With around 65 percent of people with Parkinson’s affected by constipation, it’s a common symptom which can be annoying and uncomfortable to manage.
While it’s easy to become obsessed with bowel activity, the good news is that Parkinson’s-related constipation can be managed with lifestyle changes.
10 tips to help manage constipation in Parkinson’s:
- Monitor your fibre intake
Make sure you’re getting the right amount of fibre in your diet. While many people benefit from plenty of fibre, it is worth knowing that fibre is not universally beneficial and individual responses to it can vary. There is such a thing as ‘too much’, especially if you increase your intake very quickly, without increasing your fluid intake.
If you’re struggling to get the balance right, speak to your doctor. If you find increasing your fibre intake will be beneficial, look to include things like wholegrain cereals and bread, and a wide range of fruit and vegetables in your meals.
- Drink the right things at the right time
Drink plenty of fluids to aid the digestion of fibres. Most people should aim for six to eight cups a day, including water, tea, coffee, milk and juice. Fizzy drinks should be avoided as they can cause bloating and alcohol can make constipation worse, so it’s best to drink in moderation.
Urinary urgency is a common symptom in people with Parkinson’s and can sometimes lead to reduced fluid intake. Finding your sleep is disrupted by frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom? Current advice suggests it may help to consume most of your daily fluids earlier in the day, while reducing intake closer to bedtime.
- Start the day right
As soon as you get up in the morning, have a warm drink and something to eat. This helps to stimulate bowel activity first thing.
- Eat little and often
Instead of sitting down to large meals, switch to eating frequent, small meals throughout the day to aid digestion and keep constipation at bay.
- Think about what you eat
Aim for a well-balanced diet, and avoid food with a high fat content, like fatty meats, butter and cream.
- Coffee and tea
Caffeine can often encourage bowel movements, so there’s no need to forgo that morning cup of tea or coffee. A perfect excuse to put the kettle on.
- Keep fit
Exercise can actually stimulate the bowel muscles, making it easier to go to the toilet, so try and work some physical movement into your day. It can also strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which helps reduce constipation.
- Manage medication
Parkinson’s medications like Levodopa can cause or contribute to constipation issues. It may be better to take Levodopa on an empty stomach but always consult with your doctor first.
- Talk about it
Many people find it embarrassing to talk to their doctor about bowel movements, but it’s essential you’re honest and transparent with your healthcare professionals if you’re having any problems.
We promise you they’ve heard it all before and there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Speak up as soon as possible – a proactive approach to treatment really can reduce the impact that constipation has on your life.
- Laxatives
If lifestyle changes still aren’t having a positive impact on your Parkinson’s-related constipation, your doctor may be able to suggest suitable laxatives or stool softeners to encourage more regular and comfortable bowel movements.
Source:
Original article by Sarah Dawson, Parkinson’s Europe.
Marta Camacho, a Senior Research Fellow in Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Cambridge approved this advice.
