Tummy Trouble and Parkinson's Disease?

Approximately 90,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease each year. Although not fatal, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ranks Parkinson's disease as the 14^th cause of death in the US due to its severe complications. Let’s explore more about this disease and the link between gut bacteria and the brain.

What Is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that occurs when nerve cells in a specific area of the brain, the substantia nigra, don't produce enough brain chemicals called dopamine.

Symptoms such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement), tremor and rigidity usually begin gradually and worsen over time. Gut-related conditions are also common nonmotor symptoms among people with Parkinson's disease, including excess saliva and swallowing dysfunction.

Could Gut Bacteria Cause Parkinson's Disease?

Trillions of microorganisms found in the human gut, collectively called the microbiome, influence many systems in the body. The following functions influence the nervous system of the stomach:

• Digestion of food
• Warding off harmful microorganisms
• Absorption of nutrients
• Production of essential vitamins

According to studies cited by the American Parkinson Disease Association, there may be a connection between gut bacteria and the disease. There is evidence of an increase in certain families of bacteria, such as the Lactobacillaceae and Verrucomicrobiaceae and a decrease in the family Prevotellaceae in people with Parkinson's disease. The studies show that changes in the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the pathology of Parkinson's disease.

In Parkinson's disease, the gut bacteria's ability to break down fat is altered, making it harder to regulate bile acid production. Disruptions in bile acid production could be a potential indicator of the condition.

What Are Symptoms and Stages of Parkinson's Disease?

In addition to movement-related issues such as tremors and balance difficulties, many people with Parkinson’s also develop nonmovement symptoms that can be even more disabling. These may include cognitive changes, mood disorders, fatigue, hallucinations, delusions, orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness), sexual dysfunction and sleep disorders like insomnia. Early signs of Parkinson’s can also include small handwriting, where writing becomes smaller and more crowded over time as well as loss of smell, particularly for foods like bananas, dill pickles and licorice. Recognizing these early indicators can help with timely diagnosis and management.

Parkinson's disease affects people in different ways. Even if some people experience all the condition symptoms, others won't necessarily experience them in quite the same way. The following stages show the progression of this condition:

• Stage 1 - tremor and other movement symptoms occur on one side of the body only that generally do not interfere with daily activities
• Stage 2 - symptoms start getting worse. Walking problems and poor posture may be apparent and daily tasks are more challenging and lengthy.
• Stage 3 - loss of balance and slowness of movements occur. Although the person is still fully independent, dressing and eating can be difficult.
• Stage 4 - symptoms are severe and limiting at this stage. The person may need assistance with daily living and may be unable to live alone.
• Stage 5 - the most advanced and debilitating stage. The person requires a wheelchair or is bedridden. Hallucinations and delusions may begin to set in as well.

Parkinson's Disease Treatment

While there is no known cure for Parkinson's disease, treatments are based on a person's symptoms and stage, including medication and surgical therapy. In addition to medical treatments, exercise plays a critical role in managing Parkinson’s disease. Research shows that people who begin exercising earlier, at least 2.5 hours per week, experience a slower decline in quality of life compared to those who start later. Various forms of physical activity, including tai chi, yoga, Pilates, dance, weight training and non-contact boxing, have been shown to improve balance, mobility and overall symptom management.

If you think you are experiencing early signs of Parkinson's disease, consult with a neurologist right away. Please do not delay care.