‘Biggest sign is constipation’: Expert explains what the symptom really means for Parkinson’s risk

Constipation is a common digestive issue that may signal something more serious, such as Parkinson's disease, according to neuroprogrammist Varun Harrold. Harrold noted that constipation can appear years before a Parkinson's diagnosis, with patients often reporting a history of it. The expert highlighted the growing interest in the gut-brain connection, emphasizing the importance of maintaining gut health through proper diet, exercise, and hydration to prevent the accumulation of harmful proteins that could cross the blood-brain barrier and impact the brain.

However, Harrold cautioned against misinterpreting constipation as a definitive sign of Parkinson's disease. Dr. Bhushan Bhole, a Senior Consultant at PSRI Hospital, confirmed that research supports a link between constipation and the early stages of Parkinson's disease, with some cases showing constipation ten to twenty years prior to motor symptoms. He explained that the disease's progression may begin in the gut, affecting the enteric nervous system and slowing bowel movements before significant brain involvement.

Despite the potential connection, Dr. Bhole stressed that constipation alone is not a reliable predictor of Parkinson's. Both experts agreed that a healthy lifestyle, including a fiber-rich diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration, promotes overall well-being and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including Parkinson's, but the evidence is still evolving.

He advised that persistent constipation, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like a diminished sense of smell, tremors, muscle stiffness, or difficulty with handwriting, should prompt a medical evaluation to rule out Parkinson's disease.