​THIS common nose symptom could be the first sign of Parkinson's disease

The prevalence of Parkinson's disease has doubled in the past 25 years, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). 8.5 million people were affected by this condition across the globe in 2019. As there is no cure for the condition, early detection plays a crucial role, especially in providing better life quality to the affected. But did you know that a nose symptom, which many ignore could be an early indication of the condition?

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson's disease (PD) neurological disorder that causes problems with movement, mental health, sleep, pain, and other health issues. This condition has no cure and worsens over time. Therapies and medicines can only reduce symptoms.

Parkinson's usually affects older adults however, some young people too get affected by this condition. Though the exact cause of the condition is unclear, it is understood that the loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra, leads to a reduction of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating the movement of the body. This shortage of dopamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Experts think a combination of genetic and environmental factors is responsible for this condition.

The common symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:

• Tremors (involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body)
• Slow movement
• Stiffness and inflexible muscles.

Though people tend to recognize the symptoms that affect physical movement, one often overlooked symptom that appears long before many other signs is - a decreased sense of smell, which is medically known as anosmia.

Parkinson's disease is complex, and there are over 40 symptoms ranging from physical, and psychological symptoms. The symptoms vary from person to person.

However, anosmia often shows up as an early indication. According to NHS, loss of sense of smell (anosmia) sometimes occurs several years before other symptoms develop. Identifying it rather than dismissing is crucial for early detection of the disease.

Primary signs of Parkinson's disease according to NHS are:

These primary symptoms are sometimes referred to by doctors as parkinsonism.

• tremor – the shaking usually begins in the hand or arm and is more likely to occur when the limb is relaxed and resting
• slowness of movement (bradykinesia) – physical movements are much slower than normal, which can make everyday tasks difficult and result in a distinctive slow, shuffling walk with very small steps
• muscle stiffness (rigidity) – stiffness and tension in the muscles, which can make it difficult to move around and make facial expressions, and can result in painful muscle cramps (dystonia)

Other symptoms include a range of other physical and mental symptoms:

• Balance problems, which likely result in falling or injuring themselves.
• Never pain, that can cause unpleasant sensations, such as burning, coldness, or numbness.
• Urinary issues lead to frequent urges to urinate during the night or urinary incontinence (unintentional urination).
• Constipation
• Erectile dysfunction
• Dizziness
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties)
• Drooling
• Insomnia
• Depression and anxiety
• Dementia

(Pic courtesy: iStock)