Constipation

Constipation is a common digestive disorder characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, and/or hard and dry stool. It is estimated that approximately 20% of the general population suffers from constipation, making it a prevalent condition worldwide. Constipation can be acute, which means it is a short-term problem, or chronic, which means it is a long-term issue that may require medical attention.

Causes and Risk Factors of Constipation

There are many factors that can contribute to the development of constipation. Some of the most common causes and risk factors include:

• Lack of Fiber: A diet low in fiber is a common cause of constipation. Fiber helps to soften stool and makes it easier to pass.

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can lead to constipation. The colon absorbs water from the food waste that passes through it, and if there isn't enough water available, the stool can become hard and difficult to pass.

• Inactivity: Lack of physical activity can also contribute to constipation. Exercise helps to stimulate the bowel and promote regular bowel movements.

• Medications: Certain medications can cause constipation as a side effect. These include painkillers, antacids, and antidepressants.

• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause or contribute to constipation, including irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid disorders, and Parkinson's disease.

Symptoms of Constipation

The symptoms of constipation can vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include:

• Infrequent bowel movements

• Difficulty passing stool

• Hard and dry stool

• Abdominal discomfort or pain

• Bloating and gas

Preventing and Treating Constipation

There are several things you can do to prevent and treat constipation, including:

• Increase your fiber intake: Eating a diet rich in fiber can help to prevent and treat constipation. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is important for preventing constipation. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help to promote regular bowel movements.

• Use the bathroom when you feel the urge: Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement can lead to constipation.

• Consider laxatives: Laxatives can help to relieve constipation, but they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative therapies that can help to relieve constipation. These therapies work by stimulating specific points on the body to promote bowel movement. Acupuncture and acupressure can help to promote the movement of energy in the body, which can help to alleviate constipation. Oriental medicine can also help to address underlying imbalances in the body that may be contributing to constipation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, constipation is a common digestive disorder that can be prevented and treated with lifestyle changes and medication. Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure can also be helpful in relieving constipation. If you are experiencing constipation, talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for you.

References :

• "Constipation: Diagnosis and Treatment" by Anthony Lembo and Michael Camilleri, published in American Family Physician in 2003. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and treatment of constipation, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and behavioral therapies.

• "Treatment of Constipation with Chinese Herbal Medicines: A Systematic Review" by Huijuan Cao et al., published in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2009. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicines for the treatment of constipation.

• "Acupuncture for Chronic Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" by Lijuan Wu et al., published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2015. This meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of chronic constipation.

• "Abdominal Massage for the Treatment of Constipation" by Sharon R. Rose et al., published in Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2012. This study evaluates the effectiveness of abdominal massage for the treatment of constipation in elderly patients.

• "The Effectiveness of Yoga in the Treatment of Chronic Constipation: A Systematic Review" by Claire M. Peterson et al., published in Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology in 2019. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of yoga for the treatment of chronic constipation.

• "Aromatherapy Massage for Chronic Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by Wenxiu Guo et al., published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2015. This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of aromatherapy massage for the treatment of chronic constipation.

• "Herbal Medicine for Constipation: A Systematic Review" by Hajar Sadeghi et al., published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2020. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of herbal medicines for the treatment of constipation.

• "Effect of Acupressure on Chronic Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial" by Shirin Hasanpoor-Azghdy et al., published in Journal of Clinical Nursing in 2017. This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of acupressure for the treatment of chronic constipation in women.

• "Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Intestinal Microbiota in Constipated Patients" by Yanfeng Zhang et al., published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine in 2019. This study evaluates the effects of traditional Chinese medicine on intestinal microbiota in patients with constipation.

• "Effectiveness of Manual Therapy and Exercise for Patients with Constipation: A Systematic Review" by Tae-Hun Kim et al., published in Physiotherapy in 2018. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of manual therapy and exercise for the treatment of constipation.