Constipation: Causes, Signs and Ayurvedic Medicines
What is Constipation?
Constipation is a digestive disorder marked by infrequent or difficult bowel movements. A low-fiber diet, dehydration, inactivity, certain drugs, and preexisting illnesses are only some of the many potential triggers. Constipation can cause stomach pain, a sense of incomplete evacuation, straining during bowel motions, and firm stools. Over-the-counter drugs like laxatives or stool softeners may be used in addition to making lifestyle modifications including eating more fibre, drinking more water, and getting frequent exercise. Seek medical counsel to rule out underlying illnesses or consider prescription therapies for constipation if it is chronic or severe.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation occurs when releasing stools is problematic or when bowel movements are infrequent. There are numerous potential causes of constipation, such as:
Inadequate fibre
A dietary regimen that is inadequate in fibre can cause constipation because fibre adds mass to faeces and aids in their passage through the intestines.
Dehydration
Dehydration can cause difficult-to-pass faeces that are dry, firm, and difficult to pass.
Physical activity
Physical activity helps stimulate the muscles in the intestines, which can facilitate gastrointestinal movements.
Certain medications
Certain medications can cause constipation, including analgesics, antacids, and certain antidepressants.
Medical conditions
Constipation can be caused by medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism, and neurological disorders.
Ignoring the urge to defecate
Ignoring the urge to defecate can lead to constipation because it can cause excrement to solidify and become more difficult to pass.
How common is Constipation
Constipation is a common problem that affects people of all ages, but older adults tend to have it more often.
Some figures say that up to 20% of people will have constipation at some point in their lives. But the number of people who have constipation can change based on how studies define constipation and who they look at.
Constipation can also be a long-term problem for some people. Between 2% and 7% of people have chronic constipation. Constipation is more likely to happen to women, older adults, and people with medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
It's important to remember that people have bowel movements at different times, and what one person thinks is normal may not be normal for another. But if you have serious or long-lasting constipation, you should talk to your doctor to find out what's going on and make a treatment plan.
Does Constipation Lead to Internal Damage or Cause Other Health Problems?
If constipation is not properly treated or if it becomes chronic, it can cause a number of health issues. Among the potential complications of constipation are the following:
Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, which are swollen vessels in the rectal region, can be caused by straining during gastrointestinal movements.
Anal fissures
Stools that are hard and dry can cause tiny perforations in the anal membrane, resulting in painful fissures.
Rectal prolapse
Chronic constipation can weaken and deform the rectal walls, resulting in rectal prolapse.
Faecal impaction
In extreme instances, constipation can lead to faecal impaction, which occurs when hard faeces becomes lodged in the rectum and is unable to exit.
Diverticulitis
Constipation can result in the formation of diverticula, or tiny pockets in the colon, which can become inflamed and diseased, resulting in diverticulitis.
Bowel obstruction
In uncommon instances, severe constipation can cause a complete blockage of the bowel, which requires immediate medical attention.
When to see a Doctor for Constipation
Drinking more water, eating more fibre, exercising, and taking over-the-counter laxatives can help constipation.
If your constipation lasts more than a few days or is accompanied by severe stomach discomfort, blood in your stool, or vomiting, consult a doctor.
When to make a doctor's appointment:
Three days without a bowel movement.
Bowel motions hurt.
Hard, dry stools are hard to pass.
Blood appears in your stool or toilet paper after wiping.
You lose weight or appetite unexpectedly.
Ayurvedic Say on Constipation?
According to Ayurveda, constipation indicates impaired digestion and elimination. Constipation is considered a primary cause of numerous diseases because the accumulation of impurities in the body due to constipation can result in a variety of health issues.
Ayurvedic treatments for constipation include dietary modifications, herbal remedies, and adjustments in lifestyle. Examples include:
- A high-fiber diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole cereals.
- Morning consumption of tepid water with citrus to stimulate digestion.
- Herbs and seasonings such as Triphala, ginger, and fennel can aid digestion and relieve constipation when consumed.
- Yoga positions that stimulate digestion and promote elimination, such as the spinal twist and forward fold, should be practised.
- Avoiding processed, fried, and dairy foods, which can aggravate Vata dosha and cause constipation.
Importantly, if you have chronic constipation or if your constipation is accompanied by other symptoms, you should consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ayurvedic Remedies For Constipation
Ayurveda provides numerous treatments for constipation. Here are some helpful Ayurvedic remedies:
Castor Oil
Castor oil is an additional Ayurvedic remedy for constipation. It functions as a natural laxative and promotes bowel movements. Castor oil can be consumed orally or applied to the abdomen topically.
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk is a natural fibre that can facilitate gastrointestinal movements and alleviate constipation. It is available as a powder that can be mixed with water or beverage.
Ginger
Ginger is a natural digestive aid that can ease constipation. It can be ingested as a supplement or in tea.
Fennel
Fennel is an additional digestive aid that can relieve constipation. It can be ingested as a supplement or in tea.
Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
Haritaki is a potent herb used in Ayurveda for various digestive issues. It has mild laxative properties and supports regular bowel movements. It is often used as an ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations for constipation.
Recommended Ayurvedic Herbs and Medication for Constipation
Ayurveda offers several remedies for constipation and good bowel motions. Ayurvedic constipation remedies include:
01. Triphala Churna
Three fruits—Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)—make up triphala. Powdered triphala is called churna. It aids digestion, bowel motions, and constipation.
02. Avipattikar Churna
Ayurvedic avipattikar churna comprises Triphala, Long Pepper (Pippali), and Indian Senna (Sonnathu). It aids digestion, doshas, and constipation.
03. Sat Isabgol
Sat Isabgol (psyllium husk) is a natural fibre supplement used to treat constipation. It softens faeces, absorbs water in the intestines, and improves regularity.
04. Abhayarishta
Ayurvedic herbal tonic Abhayarishta includes Haritaki (Terminalia chebula), Vidanga (Embelia ribes), and Musta (Cyperus rotundus). It aids digestion, constipation, and gastrointestinal health.
05. Erandbhrisht Haritaki
Erandbhrisht Haritaki contains castor oil and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula). Laxative characteristics ease constipation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Home remedies and lifestyle changes may cure constipation. Some approaches:
Fibre: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Fibre bulks stool and improves regularity. To avoid bloating and gas, add fibre gradually.
Hydrate: Drink water throughout the day. Hydration makes faeces easier to pass.
Regular exercise promotes digestion and bowel motions. Walking or jogging may help.
Set a daily toilet schedule, ideally after meals. This might teach your body to poop regularly.
Consider natural laxatives. Prunes, figs, flaxseeds, and aloe vera juice ease constipation.
Herbal drinks including peppermint, ginger, and dandelion root tea help encourage bowel motions.
Relax: Stress may cause constipation. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga relieve stress and improve digestion.
Avoid postponing bowel movements: Respond quickly to bowel movements. Delaying might make faeces tougher to pass.