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Parkinson's Signs You Can't Afford to Miss
Imagine waking up one day to find your body betraying you.
Your hands tremble as you try to button your shirt. Your feet shuffle when you want to walk with purpose. Once strong and clear, your voice now barely reaches above a whisper.
This is the reality for those living with Parkinson’s.
But what if I told you there might be warning signs long before the tremors begin? Signs that, if caught early, could lead to better management and slow the progression of this devastating disease?
A groundbreaking new study revealed that cognitive symptoms often emerge surprisingly early in Parkinson’s disease, sometimes within the first few years after diagnosis. This discovery could change how we think about and approach this challenging condition.
Researchers from the University of Rochester analyzed data from over 25,000 Parkinson’s patients who participated in the Fox Insight study.
What they found was eye-opening: about a third of patients reported cognitive symptoms early in the disease course, with a median of just three years since diagnosis.
The study identified several key areas of cognitive change:
- Memory problems were the most commonly reported issue, affecting 13 percent of patients. If you struggle to recall recent events or information more than usual, it might be worth mentioning to your doctor.
- Language difficulties, particularly word-finding problems, were reported by 12 percent of patients. If you’re increasingly finding yourself at a loss for words or struggling to express yourself clearly, don’t brush it off as just a “senior moment.”
- Concentration and attention issues affected nine percent of patients. If you’re having trouble focusing on tasks or your mind seems to wander more than usual, it could be an early sign of Parkinson’s.
Interestingly, these cognitive symptoms often appeared alongside the more well-known motor symptoms. The study found that worse motor activity scores were associated with a higher likelihood of reporting cognitive problems.
But here’s the thing. These cognitive changes weren’t limited to those in the later stages of the disease. In fact, 29 percent of patients reported cognitive symptoms in the very first year after diagnosis. By eight to nine years post-diagnosis, that number had risen to 35 percent.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences these symptoms will develop Parkinson’s. However, being aware of these potential warning signs could lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention, which is crucial for managing the disease effectively.
If you or a loved one experiences any of these cognitive changes, especially if there are also signs of motor difficulties, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
And another thing…
Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…
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A new study finds evidence that our sense of SMELL can send us secret signals about our HEART health. Not listening could be a fatal mistake.
Diet Trick Slashes Multiple Sclerosis Risk
The number of older folks diagnosed with multiple sclerosis is rising. A new study found a simple step to reduce your risk of becoming one.
Nutty Solution CRACKS the Weight Loss Code
Counting calories and feeling famished? Sustainable weight loss might involve pulling out the nutcracker and eating MORE instead of less.
“Down and Dirty” Trick Supercharges Your Microbiome
We used to think staying squeaky clean kept us healthy. However, the opposite is likely true. In fact, getting your hands dirty is GOOD for you.
Mailbag: Don’t Miss These Dementia Red Flags
It’s normal to have some memory slips as we age. But it’s a good idea to look out for THESE dementia red flags—especially if it runs in your family.
Follow Your “Gut Feeling” to Reduce Diabetes Risk
Think your gut health only affects digestion? Think again. New research shows it could be the key to understanding your diabetes risk. Find out how your microbiome might be influencing your health in ways you never imagined.
Do Protein Needs Drop with Age? The SURPRISING Answer
Do you need as much protein now as when you were younger? The answer might surprise you. [Here’s how much you need.]
P.S. Learn more about how to dial down Parkinson’s risk, here.
Source:
Purks JL, et al. “Cognitive symptoms in cross-sectional Parkinson disease cohort evaluated by human-in-the-loop machine learning and natural language processing” Neurology Clinical Practice, 2024. DOI: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000200334.
![Dr. Scott Olson, ND](https://livingwelldaily.com/wp-content/themes/health-child/images/author-images/Dr.ScottOlson,ND.jpg)
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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