Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, is typically known for its impact on movement—think tremors, slowness, stiffness, and balance issues. Affecting over 10 million people globally, Parkinson’s occurs when certain nerve cells in the brain stop producing dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter responsible for smooth, coordinated muscle movement. But here’s what many don’t know—before the hands tremble or the steps slow, Parkinson’s might already be making itself heard, through your voice. Yes you read

“This disease often begins quietly, almost invisibly,” explains Dr Aditya Gupta, Director- Neurosurgery and Cyberknife, Artemis Hospital Gurugram. “In fact, subtle changes in speech and voice—such as reduced volume, monotony, or hoarseness—can be some of the very first symptoms of Parkinson’s, sometimes appearing years before the more obvious motor signs.”

The Voice as a Clue

Parkinson’s affects the substantia nigra, a part of the brain that produces dopamine. As this dopamine supply dwindles, so does the brain's ability to coordinate muscle movements—including those responsible for speech.

“One of the early signs is hypophonia, where the person’s voice becomes unusually soft,” says Dr Gupta. “What’s tricky is that most people don’t even notice it happening. They feel like they’re speaking at their normal volume, but others start asking them to repeat themselves or speak louder.”

These changes may include:

Why These Signs Are Missed

As these symptoms can develop gradually, they’re often misattributed to ageing, a cold, or fatigue. The person affected might remain unaware, as their perception of how they sound becomes skewed.

“The brain’s internal feedback loop is compromised,” explains Dr Gupta. “So someone with Parkinson’s may think they’re speaking just fine, even when they’re barely audible to others.”

Usually, it's the people around them—spouses, children, colleagues—who first pick up on the change. “If multiple people keep saying, ‘You’re speaking softer’ or ‘Your voice sounds different,’ it’s time to pay attention,” he adds.

Why Early Detection Matters

While Parkinson’s disease currently has no cure, early diagnosis can make a huge difference in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life. The earlier it's caught, the sooner treatments like medication, physiotherapy, and speech therapy can begin.

“Voice changes can actually serve as an early biomarker,” says Dr Gupta. “If identified early, we can intervene faster, which helps preserve functionality longer.”

Research is ongoing into using AI voice analysis tools to detect Parkinson’s based on subtle vocal changes, even over the phone—underscoring how powerful a diagnostic tool the voice might become.

Managing Voice and Speech Changes

Speech-language therapy is the frontline treatment for voice issues in Parkinson’s. “Through structured vocal exercises, therapists help improve loudness, clarity, and articulation,” explains Dr Gupta. One popular approach is LSVT LOUD, a therapy specifically designed for people with Parkinson’s to recalibrate their perception of how loud they should speak.

Here are some self-help tips Dr Gupta recommends:

Don’t Ignore the Whisper

So this World Parkinson’s Day, take a moment to tune in—not just to the visible symptoms but also to the subtle shifts in how someone speaks. If your voice, or that of someone you care about, has changed without explanation, it’s worth exploring further.

“As subtle as it seems, that soft or monotonous voice might be your brain’s early SOS,” Dr Gupta shares. “The sooner we hear it, the better we can respond—and that can change the entire journey with Parkinson’s.”

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