Startseite Early Detection of Parkinson’s Disease – Why Prevention Is So Important
Early Detection of Parkinson’s Disease – Why Prevention Is So Important
Dear Patients,
Parkinson’s disease usually develops over many years. Typical motor symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness or slowed movements often appear only when a large proportion of nerve cells in the brain has already been damaged. This makes the early detection of potential risk factors all the more important.
Early signs of Parkinson’s disease
Early signs of Parkinson’s disease
Long before a diagnosis is made, so-called non-motor symptoms may occur, such as:
Impaired sense of smell
Chronic constipation
Sleep disorders, particularly REM sleep behavior disorder
Depressive moods or persistent fatigue
These signs illustrate that Parkinson’s disease does not affect the brain alone, but the entire organism.
The role of the gut–brain axis
Current research suggests that the gut microbiome may play a central role in the development of Parkinson’s disease. Changes in the gut flora and intestinal mucosa can promote inflammatory processes and possibly contribute to the misfolding of proteins that are typical of Parkinson’s disease.
Studies show that the balance of gut bacteria is altered in Parkinson’s disease: Certain health-promoting bacteria are less common, while pro-inflammatory germs are on the rise. These changes could contribute to early detection in the future and also influence the effect of drugs in the body.
Our holistic approach to early detection
At Alpstein Clinic, we combine various diagnostic methods to identify potential risks at an early stage:
- Analysis of the gut microbiome through stool testing
- Assessment of immune status
- Microbiotic analyses of the oral mucosa
- Movement and coordination tests
- Specialized blood tests (including inflammatory markers, trace elements, BDNF, neurofilament light chains)
- Additional genetic analyses and cognitive tests
Prevention before symptoms appear
Studies show that neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s do not develop suddenly, but rather over many years. Even in the early stages, long before typical motor symptoms appear, inflammatory processes, metabolic changes, sleep disorders and immunological abnormalities can be observed.
According to studies, dietary habits, especially high consumption of highly processed foods, are also associated with early signs of Parkinson’s disease. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnostic classification to identify potential risk factors.
Dr. med. Günther Bauer
We look forward to meeting you in person
We would be pleased to advise you personally on our options for early Parkinson’s detection and prevention.