13 May 2024 , 13:34
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Parkinson's disease is often associated with symptoms such as tremors, stiffness and slowed movements.
However, experts at Usay Compare, a comparison service for health insurance, life insurance and income protection, have highlighted some lesser-known early signs of the condition that are 'paramount' to spot. Changes in speech patterns, including a softer voice, slurred speech or hesitancy in articulation, can be an early indicator of Parkinson's. These signs, known collectively as dysarthria, may develop gradually and be mistakenly attributed to age-related changes.
But they're important indicators of potential underlying neurological dysfunction with Parkinson's affecting millions worldwide. Loss of smell, or anosmia, is another common early sign of Parkinson's disease. Research suggests that anosmia can precede motor symptoms by several years, making it a valuable marker for early detection.
Despite its significance, anosmia is often overlooked or dismissed as a benign issue, delaying the diagnosis of Parkinson's in many cases, reports Bristol Live. Sleep disturbances are also a lesser-known symptom of Parkinson's Parkinson's disease is notorious for wreaking havoc on sleep patterns, causing issues like insomnia, restless legs syndrome, or the particularly concerning REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD). RBD makes people act out intense, often violent dreams and is a red flag for an increased Parkinson's risk.
These sleep disturbances can take a toll on someone's life and might appear well before any motor symptoms show up. When it comes to cognitive abilities, Parkinson's patients often face significant challenges. Memory lapses, concentration issues, and problems with executive functions are common, yet these cognitive symptoms tend to be overshadowed by the more visible motor symptoms, despite their profound impact on daily life.
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A spokesperson for Usay Compare emphasised the critical nature of spotting these early signs, saying: "Identifying these subtle symptoms is paramount for facilitating early intervention and effective disease management. An early diagnosis allows for targeted therapies, lifestyle modification implementation, and access to support services tailored to individual needs.
"Moreover, early intervention has been shown to slow disease progression and improve overall outcomes, underscoring the critical role of timely diagnosis in Parkinson's care. Raising awareness of these subtler signs of Parkinson's and promoting vigilance in symptom recognition is essential for facilitating early diagnosis, optimising treatment outcomes, and enhancing overall care and support for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.
"If you're worried about how poor health could affect your livelihood, getting private medical insurance (PMI) can help. Being covered by PMI ensures you'll get access to the very best treatment as soon as possible."