UK researchers have identified two early warning signs of Parkinson's disease: hearing loss and epilepsy. Over a million health records were analyzed.
Roughly 145,000 people in the UK have Parkinson's, which causes tremors, stiffness, and slow movement. There isn't a cure, but there are treatments that help manage symptoms.
Why it matters
If earlier signs of Parkinson's are confirmed by future research, then it can be diagnosed sooner, improving patients' lives.
Understanding the early signs of Parkinson's disease could change the diagnosis and treatment of the condition, improving patients' lives.
By the numbers
- People with hearing loss had a 66% higher risk of Parkinson's.
- 2.5% of those who developed Parkinson's had hearing loss ten years prior, versus 1.5% in the control group.
- Epilepsy accounted for a 2.5 times higher risk.
- 2.6% of Parkinson's patients had epilepsy, compared to 1.1% in the control group.
A closer look
- Researchers hypothesize that hearing loss signals declining brain function, a Parkinson's characteristic.
- The epilepsy link needs clarification because some anti-epileptic drugs have been linked to a higher Parkinson's risk.
The takeaway
Recognizing hearing loss and epilepsy as potential Parkinson's indicators can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment. This research highlights the importance of regular hearing screenings for adults and knowing the other risk factors for Parkinson's.
