Parkinson’s breakthrough may improve quality of life
Australian researchers have discovered the key to a common symptom – chronic constipation.
Key facts about disease
Most people with Parkinson’s disease are diagnosed around the age of 65, but one in 10 people diagnosed is younger than 45.
Parkinson’s symptoms are a combination of:
Tremor or shaking at rest, usually one-sided at first
Muscle stiffness (rigidity), which can cause pain and affect posture and movement
Slowing of movement, which can make daily activities such as getting dressed and cooking difficult
Changes to your posture.
Early symptoms can be vague and non-specific, which makes it difficult to diagnose. These may include fatigue, mild depression, restlessness, or localised muscle pain.
Diagnosing Parkinson’s is difficult, especially early on. No single test can provide a diagnosis. A diagnosis will involve your doctor speaking to you about your symptoms and doing a physical examination.
Your doctor might also see if you respond to medicine that increases dopamine levels in your brain. You may need brain scans to rule out other conditions that could cause your symptoms, or blood tests to check for other illnesses.
More information is available here.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes chronic constipation in up to 90% of patients.
It is a condition that progresses with time and happens when the nerve cells in the brain can’t make enough of a body chemical called dopamine, which is vital for the smooth control of muscles and movement.
As an important chemical “messenger”, dopamine is responsible for controlling bowel movements.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered that, to work properly, dopamine needs a partner agent. They found that ghrelin (called the “hunger hormone”) could be the key to preventing debilitating chronic constipation.
However, it’s not just ghrelin that is crucial but the body’s receptor for ghrelin. In the human body, a receptor is a protein molecule, or a specialised cell containing such molecules, that binds to a specific substance, triggering a cellular response. These receptors act as receivers of signals, playing a crucial role in various bodily functions.
The researchers found the ghrelin receptor has a critical role in the normal function of the spinal defecation centre – an area of the body in the lower spinal cord that controls bowel movements.
“Chronic constipation is debilitating and is one of the biggest factors for reduction in the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s because it is poorly managed by current approaches,” said Associate Professor Sebastian Furness, from the School of Biomedical Science.
He says Parkinson’s disease can cause changes in the spinal control pathway for defecation, which is why constipation is a common problem for patients.
The researchers are now exploring how medicines targeting the ghrelin receptor may help alleviate chronic constipation for people with Parkinson’s.
“This discovery might allow us to substantially improve the lives for people living with Parkinson’s disease,” Dr Furness said.
Related reading: Health Direct, UQ, Australian Seniors News
Photo by Tristan Le on Pexels.com
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
