Constipation, REM Sleep Disorder May Signal Parkinson's 10-15 Years Early, Doctor Says
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jul 29
Constipation, REM Sleep Disorder May Signal Parkinson's 10-15 Years Early, Doctor Says
2 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jul 29
Summary
Constipation and REM sleep disorder can appear years or even decades before Parkinson's tremors, Dr. Trisha Pasricha said, pointing to growing evidence that some cases may begin outside the brain.
Misfolded protein linked to Parkinson's may start in the gut before traveling to the brain, she said, backing a "first-gut theory" that could eventually allow prodromal diagnosis from gut changes.
10-15 years is Pasricha's timeline for potentially diagnosing early Parkinson's from the gut, as many patients already report debilitating gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation and nausea long before motor signs.
GLP-1 drugs may also protect the gut despite well-known digestive side effects, with Pasricha citing lab findings of lower risks of ulcers, colorectal cancer and about a dozen other cancers.
95% of Americans miss fiber targets, she said, framing diet as part of the gut-brain link because higher fiber intake supports heart and brain health while reducing inflammation.