Exploring the Impact of Constipation on Mental Health and Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease Patients: A Clinical and Mendelian Randomization Approach

Abstract

Background and Aims: Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients frequently experience constipation and non-motor symptoms, significantly affecting their quality of life. Although constipation is common, its causal relationship with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate the association between constipation severity, non-motor symptoms, and mental health outcomes in PD patients.

Methods: A total of 97 PD patients from three hospitals in Changshu City were included in this study. Clinical data were collected using assessment tools, including the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale, Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life questionnaire, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale , and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. Mendelian randomization analysis was applied to examine the causal relationships between constipation severity, non-motor symptoms, and mental health outcomes.

Results: A moderate correlation was found between constipation severity and non-motor symptoms, especially in elderly and female patients. However, no significant causal association was identified between constipation and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders.

Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of managing constipation in PD patients to improve their non-motor symptoms and quality of life. Despite the observed correlation with non-motor symptoms, further studies are needed to clarify the role of constipation in mental health issues in PD.