How Is Constipation Treated

Constipation is a common problem that normally does not require any treatment. It is a condition that can be caused due to travel, changes in routine, diet and other lifestyle factors. In most cases, a correction of these factors will bring you relief. However, sometimes constipation may require treatment depending on the severity.

1. Diet Correction Treatment and Lifestyle Changes

Lack of fiber is the main cause for constipation. An increase in the intake of fiber will normally result in bulky and free moving stool. You need to take a fiber rich diet like fruits and vegetables, flax seed etc. Fiber can be effective only in the presence of water. Hence, water intake should also be increased to counter constipation. When constipated, food like rice, baked products and alcohol should be avoided, as they make the stool harder. Adequate sleep and physical exercise is essential to ensure free movement in the bowel. Stress also has a role to play in constipation and hence stress control is essential.

2. Colon Cleansing

A clean colon means no blockage. Accumulation of indigested food can make it difficult to pass stool. By cleaning the colon with colon cleansing products and keeping it clean, constipation can be treated as well as prevented.

3. Use Of Laxatives

Laxatives make it easy to pass stools. Laxatives come in different strengths. The mildest laxatives are just fiber supplements that makes stool bulkier. For mild cases of constipation this remedy would suffice. In case of hard stool, along with diet regulation stool softeners are also prescribed. For problems with the muscles of the anus, stimulants help. The use of laxatives for a long duration needs to be closely evaluated.

4. Behavioral Therapy

In individuals where the control of muscles is lost due to trauma, neurological problems or post surgery, behavioral therapy based on bio feedback can prove to be very useful.
A sensor is placed in the rectum or vagina and muscle contraction data is collected. This gives us more information on the residual function. Exercises are then prescribed to make the muscle groups more efficient.

5. Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be required in chronic cases of constipation. The objective of surgery is not to treat constipation but the underlying cause. Cancer is removed through a Colectomy. If the colon cannot succeed in expelling waste, a bag may be placed to facilitate emptying. To stimulate the muscles of the anus, a stimulator may be inserted. The mode of surgical treatment is chosen only after a diagnosis has been made and other options of treatment have failed.

6. Home Remedies

Treatment of mild constipation can be done at home. Drinking lemon juice early in the morning with a pinch of salt can make stool smoother. Eating papaya early in the morning is also beneficial. Warm milk with a teaspoon of ghee helps relieve constipation instantly. Consumption of spinach on a daily basis keeps constipation under control. Warm water can loosen stool. Figs and almonds soaked in water for one night can treat constipation. Home remedies, apart from making stool smoother, also prevent the onset of constipation. Further, you can also use a colon cleansing product as it has proven to be highly beneficial.