Alan Alda Details Unexpected Parkinson's Symptom
The actor revealed he acted out his dreams before his diagnosis, a lesser-known early indicator of the disease.
Actor Alan Alda, 90, has shared that acting out his dreams was the symptom that ultimately led to his Parkinson's disease diagnosis at age 79. Alda revealed on CBS Mornings that this specific symptom, known as REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, was not commonly associated with Parkinson's at the time of his diagnosis.
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder causes individuals to physically act out their dreams. Alda recounted an instance where he dreamt someone was attacking him, and he threw a pillow at his wife, Arlene, while asleep. He noted that he did not experience the more typical signs of Parkinson's, such as tremors, twitching, or voice problems.
Alda was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2015 but publicly disclosed his condition in 2018. The MAS*H star has adopted a humorous approach to coping with the illness, stating that he does not let Parkinson's define him and refers to it as a "hobby."
He described experiencing moments where his hand is moved by the disease while typing an email, but he finds humor in these instances. Alda emphasizes the importance of accepting his current reality rather than wishing it away or hoping for a different future.
Alda's acting career began in the 1950s, leading to his first Broadway role in 1964. He is widely recognized for his role as Captain "Hawkeye" Pierce in the television series MAS*H, which ran for 11 seasons from 1972 to 1983. The show garnered significant critical acclaim, earning 109 Emmy nominations and 14 wins.
In 2015, Alda spoke about the intense pressures of fame, recalling that the constant attention led to night terrors and hallucinations for about six months. He suggested that actors on the cusp of stardom should receive support from experienced individuals, cautioning that fame can introduce a new set of problems.
