Surprising Parkinson’s Symptoms That Appear Years Before Tremors

When Michael J. Foxfirst developed a tremor in his pinky finger at age 29, he was shocked to learn that he had early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). Since then, he’s managed an award-winning career, family life, and the creation of his foundation. This neurological disease affects more than 11 million people in the U.S., according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

But for some, the telling tremors are not the first symptom of Parkinson’s disease and may go on for years, seemingly random.

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is the most common sexual issue for men with PD. If you also experience depression, some antidepressants can decrease sex drive, although medications like Viagra and Cialis are widely available. Scientists are also researching a new ED medication that targets the nervous system, although it is not yet FDA-approved. Certain exercises and strengthening your pelvic floor can also offset ED.

Acting Out Dreams

When sleeping, most people have temporary paralysis during the part of sleep when they have the most vivid dreams. This is called rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. An early symptom of Parkinson’s is sleep dysfunction, according to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Instead of slumbering peacefully, you may start physically acting out your dreams, sitting up, or talking to yourself or your sleep partner.

Losing Your Sense of Smell

It’s not clear how the sense of smell and Parkinson’s are related, but some scientists theorize PD originates in the part of the brain responsible that controls that sense. Approximately 75 percent to 90 percent of people with PD report a diminished sense of smell.

“We set out to understand the nature of a symptom that’s associated with Parkinson’s disease that’s been largely anecdotal. People that are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease would report loss of smell up to 10 years before their diagnosis. These findings could help in developing a very early diagnostic tool for the disease,” said Charles Greer, PhD, vice chair of research at the department of neurosurgery and professor of neuroscience at the Yale School of Medicine, in a news release.

Dizziness When Standing Up

Low blood pressure or a decrease in blood pressure when standing from a seated position can cause you to feel lightheaded or dizzy. Dizziness could be caused by other factors, such as dehydration and certain medications, like antidepressants. If you have a blood pressure cuff at home, you can measure your blood pressure while lying down, and compare it to sitting and standing.

To better understand symptoms and treatments for PD, visit the Michael J. Fox Foundation website.