Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease Everyone Should Know

By The Parkinson’s Project Foundation

When most people think of Parkinson’s disease, they picture older adults with a tremor. But in many cases—especially with Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD)—the earliest signs show up years before diagnosis and can affect people in their 30s, 40s, or even younger.

At The Parkinson’s Project Foundation, we exist to empower individuals with knowledge, access, and advocacy. Because when it comes to Parkinson’s, early recognition can change everything—from how you pursue care to the quality of life you can preserve.

Here are some of the most common early signs of Parkinson’s disease. One symptom on its own doesn’t mean you have Parkinson’s—but if you notice a pattern, especially more than one symptom, it’s worth having a conversation with a movement disorder specialist.

• Slowness of Movement (Bradykinesia)

Daily tasks may take longer and feel more effortful—like walking, brushing your teeth, or buttoning a shirt. Movements might seem slower, smaller, or less automatic. This slowness tends to come on gradually and is a core motor feature of Parkinson’s.

• Muscle Stiffness or Rigidity

A persistent tightness or stiffness—especially on one side of the body—can be an early red flag. It may make it harder to walk, stretch, or even turn in bed. This symptom often goes unnoticed until it starts to interfere with mobility.

• Fatigue

This isn’t regular tiredness. Parkinson’s-related fatigue is often described as deep, draining, and unrelieved by rest. It may show up early and be mistaken for stress, aging, or even depression.

• Pain and Sensory Discomfort

Though still under-recognized by many medical professionals, pain is a common early symptom—especially in Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease. This may include unexplained muscle aches, joint pain, nerve sensitivity, or burning sensations. It often starts on one side of the body and doesn’t follow a clear pattern or injury. For many, this pain is real and persistent—rooted not in imagination but in neurological changes caused by Parkinson’s.

• Loss of Smell (Hyposmia)

A decreased ability to smell—especially things like coffee, perfume, or food—is one of the earliest and most underrecognized signs. It can happen years before any motor symptoms appear.

• Changes in Handwriting (Micrographia)

Handwriting may become smaller, tighter, or more crowded. Many people only notice it when comparing older writing samples or when others point it out. It’s a subtle neurological sign that’s often overlooked.

• Reduced Arm Swing While Walking

A decreased swing in one arm may be one of the first visible motor signs. It can give the appearance of a limp or imbalance. Often, others notice it before the person experiencing it does.

• Facial Masking (Hypomimia)

Reduced facial expression is common in early Parkinson’s. A person may appear flat, serious, or disconnected even when they’re feeling fine. This symptom can create misunderstanding in social or emotional interactions.

• Soft or Monotone Voice

Speech may become softer, more monotone, or lack inflection. Sometimes, others will notice this change before the person does. Over time, speech may become slurred or harder to project.

• Sleep Disturbances

Problems with sleep—including trouble falling asleep, restless legs, vivid dreams, or acting out dreams during REM sleep (REM Sleep Behavior Disorder)—can appear years before a diagnosis.

• Digestive Changes, Including Constipation

Constipation is a very common early symptom. Parkinson’s can affect the nerves in the gut, slowing down digestion. Unexplained constipation or bloating shouldn’t be ignored—especially when combined with other signs.

• Mood Changes: Anxiety and Depression

Mood symptoms often appear before motor symptoms. These are not just emotional responses to stress—they may result from changes in brain chemistry and early dopamine depletion. Anxiety, depression, and even apathy are common early signs.

Why Early Detection Matters

For those under 50, early signs are often dismissed as stress, aging, or psychological. Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD) is still widely misunderstood—even by medical professionals.

At The Parkinson’s Project Foundation, we’re here to change that narrative. Our mission is to advocate, educate, and support individuals and families on a journey that too often begins in silence and isolation.

You don’t have to wait for a diagnosis to seek help.

What You Can Do

• Look for patterns. A single symptom may not mean much—but a pattern over time can be a signal.

• Track your symptoms. Keeping a journal of physical and emotional changes can help during medical evaluations.

• Trust yourself. If you feel something is wrong, don’t let it be dismissed.

• See a specialist. Ask for a referral to a movement disorder neurologist—they're the most qualified to evaluate early Parkinson’s.

A Note on the List Above

This list reflects a combination of clinically recognized signs and patient-reported early experiences, especially in cases of Young-Onset Parkinson’s Disease. As research evolves, we continue to listen to the voices of those living it—because your lived experience matters, even if it doesn’t fit in a textbook.

Join Us in Shaking Up the Conversation

Knowledge is power. Whether you’re noticing early symptoms or supporting someone who is, know this: you’re not alone, and there are options.

We’re here to challenge the outdated understanding of Parkinson’s and open the door to earlier recognition, better care, and alternative healing paths—including plant-based and integrative therapies.

Together, we can change the way Parkinson’s is recognized, treated, and lived with.