Dr. Rhea Rogers explains subtle physical markers that appear before Parkinson's tremors
Loss of smell, constipation, and handwriting changes are cited by a physician as early indicators that often precede motor symptoms.
By Jasmine Carter ·
Parkinson's disease is widely known for tremors, but those visible movements are often a late stage in the progression of the condition.
Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, stated that the disease can begin long before a tremor appears, with subtle changes that are easy for patients and families to miss.
Rogers identified three specific early warning signs: a loss of smell, persistent constipation, and noticeable changes in handwriting.
She noted that by the time tremors become apparent, significant damage has often already occurred in the nervous system.
The discussion also addressed when individuals should seek medical support for mental health issues. Rogers advised that if feeling low, disconnected, or unlike oneself lasts for weeks or months, it is time to consult a provider.
She emphasized that chronic stress, thyroid imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies can contribute to these feelings, so the decision to start medication requires individual evaluation.
Rogers cautioned that antidepressants are not happy pills and that withdrawal symptoms exist, but they provide a framework for addressing underlying issues.
"They’re not happy pills. They don’t take away the sadness, but they will be a way for you to work on how you got there or what else is going on," Rogers said.
In a separate segment, the program highlighted cash incentives used by cities to attract remote workers following the pandemic. Cumberland, Maryland, launched a pilot program called Choose Cumberland, which offers $20,000 to up to 10 people who agree to relocate.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, has operated a similar program called Tulsa Remote since before the pandemic, paying remote workers $10,000 to move to the city and rent or buy a home.
The broadcast also featured two Michigan nonprofits working together to provide free therapy and service dogs to veterans and first responders.
Tonya and Scott Shea created the nonprofit We Walk the Line to raise funds for Blue Star Service Dogs after their son, Army Spc. Connor Shea, died by suicide following two years of service at the National Training Center in the Mojave Desert.
