Constipation Remedies

Remedies for constipation depend on its severity. Mild constipation can be treated effectively with home remedies. Constipation that does not respond to home remedies and lifestyle changes needs medical treatment.

Home Remedies For Constipation

Most home remedies are based on foods with high fiber content as fiber helps form bulky but soft stools. Fiber rich foods include oats, bran meal, whole gram, vegetables and fruits. These foods lessen constipation symptoms and also help prevent it. When increasing fiber intake, water consumption should also be increased to relieve constipation. Water lubricates the colon and makes movement of stools smooth. Warm water taken early in the morning helps relieve constipation. Castor oil is a natural laxative that provides instant relief. Taking lime juice made in warm water for a week reduces constipation and also prevents future occurrences. Dates and figs contain high fiber content. Fennel seeds are also beneficial.

Making Changes To Lifestyle

Adequate sleep is necessary for the body’s metabolic mechanism to function since detoxification does not take place until the body gets rest. Lack of sleep is one of the primary causes for several problems including constipation. Physical activity maintains a healthy rate of metabolism. Digestion and blood circulation are improved with exercise, which are essential for preventing constipation. Alcohol consumption must be avoided when constipated as it causes dehydration. It also elevates the risk of colon cancer, which causes constipation as a symptom.

Regular Colon Cleansing

Problems like diverticulitis are common if the colon is not clean. Colon cleansing products should be used on a regular basis to prevent blockage and constipation. Consulting a dietician or a gastroenterologist before their use is recommended.

Laxative Remedies

Laxatives help in the formation of soft stools and easy expulsion from the colon. They come in different strengths. For mild constipation, laxatives prescribed are stool softeners and fiber supplements. For constipation that is more severe, stimulants and chlorine channel activators are prescribed. Laxative should not be taken for longer than the prescribed duration as they can make the body dependent on them and on withdrawal of the medication cause constipation.

Muscle Control Exercises

Muscle control exercises are a remedy for problems of the anal sphincter and abdominal muscles. These exercises are suggested for individuals with neuromuscular problems or those who have sustained nerve damaged. It can also be useful to alleviate painful constipation. A physician evaluates the existing muscle function and designs exercises that help stimulate bowel movement and easy exit of stools.

Surgery As A Remedy

Surgical treatment may be done in case of an emergency or based on the severity of the underlying causes. Surgery is done to remove the infected part and join the remaining colon. Tumors are most often removed with laparoscopic surgeries. Prolapsed colon, which causes blockage, needs immediate surgical treatment. When a large part of the colon is infected, a colostomy is done, where a bag is connected to the colon for emptying waste. After the colon has healed, the bag is removed and the colon is joined to the rectum.

Constipation is common and is often not serious. If left unattended however, it can lead to hemorrhoids, toxin build up and a prolapsed intestine due to excessive straining.