Young Onset Parkinson’s: Understanding Parkinson’s symptoms & what can help

A diagnosis of young onset Parkinson’s raises questions about what symptoms you might chalk up to your condition and what to do next. This guide explains motor and non-motor symptoms in plain language. Use it to understand what symptoms you may notice but may think they are unrelated to Parkinson’s. Then we take you briefly through what supports can help. Everyone with Parkinson’s is different, experiencing a different suite or constellation of symptoms as well as different progression or symptom severity. This all depends on the lifestyle changes you make, the medications, hydration, diet and stress interacting

Motor symptoms (movement-related)

Motor symptoms affect how you move.

Tremor

Involuntary shaking, often at rest, starting in one hand at rest. Only occurs in around 70% of people living with Parkinson’s, others may have an action tremor or no tremor at all.

What can help

  • Medications: levodopa; dopamine agonists
  • Occupational therapy for daily tasks
  • Stress management strategies
  • Assistive technology to help do your daily tasks
  • Adaptive clothing to help you dress more easily

Slowness (bradykinesia)

Movements become slower, like you are moving through molasses. Tasks take longer.

What can help

  • Medications: levodopa; MAO-B inhibitors
  • Physiotherapy focused on movement speed and cueing
  • Exercise programs (walking, cycling, strength training)

Stiffness (rigidity)

Muscles feel tight. Movement may feel restricted.

What can help

  • Medications: levodopa
  • Physiotherapy and stretching programs
  • Heat therapy for muscle relief
  • Massage

Balance & coordination changes

You may feel unsteady or at risk of falls.

What can help

Speech, swallowing & voice changes

Softer voice, reduced clarity, or monotone speech.

What can help

Non-motor symptoms

These symptoms do not involve movement, but automatic processes and mood. They are common in Parkinson’s and often overlooked.

Fatigue

Persistent tiredness not relieved by rest.

What can help

Sleep difficulties

Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or acting out dreams.

What can help

Mood changes

Depression, anxiety, or reduced motivation.

What can help

  • Psychological support (CBT or counselling)
  • Medications such as antidepressants*
  • Regular physical activity

Cognitive changes

Slower thinking, difficulty concentrating or planning.

What can help

  • Cognitive strategies and memory aids
  • Occupational therapy
  • Review of medications

Constipation

Slower gut movement due to slowed muscles. Dehydration too much or not enough fibre.

What can help

  • Increased fibre and fluid intake
  • Physical activity
  • Laxatives if prescribed

What this means for you

  • Not everyone experiences all symptoms
  • Symptoms change over time
  • Early management improves function and independence

What you should do next

  • Assemble a care team: GP, neurologist, allied health team
  • Start regular exercise early and move daily as a priority
  • Review your symptoms at each appointment
  • Use tools or apps to track symptom changes.
  • Check out the empowerment iceberg below for more suggestions…

References

Waller, S. (2022). Parkinson’s: Diagnosis and management in general practice. Australian Journal of General Practice, 51(11), 839–845.

Bloem, B. R., Okun, M. S., & Klein, C. (2021). Parkinson’s: from pathophysiology to treatment. The Lancet, 397(10291), 2284–2303.

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