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Parkinson’s disease may manifest through subtle symptoms such as loss of smell years before its more recognizable motor signs emerge, said neurologist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Demet Aygun Ustel.
In a statement released by Biruni University Faculty of Medicine Hospital, Ustel emphasized that Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder and that early recognition of its non-motor symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
She explained that while the disease is widely associated with tremors and slowed movements, these symptoms typically appear after significant damage has occurred to dopamine-producing brain cells.
Prior to this stage, patients may experience early warning signs, including a diminished or complete loss of the sense of smell.
“Loss of smell can occur years before the onset of motor symptoms,” Ustel noted, adding that this early indicator is often overlooked. However, she cautioned that olfactory impairment alone should not be considered definitive evidence of Parkinson’s disease, as it may arise from various other conditions. Persistent and unexplained cases, she said, warrant careful medical evaluation.
Ustel also highlighted that Parkinson’s is not limited to tremor-related symptoms. Other clinical features include bradykinesia (slowness of movement), muscle rigidity, reduced step length while walking, and balance disturbances. Additionally, non-motor symptoms such as sleep disorders, constipation, and mood changes may appear in the early stages of the disease.
Underscoring the importance of early intervention, Ustel stated that prompt diagnosis can significantly improve disease management. “With regular follow-up and appropriate treatment, it is possible to preserve patients’ quality of life for many years,” she said.
She advised individuals experiencing prolonged and unexplained loss of smell to seek consultation with a neurology specialist, noting that early assessment plays a key role in slowing disease progression.
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