Contents
The variety of causes that cause impaired evacuation of feces from the intestines require carefully thought out and individualized treatment tactics based on clinical examination data. The immediate administration of laxatives is the most common, simple, but certainly false therapeutic route. Unfortunately, irritating and aggressive laxatives are the most commonly used.
An integrated approach to the problem will not only relieve the patient of painful constipation once and for all, but also significantly improve his quality of life. However, the patient himself must make every effort, disciplinedly follow the instructions of the gastroenterologist and avoid self-medication.
The first thing you need to do when starting to solve the problem is to normalize your diet and intensify your lifestyle. Often, this is already enough to improve the condition of a patient suffering from long-term constipation.
Diagnosis and treatment of the underlying disease that causes constipation
The first stage of treatment is to identify the cause of constipation and a detailed conversation between the doctor and the patient about the causes of constipation.
The patient’s misconceptions about stool frequency are often the beginning of uncontrolled use of laxatives. It is necessary to convey basic information about intestinal regulation and existing prejudices.
meet:
The author of this article is a leading gastroenterologist at the Prima Medica network of clinics,
doctor of the highest category Dzhizalov Atsamaz Khasanovich.
- work experience since 2006
- graduated from the Saratov Military Medical Institute
- clinical residency in 2016
Normalization of nutrition for constipation
When compiling a diet, it is necessary to take into account the effect of various foods on intestinal motility.
Emptying the intestines is promoted by: black bread and bran bread, raw vegetables, fruits and dried fruits, cereals, pickles, marinades, smoked meats, mineral water, lemonade, juices, kvass, jelly, fermented milk products.
Bowel emptying is delayed by foods that contain tannin: black tea, cocoa, red wine, pureed food, food with a viscous consistency, semolina and rice cereals.
It is also necessary to take into account the dietary fiber content of foods. Patients with constipation and complaints of bloating should limit or exclude foods rich in dietary fiber from their diet.
In the absence of individual contraindications (heart disease, edema), a patient who suffers from constipation needs to drink 1,5-2 liters of fluid per day. Food should be taken 5 times a day. Long breaks between doses, snacks on the go, and fast food are not allowed.
Physical activity for constipation
Active physical activity plays a huge role in the prevention and treatment of constipation. Any physical activity and exercises are very useful, they stimulate the motor activity of the intestines, while the muscles of the abdominal wall are strengthened, the tone of the whole body increases, and the neuropsychic sphere is stabilized.
Constipation Treatment Methods
Laxatives for constipation
A rather acute problem in the treatment of constipation is the use of laxatives. At first, laxatives are quite effective, but with prolonged use, addiction is possible, the consequence of which is a complete loss of the independent urge to defecate. Laxatives are absolutely contraindicated for constipation, which is caused by dietary habits, and for dyskinetic constipation (constipation as a result of psychogenic influences).
Side effects of laxatives:
- metabolic disorders,
- dysfunction of the small and large intestine,
- allergy,
- intestinal obstruction,
- cancer of the gastrointestinal tract
- itching in the anus.
Most of these reactions occur after years of laxative abuse.
Medicinal herbs for constipation
When treating constipation, do not neglect medicinal herbs. Biologically active substances contained in herbs have a beneficial effect. Since constipation often causes bloating, taking carminative herbs is helpful.
Enema for constipation
Used for acute constipation that occurs after surgery, for infectious diseases, poisoning, myocardial infarction and other emergency conditions.
Medicinal suppositories for constipation
For constipation, medicinal suppositories are used, but you need to remember that the use of suppositories should be short-lived. With prolonged use, it is possible that signs of rectal irritation may appear.
Physiotherapy for constipation
It is possible to use various physiotherapeutic methods of treatment: faradization of the abdomen, galvanization, ultraviolet irradiation, etc.
Very important to remember!
- Constipation is a serious disease that requires proper diagnosis and individual treatment.
- Straining during bowel movements damages the nerve endings of the pelvic floor and only worsens constipation.
- Treatment of constipation is based on an integrated approach. Do not self-medicate.
- Always consider the side effects of laxatives.