Parkinson’s disease is a condition that causes the brain to become progressively more damaged over time, said the NHS.
It’s caused by a loss of nerve cells in a specific part of the brain. These nerve cells are used to help send messages between the brain and the nervous system.
Parkinson’s disease symptoms tend to develop gradually, and only appear as mild at first.
One of the more common signs of Parkinson’s disease is constipation, it’s been revealed.
Frequently feeling constipated is a common warning symptom of Parkinson’s disease, according to charity The Michael J. Fox Foundation For Parkinson’s Research.
But, how are you supposed to know if you’re constipated? You’re likely to be constipated if you haven’t had a poo at least three times in a single week, added the NHS.
Your stool may also be difficult to push out, or larger than usual, it said.
The charity said: “Constipation is common in Parkinson's disease. Fibre-Rich foods and fluids may ease symptoms of constipation.
“People with a history of constipation may be at increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease down the road.
“Chronic constipation is common among people who suffer from Parkinson's and it has been suggested that constipation may precede the appearance of classic movement symptoms of the disease in some people.”
Parkinson's disease symptoms: Signs of brain condition include constipation (Image: GETTY Images)
The NHS added: “It’s likely to be constipation if the poo is often dry, hard or lumpy.
“However, it's not unusual for a breastfeeding baby to go a week without having a poo.”
Despite its link to Parkinson’s disease, constipation is very common and affects most people at some point in their lifetime.
It can usually be treated at one with simple diet changes, including eating more fruit, vegetables or cereals.
But, you should speak to a doctor if your symptoms aren’t improving with treatments, or if you’re regularly constipated and it lasts a long time.
Parkinson's disease symptoms: Signs include slow movement and stiffness (Image: GETTY Images)
Some of the most common Parkinson’s disease symptoms include tremors, slow movement and unusual stiffness.
Most patients start to develop their symptoms after they turn 50 years old, and men are slightly more at risk than women.
Speak to a GP if you’re worried about the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, said the NHS.
They may ask you about your symptoms, and could refer you to a specialist for further tests.
There are around 127,000 people in the UK with Parkinson’s disease. That’s about one in every 500 people.
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