Parkinson’s disease and Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) are neurological disorders that often elude early detection due to their silent and subtle nature. These conditions manifest in ways that may not always be immediately apparent, making it crucial to recognize the lesser-known symptoms. Diagnosing these conditions early on can help with on-time intervention. Here are the early silent signs of Parkinson’s and TD that one should learn about to ensure correct diagnosis and improved management.

Loss of sense of smell
Anosmia, the loss of the sense of smell, can be an early sign of both Parkinson’s and TD. A diminishing ability to detect odors or a sudden loss of the sense of smell often occurs years before other visible symptoms surface. This phenomenon is attributed to the degeneration of nerve cells in the olfactory bulb, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this silent symptom.

Compromised motor skills
Both TD and Parkinson’s disease involve a rapid decline in motor skills required for various daily activities, including writing and the ability to hold a pen steadily. Handwriting is severely affected in both cases, as patients with TD and Parkinson’s are unable to hold their grip over objects.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Characterized by an uncontrollable feeling to move the legs, RLS is a shared silent symptom of Parkinson’s and TD. Individuals with these conditions may experience discomfort and a constant need to shift their legs, particularly when at rest. While RLS can have various causes, its association with these disorders necessitates a closer examination when observed.

Poor posture
Patients with TD as well as Parkinson’s face postural issues. A stooped or hunched posture is a subtle physical change observed in patients with Parkinson’s disease. On the other hand, those with TD may experience atypical twisting postures or body movements.

Problems associated with blinking
Although patients with both conditions face problems with blinking, these issues are distinct in Parkinson’s and TD. Patients with Parkinson’s may experience decreased blinking due to hormonal imbalance in their bodies. In contrast, people with TD experience rapid blinking and other such involuntary body movements.

Parkinson’s and TD are complex neurological disorders that show silent symptoms that are often overlooked. All subtle yet significant signs mentioned above require medical attention. Recognizing these less obvious indicators is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate care.