Two Parkinson’s warning signs that can appear ‘up to five years’ before diagnosis

Two early signs of Parkinson’s disease have been identified in a recent study, suggesting that symptoms may manifest years before an official diagnosis is made. Published in JAMA Neurology in 2022, the research delved into the condition by examining medical records from over one million East London residents from 1990 to 2018. The study, conducted by Queen Mary University of London, aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the neurodegenerative disorder. It found that ethnicity and socio-economic status did not impact the likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease.

One of the early signs identified in the study is hearing loss, which could potentially appear up to five years before a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The research also highlighted a link between epilepsy and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s later in life. The study suggested that primary care practitioners should be aware of these early symptoms to facilitate timely diagnoses for patients.

Furthermore, the study revealed new patterns related to well-known Parkinson’s symptoms. Tremors, a common sign of the disease, were found to occur as early as ten years before diagnosis, becoming more frequent in the two years leading up to diagnosis. Memory issues, another commonly reported non-motor symptom, were shown to emerge up to five years before an official diagnosis. Additionally, links were identified between Parkinson’s and conditions such as low blood pressure, high blood pressure, and type two diabetes, as well as pre-diagnostic signs like constipation, depression, and erectile dysfunction.

The research also indicated a potential connection between hearing loss and Parkinson’s disease, suggesting that sensory impairments could play a role in the development of the condition. Experts called for further analysis to explore this relationship and its implications. It is vital for healthcare professionals to recognise these early signs to ensure prompt diagnosis and intervention for individuals at risk of Parkinson’s disease.

In summary, early detection of Parkinson’s disease is crucial for effective management and treatment. By identifying and understanding early warning signs such as hearing loss and epilepsy, healthcare practitioners can provide timely support to individuals at risk. Further research into these indicators and their relationship to Parkinson’s development is necessary to improve diagnostic strategies and care for patients.