Published: Friday, October 4, 2024, 6:00 a.m.
Digestive problems such as ulcers in the esophagus or stomach can increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 76 per cent, a new study has found, and doctors in the UAE have confirmed this.
A study recently published in the European Medical Journal entitled “Upper Gastrointestinal Mucosal Injury and Subsequent Risk of Parkinson’s Disease” found that patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal disease compared to those without have been shown to be at increased risk for Parkinson’s disease. More than 10 years later, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
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gut-brain axis
Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Elshobary, Specialist Director and Clinical Lecturer at the Gastroenterology Center of Tumbay University Hospital, said: “The intestines and the brain are intricately connected through a system known as the gut-brain axis. If there is a problem, the following may occur: Affects brain function and nervous system. For example, problems with the intestines can cause inflammation. Inflammation is a response from the body’s immune system that is associated with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. โ
The doctors emphasized that the gut produces important chemicals, including neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play an important role in regulating mood and cognitive function. Therefore, when digestive problems affect the production of these chemicals, it can negatively impact brain health.
Dr Amal Upadhyay, consultant gastroenterology and hepatology at Sharjah Medcare Hospital, said: “This study shows that patients with constipation and dysphagia are more likely to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) later in life. It also mentions.โ These symptoms are well known to be associated with PD, and gastrointestinal symptoms may tend to appear much earlier than actual neurological symptoms. โ
network of neurons
The doctors explained that the gut has a rich network of neurons just like the brain, and that many neurotransmitters are common among neurons in these diverse locations.
“Neurotransmitter deficiencies can manifest not only in neurological symptoms, but also in gastrointestinal symptoms, and this is well known. What we need to understand is that gut-related symptoms appear much earlier in life. Related factors may also include chronic use of the medications used to treat these conditions, lifestyle that contributes to these symptoms, and many other factors. “There is,” he added.
Medical experts also say that in addition to upper gut problems, lower gut problems such as constipation and IBS (a variant of constipation) can also act as risk factors for PD if not treated effectively. He emphasized that.
Dr. Srinivas Patnaikuni, a gastroenterologist at Prime Hospital and Prime Medical Center, Burjuman branch, said, “The abnormal behavior of gut bacteria is caused by the central nervous system (CNS) through a process called molecular mimicry that supports the original Braak disease. “This leads to cross-seeding of pathological signals into the CNS.” This hypothesis claims that the origin of Parkinson’s disease is in the gut, at least in some patients. โ
He emphasized that in order to keep the intestinal microbiota in a normal state, it is most important to control the maintenance of proper intestinal health.
“This includes consuming freshly prepared foods, following regular eating habits regarding timing, avoiding highly processed and preserved foods, and taking too many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) supplements. This includes avoiding: Always seek professional advice before making any changes to your diet or using any new medications or supplements. It is also important to consume foods rich in probiotics. โ added Patnaikuni.
Other experts supporting the study also reiterated that this correlation appears to be related to the “gut-brain axis,” particularly when damage to the gastrointestinal system with symptoms such as ulcers is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as PD. He said it may be involved in the early onset of the disease. .
Wealth health coach Neeta Jhaveri says: โThis axis refers to the communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain, mediated through neural, immune and hormonal signals. Although data are still limited, the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease is increasing.
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