Many of the early symptoms of PSP are listed below. However, it should be noted that because PSP is such an individual disease, with symptoms reflecting the areas in the brain where neurons (nerve endings) die, the order of appearance of such early symptoms varies considerably from person to person.
If you have such symptoms, whether or not you have PSP or CBD, you should consult your GP for advice.
Balance and movement
PSP affects balance and movement. Falls, especially backwards, are often one of the early signs of PSP and are unusual in other conditions.
Assessment by a physiotherapist or at a falls clinic is important to decrease the risk of falls, thereby also helping to reduce the risk of injury.
Speech and swallowing
One of the most challenging aspects of PSP is its impact on communication. The person's voice can become weak (whispering) and speech can become irregular, slurred or slow, making it harder to understand.
Swallowing may be affected, making it harder to eat and drink. As the muscles in the throat work less efficiently, small amounts of liquid and food can ‘go down the wrong way', causing coughing and sometimes infection requiring antibiotic treatment.
Assessment by a speech and language therapist is important to help manage such speech and swallowing problems.
Sight
PSP can affect the ability to look up or down (upgaze and downgaze). Difficulty with looking up at the ceiling or down at the floor without moving the head is common. PSP can also affect the ability to open or close eyelids, focus on objects or maintain eye contact, which may affect how other people respond. The eyes can also become sensitive to light.
An ophthalmologist or orthoptist can assess vision capability and advise on sight issues.
Mood and behaviour
PSP can also cause emotional changes such as outbursts of anger, irritability, crying, or anxiety. Over time it can affect a person's judgement, such as getting out of a chair or walking too quickly when unsteady, risking a fall.