Causes of Constipation
Constipation is a common digestive problems that affects many people worldwide. Bowel movements can become infrequent, painful or both. It can make you feel discomfort to pain, bloated, gassy, irritated or weak. Some people will feel constipated when their diet or lifestyle changes perhaps when traveling or through a period of inactivity. Others can suffer with constipation post-surgery or during pregnancy.
The most common causes of constipation are not eating enough fibre, not drinking enough fluids, not moving around enough or ignoring the urge to go to the toilet for a bowel movement.
Foods such as refined grains, salty foods and allergens can also be linked to constipation. It is important to look at your diet and your daily routine and make sure you are eating well, drinking plenty of water and enjoying a physically active life.
Types of Constipation
The two main types of constipation as primary or functional and secondary constipation.
Primary constipation is due to problems that affect the functionality of the colon. If you have normal transit constipation then you will have difficult bowel movements, hard stools, bloating and tummy pain.
Secondary constipation can be due to medical conditions like Diabetes, Parkinson’s, MS, Dementia or thyroid problems etc. Medication like opioids, some anti-depressants or iron supplements. or lifestyle can also make you constipated. Dehydration is often a major cause of constipation so make sure you drink plenty or water. Lifestyle changes like eating more high fibre food and being active also really help alleviate the symptoms of constipation.
Slow transit constipation is rarer. Outlet constipation is a result of poor muscle function in the pelvis and Idiopathic constipation may need medication like laxatives. The most serious form of constipation is ‘obstructive constipation’ it is a sign that the constipation is chronic and it can leave to serious health side effects if left untreated.
Constipation during Pregnancy
The hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy can lead to constipation in pregnancy. Progesterone increases during pregnancy and this relaxes the bowels which means that they do not work as hard to squeeze out waste. The slow down allows the body more time to absorb nutrients but the waste can become dry resulting in a stool that is harder to expel resulting in constipation in pregnancy. In the third trimester the uterus becomes heavier and this can increase pressure on the bowel. Women are often prescribed iron supplements during pregnancy, ensure the one that you take is natural and high quality so that is easier to absorb.
Constipation after Surgery
After surgery you can feel constipated sometimes not having a bowel movement for a few days. This can be due to pain killers from the opiod family. It can also be caused by general anesthetic, the trauma of surgery and restricted activity. Help yourself by moving as soon as you are allowed to do so after surgery and limit the use of opioid drugs.
Laxatives
Laxatives can cause dehydration and imbalance in the electrolytes, they can deplete the body of valuable nutrients.
Treating Constipation at Home
If you want a natural remedy for constipation follow a high-fibre diet, increase the amount of fruit, vegetables and whole grains that you eat every day. Avoid processed foods. Drink more fluids especially plain water. Increasing activity.
Natural laxatives to ease your constipation are Aloe Vera and Senna which are both considered natural ways to help you tackle constipation but if you are on prescribed medication discuss their use with your medical prescriber first.
Best Homeopathic Remedies for Constipation
Bryonia
The Homeopathic medicine Bryonia is a natural remedy for constipation. If you feel worse for movement and you feel irritable and want to be on your own then this could be a helpful Homeopathic remedy for you to take. There will be a feeling of dryness and tearing pains.
Graphites
When you have constipation with large, difficult to pass stools then Graphites might be one of the best homeopathic remedies for your constipation. If you need this Homeopathic remedy you will be bloated and you will feel full in the stomach area.
Lycopodium
Lycopodium is a really good natural remedy for constipation. The Homeopathic medicine Lycopodium is good for constipation when there is a lot of gas, bloating and indigestion. Bowel movements will be hard to pass and you will feel better for warm food and drink and worse for tight clothing. You will be experiencing both constipation and with it gas.
Nux Vomica
Nux Vomica is a great Homeopathic remedy and natural remedy for constipation, when it is probably caused by overindulgence in rich or spicy food or alcohol. You will be suffering with a difficulty in passing a bowel movement and when you do pass a stool is will feel incomplete. You may feel irritated, stressed and impatient and feel worse in the morning. There will bloating, a sense of fullness and a bitter taste in the mouth, perhaps with heart burn.
Silicea
Try Silicea if you are not getting the urge to pass a stool or if you strain but it is ineffectual and you do not pass a bowel movement or if you do it is a small amount. You may feel cold in yourself and weak or anxious. Silicea can be one of the best homeopathic remedies for constipation.
Homeopathic remedies for constipation can be a great natural remedy for constipation and be really helpful at treating your symptoms and the underlying causes of your gut problems. I specialise in digestive disorders, my solution is the Gut Health Treatment Plan, it is suitable for people aged 12-65 who are seeking an alternative medicine for constipation and digestive problems. The Gut Health Treatment Plan includes 1-2-1 online consultations with me, Kiran, a qualified homeopath with 17 years of professional clinical experience, a bespoke plan for homeopathic remedies, a nourishment plan and regular check-in phone calls and email support.
Start by booking a low cost per-qualifying consultation to talk about an alternative medicine for gut health, homeopathic treatment with me and how homeopathy can address your symptoms and help reduce them naturally so that you feel healthier, balanced and well.
Once you begin a course on the Gut Health Treatment Plan you should start to notice improvements in your condition within a few weeks. Homeopathic treatment for anxiety usually lasts around 3 – 6 months. This will vary according to your symptoms, how long you have had them and the severity.
Get in touch to book your consultation with me and let’s work together using homeopathy treatment to naturally deal with your constipation and gut health problems.
