<\/span><\/h2>\nParkinson\u2019s disease<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0is a progressive movement disorder that worsens over time. It happens when brain cells that make dopamine slowly stop working. Dopamine is a chemical messenger responsible for smooth and coordinated body movements. As dopamine levels decline, movement becomes slower, less controlled, and more difficult.<\/p>\nAlthough there is currently no cure, early diagnosis and comprehensive management can help control symptoms and maintain independence for many years.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Parkinsonism Definition<\/b><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nThe Parkinsonism definition<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0refers to a group of neurological conditions that produce symptoms like Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movements, and balance problems. Parkinson’s disease is the most common form of parkinsonism, but similar symptoms may also occur due to medications, strokes, or other neurological disorders.<\/p>\n<\/span>Early Warning Signs of Parkinson’s Disease<\/b><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n1. Tremors at Rest<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nOne of the earliest and most recognisable symptoms is a slight shaking of the hands, fingers, chin, or legs when the body is at rest. The tremor often starts on one side before gradually affecting both sides.<\/p>\n
2. Slowed Movement (Bradykinesia)<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nSimple everyday activities such as buttoning clothes, writing, walking, or getting out of a chair may become noticeably slower. This reduced speed of movement often develops gradually.<\/p>\n
3. Muscle Stiffness<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nPersistent stiffness in the arms, legs, neck, or shoulders can make movement painful and restrict flexibility. Many individuals initially attribute this symptom to arthritis or ageing.<\/p>\n
4. Changes in Walking Pattern<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nPeople may begin taking shorter steps, shuffling while walking, or find it difficult to swing one arm naturally. Some may experience episodes where their feet seem “stuck” to the floor.<\/p>\n
5. Balance and Posture Problems<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nAs the disease progresses, maintaining balance becomes increasingly difficult. A stooped posture or frequent unexplained falls may occur.<\/p>\n
6. Smaller Handwriting<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nA noticeable reduction in handwriting size, known as micrographic, is an early sign observed in many patients.<\/p>\n
7. Reduced Facial Expression<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nThe face may appear less expressive or develop a “masked” appearance due to reduced muscle movement.<\/p>\n
8. Softer Voice<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nSpeech may gradually become quieter, monotone, or slurred, making communication more challenging.<\/p>\n
9. Sleep Disturbances<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nPeople may experience restless sleep, vivid dreams, excessive movement during sleep, or daytime drowsiness long before movement symptoms become obvious.<\/p>\n
10. Loss of Sense of Smell<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\nDifficulty identifying familiar smells such as coffee, flowers, or spices can be an early indicator that often appears years before motor symptoms develop.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Parkinson’s Motor Symptoms<\/b><\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nThe four primary Parkinson\u2019s motor symptoms<\/b><\/strong>\u00a0include:<\/p>\n