson’s disease dementia.

Mood disorders

Depression and anxiety frequently accompany Parkinson’s, often due to the impact of the disease on daily life.

People living with Parkinson’s may feel isolated, frustrated, or overwhelmed.

Autonomic dysfunction

Issues with automatic body functions, like bladder control or blood pressure regulation, can arise.

For instance, people may experience low blood pressure upon standing or difficulties with bowel movements.

Speech and swallowing problems

Speech may become softer or more difficult to understand, and swallowing can become challenging due to muscle weakness.

While these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, if you notice several of them together, it’s a good idea to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Early diagnosis can help individuals get the treatment they need to manage the condition effectively.

Close-up of hands senior woman trying to hold a glass of water

Early signs of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease symptoms often begin subtly and can be mistaken for normal signs of ageing.

Early signs may include:

  • A slight tremor in the hand or finger when at rest.
  • Slightly slurred speech or changes in the tone of voice, often becoming softer.
  • A small or shuffled walk, where steps may become smaller, posture may seem stooped, and arm swing may be reduced.
  • Changes in handwriting, such as smaller, cramped writing (a condition known as micrographia).

In the early stages of Parkinson’s, symptoms are often mild and might not be noticeable to others.

As symptoms worsen, the challenges faced by individuals living with Parkinson’s can become more apparent.

Paying attention to any changes in movement, mood, or speech is essential, as these can be early indicators of Parkinson’s.

The social model of disability and Parkinson’s disease

At APM, we align with the social model of disability, which focuses on removing societal barriers rather than viewing the individual as limited by their condition.

For those living with Parkinson’s disease, barriers might include lack of accessibility in the workplace, societal misunderstandings about the disease, and inadequate community support.

By fostering supportive environments and raising awareness, we can empower individuals living with Parkinson’s to lead fulfilling lives and maintain their independence.

Diagnosing Parkinson’s disease

If you suspect you may have Parkinson’s disease, seeking an early diagnosis is essential.

Parkinson’s disease diagnosis typically involves the following steps:

  • Medical history: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and any family history of neurological conditions.
  • Neurological examination: This involves evaluating your motor skills, including your posture, balance, and movement.
  • Brain imaging: While no single test confirms Parkinson’s, your doctor may order an MRI or CT scan to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
  • Response to medication: Parkinson’s is often diagnosed based on how well a person responds to medications like Levodopa, which increases dopamine in the brain. If your symptoms improve with the medication, it supports the diagnosis.

A timely diagnosis allows for a plan to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Despondent woman lying on bed at home

What to do if you suspect Parkinson’s disease

If you notice symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, it’s important to take proactive steps:

  • Consult a healthcare professional: Make an appointment with your doctor or a neurologist to discuss your symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
  • Prepare for testing: Your doctor may ask you to undergo tests or refer you to a specialist who can assess your symptoms more thoroughly.
  • Learn about Parkinson’s disease: Understanding the condition and how it affects you will help you make informed decisions about your care. There are various resources available, including Parkinson’s-specific support groups and medical websites.
  • Look into treatment options: Medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Your healthcare team can help you create a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Managing Parkinson’s disease

While Parkinson’s disease has no cure, symptoms can be effectively managed through various treatments and strategies.

Some of these include:

  • Medications: Levodopa is commonly prescribed to replenish dopamine levels in the brain. Other medications may be used to control symptoms such as tremors or rigidity.
  • Physical therapy: Regular exercise can help improve movement, balance, and overall mobility. People living with Parkinson’s often benefit from physical therapy tailored to their needs.
  • Speech therapy: If you experience changes in speech or difficulty swallowing, speech therapy can be very helpful.
  • Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists can assist with adaptive strategies to make daily tasks easier and more manageable.
  • Lifestyle changes: A healthy diet, sufficient rest, and stress reduction techniques can all play a role in improving quality of life.

For individuals living with Parkinson’s who are navigating the workplace, discover how workplace accommodations can make a difference.

How APM can help

APM is a national provider of Disability Employment Services across Australia.

We offer tailored support to help individuals with disability, injury, or a health condition, including Parkinson’s disease, succeed in finding and maintaining meaningful employment.

Our services include:

  • Assisting with job searches that match individual strengths and needs.
  • Supporting workplace accommodations such as flexible hours or assistive technologies.
  • Ongoing support to ensure long-term success in employment.

If you’re living with Parkinson’s or supporting someone who is, contact APM today to learn how we can help create pathways to success.

Moving forward with Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition, but with timely diagnosis, effective management, and the right support systems, individuals can continue to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Understanding the signs of Parkinson’s disease is the first step toward getting the help you need and living well with the condition.

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Resources and further reading

For more information and support, consider the following resources:

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au