Parkinson's disease is a neurological condition that currently has no cure, and is the fasting growing disease of its kind worldwide.
Charity Parkinson's UK have said that two people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease every hour, reports the Mirror. Approximately 145,000 people in the UK are believed to be living with the disease, with symptoms often starting mild before developing into more serious signs.
The disorder, that affects the brain, causes uncontrollable movements, like stiffness, shaking, little to no coordination or difficulty balancing.
There are various signs that point to Parkinson's disease, and virtually anyone could be at risk of developing the condition.
However, some research has suggested that Parkinson's affects men more than it does women.
The way in which a person walks around could be an early sign in their risk to developing Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease symptoms
Muscle stiffness is a major sign that someone may have Parkinson's disease.
The sign, also known as rigidity, includes tension and stiffness in the muscles, which can make it difficult for the person to move and make facial expressions. The symptom can also result in painful muscle cramps.
It is not only spotted in the person's face, but in their legs - affecting how they walk.
A change in movement such as stiff muscles, rigidity and slowness make it harder to take normal steps, with experts warning that a short, shuffling walk can be a common sign of Parkinson's disease.
Other signs in a person's walk includes freezing, which is like having your feet stuck to the floor - and could indicate advanced Parkinson’s.
Swelling is also a common sign as well as swelling, which could be down to a build-up of fluid and not getting enough exercise. The worse the swelling gets, the more it could be a sign of the condition.
People describe the feeling as having heavy feet and experience difficulty in lifting them, according to Parkinson’s UK.
There may also be difficulty in putting shoes on by themselves, and the footwear feeling tighter than user.
The National Institute of Aging said: "The symptoms of Parkinson’s and the rate of progression differ among individuals.
"Early symptoms of this disease are subtle and occur gradually.
"People with Parkinson's disease often develop a parkinsonian gait that includes a tendency to lean forward; take small, quick steps; and reduce swinging their arms. They also may have trouble initiating or continuing movement."
Symptoms found on the body are described to often beginning on one side only.
Listed below are more important signs that could indicate Parkinson's disease:
- Tremor in hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head
- Slowness of movement
- Impaired balance and coordination, sometimes leading to falls
- Depression and other emotional changes
- Difficulty swallowing, chewing, and speaking
- Urinary problems or constipation
- Skin problems
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