Michael J Fox opens up about his Parkinson’s diagnosis
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Bowel difficulties could be a warning sign of Parkinson’s, particularly if you’re struggling to go for a number two every day. Straining on the toilet seat is only a potential symptom if it’s accompanied by other signs. The Parkinson’s Foundation explained that “brain changes” can affect the muscles that push food through the digestive system. In addition, the brain condition can “affect the nerves that line the digestive tract” – otherwise known as the enteric nervous system.
Most recently, researchers have found there to be Lewy bodies in the intestines of people with the condition.
“This suggests cell damage in the gut may signal the beginning of Parkinson’s,” said the charity.
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, cell death in the brain is a “relatively late stage” of the disease.
Am I constipated?
Constipation is defined as fewer than three bowel movements over week; this symptom of Parkinson’s tends to occur before motor symptoms.
One research study found that having less than one bowel movement daily indicated a four times higher risk of developing Parkinson’s.
Other causes of constipation can include:
- Not drinking enough water
- A low-fibre diet
- Lack of exercise
- Stress
- Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement
- Irritable bowel syndrome
On its own, constipation can’t be a certain indication of Parkinson’s disease.
However, if it’s combined with a tremor – another early indicator of the brain condition – then it’s time to book an appointment with your doctor.
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Early signs of Parkinson’s
People with Parkinson’s might experience a slight shaking or tremor in their finger, thumb, hand or chin.
Another possible sign could be when your handwriting is getting smaller and smaller.
When you put pen to paper, if the letters are smaller and more crowded than usual, it could a visible warning.
Also pay attention to how your body feels – any stiffness in the body, arms or legs could be a telling sign.
It’s especially a sign of Parkinson’s when a brisk walk doesn’t cause the arms to swing next to your body.
The brain condition can even affect how you sound to other people, causing a “very soft” or hoarse-sounding voice.
Other people might also be caught off guard by a seemingly blank stare in their direction.
People with Parkinson’s can develop “facial masking” where their expression doesn’t match their internal feelings.
In order for a Parkinson’s diagnosis to be made, two of the four following features must be present over a period of time. This includes:
- Shaking or tremor
- Slowness of movement, called bradykinesia
- Stiffness or rigidity of the arms, legs or trunk
Trouble with balance and possible falls, also called postural instability
What causes Parkinson’s?
The condition is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
For instance, there are dozens of hereditary gene mutations that have been linked to the brain condition.
Environmental factors can include a head injury and exposure to pesticides.
The charity stated that more “Parkinson’s-specific research” is needed to better understand how to prevent the condition.
At present, for unknown reasons, the condition seems to affect more men than women.
However, one risk factor that certainly can’t change is a person growing older in age.
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