Parkinson's & Constipation: An Early Disease Symptom?

Most of us have experienced temporary constipation at one point or another. Often it’s caused by a benign reason, like eating too much dairy or being dehydrated. But persistent constipation is also a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease. 

How Does Parkinson’s Cause Constipation?

There are likely two reasons that patients with Parkinson’s experience constipation.

“First, nerve cell changes in Parkinson’s disease can impact the work of muscles that push food through the digestive system,” says movement disorders neurologist, Anton Svetlanov, D.O., Ph.D. “Basically, Parkinson’s can cause the digestive tract to slow which results in constipation.”

Additionally, constipation can be a side effect of some Parkinson’s medications. The issue can become worse with certain lifestyle behaviors, such as lack of movement, diet low on fiber and low fluids intake. 

Symptoms of Constipation in Parkinson’s Patients

Constipation is usually thought of as not being able to have a bowel movement. But that’s not the only sign. Other common signs of constipation include:

• Difficulty passing stool
• Pain when passing stool
• Dry and hard stools
• Infrequent bowel movements, less than three times per week

How to Get Relief From Constipation

There are a variety of options available to treat and prevent constipation related to Parkinson’s. Dr. Svetlanov advises:

• Lifestyle changes: Simple actions such as staying hydrated, exercising regularly and consuming more fiber can make a noticeable difference.
• Medication: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, there are many options to treat constipation including laxatives, stool softeners, lubricants and stimulants. However, you need to consult your doctor before using them to make sure you use what’s right for you.
• Probiotics: Maintaining a healthy gut biome may treat and/or prevent constipation. Probiotics can be obtained by eating certain food such as yogurt or taken as a supplement. Speak with your doctor before changing or starting any new diet or supplement regime.

Other Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

Constipation can be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease, but other early symptoms may include:

• Decreased sense of smell or taste is an early sign, sometimes preceding other symptoms by many years.
• Changes in sleep, such as acting out dreams with movements such as kicking and punching in sleep, is another early sign.

Later symptoms may include:

• Writing changes: Your handwriting may become small and cramped. You also may find it difficult to write.
• Tremor: Tremor is most common in your hands or fingers and may occur when you’re at rest. The tremor may decrease when you perform motor tasks.
• Slowed movement: Your movement may slow over time, making once easy and simple tasks time-consuming and challenging. You may shuffle your feet or struggle to get out of a chair.
• Rigid muscles: Stiffness throughout the body may occur, limiting your range of motion.
• Balance problems: You may lose your balance and fall.

“There is no single indicator of Parkinson’s disease,” says Dr. Svetlanov. “Constipation has countless causes, as do many symptoms of Parkinson’s. So if you notice changes, it’s a good idea to see your doctor.”

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Anton Svetlanov, D.O., Ph.D.
• To make an appointment with a neurologist near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
• Learn more about our treatment for Parkinson’s disease