Although Parkinson's disease is known for hand tremors, other complex warning signs are often overlooked. This article will explore the early symptoms to be aware of, including integrated treatment approaches that combine medication, technology, and behavioral modifications to help patients and caregivers understand and effectively manage the disease.

3 Warning Signs of Parkinson's Disease to Watch For

When discussing symptoms of Parkinson's disease, "hand tremors" certainly come to mind first because they're the most visibly obvious abnormality. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, our bodies are more complex than we might think, as there are many other observable symptoms beyond hand tremors, including :

• Abnormal movement : Caused by brain abnormalities that control movement, these changes may first be noticed by family members or friends. They result in altered walking patterns such as shuffling feet, shorter steps, and balance problems that may lead to stumbling or falling easily.
• Muscle abnormalities : Patients may notice that their muscles become stiff, making it difficult to relax. This can make everyday tasks, such as getting out of a chair, feel like a struggle and it might transform the simple act of buttoning a shirt into a challenging task. There may be aching sensations in the arms, legs, and torso, resulting in slower and more difficult movement.
• Changes in handwriting : Moving skills, such as writing, will decline in patients, resulting in progressively smaller handwriting (Micrographia) and an inability to control grip on pens, pencils, or other objects as steadily as before the illness.

3 Often Overlooked Warning Signs of Parkinson's Disease

Besides easily visible signs, Parkinson's disease has many other signs that need careful observation, as some may resemble other illnesses. However, if multiple abnormalities occur together frequently, these warning signs may indicate more about Parkinson's disease than you might think.

• Problems with sense of smell : This is one of the earliest signs of the disease. Patients may experience a significant reduction in their sense of smell, or they may perceive distorted smells, such as smelling burning when there is no fire.
• Mood and mental state : Emotional symptoms result directly from abnormalities of neurotransmitters in the brain, especially dopamine, causing patients to experience depression, anxiety, or severe fatigue.

Integrated Parkinson's Disease Treatment for Better Outcomes

There are multiple approaches to treating Parkinson's disease—from medication to advanced technological innovations—aimed at achieving the most effective treatment and optimal patient recovery. The main treatment options include :

Medication Treatment

For medication treatment  of Parkinson's disease patients, there are oral medications that are easy for patients to take, as well as skin patches, which are suitable for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or who need consistent symptom control during daily activities. In addition, injectable medications may be used when the body does not respond to other forms of medication. These work faster but have a shorter duration of effect. Regardless of the form of medication, patients must attend regular appointments with their doctors so physicians can adjust prescriptions appropriately based on symptoms and the patient’s lifestyle. 

Physical Therapy and Exercise

In addition to medication, Parkinson's disease patients who have lost balance and have muscle abnormalities must require "physical therapy" such as walking training, speech therapy, and swallowing therapy. Various forms of exercise also help patients regain a near-normal lifestyle. The rehabilitation process depends on the patient’s physical condition, severity of disease, age, and readiness.

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Treatment

Parkinson's disease treatment using deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery  is an option for patients who are drug-resistant or experience side effects from medication. This method involves surgically implanting small electrodes into the brain regions that control movement, which are then connected to an electrical generator implanted in the chest. The device releases electrical currents to stimulate the brain, helping reduce abnormal symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, or muscle rigidity. One major advantage of DBS is that the level of electrical stimulation can be continuously adjusted to match each patient’s symptoms. This helps improve motor control, reduce reliance on medication, and significantly enhance long-term quality of life.

Robotic Technology for Physical Therapy

Robot Trainer  is an innovative physical therapy designed for patients with Parkinson's disease. This robotic system enhances the effectiveness of walking training, balance exercises, and arm and hand movement therapy. With speed control and weight support, it enables safe and customized training for each patient.

Additionally, integrated computer systems track patient progress, while Virtual Reality (VR) technology motivates patients to actively participate in therapy. Together, these innovations allow patients with Parkinson's disease to recover more effectively and consistently compared to conventional physical therapy.

Moving Forward… Living with Parkinson's: Systematic and Comprehensive Care

When the early warning signs of Parkinson's disease begin to appear, thorough screening enables timely treatment planning. The Pre-Parkinson Screening Program  is suitable for individuals with early symptoms or suspicious abnormalities, while regular brain and cerebrovascular health check-ups help reduce the risk of complications and provide long-term confidence in brain health through the Stroke Screening Program.

At the Brain and Neurology Center, Phyathai 1 International Hospital , patients receive comprehensive care from specialist doctors experienced in treating brain and neurological diseases, supported by advanced technology. We believe that combining medical expertise with innovative diagnostic tools leads to more effective treatment and better outcomes for every patient living with Parkinson's disease.