Home Remedies For Constipation - Alternatives, Laxatives And Lifestyle Shifts
Constipation RemediesHome remedies for constipation are the first choice for many and you will often be able to reverse the symptoms of constipation with some simple lifestyle changes or possibly the use of over-the-counter laxative or alternative treatments. Yet you want more than a simple list of cures, that is why this article shares exact steps to take to treat your constipation symptoms at home.
You will know that you have constipation if you have three or fewer bowel movements per week and your stool is dry and hard or causes you to strain when trying to go to the bathroom.
When To See Your Doctor For Constipation Symptoms
Home remedies for constipation often do the trick because the condition is typically a result of too little fluids and fiber in the diet but it can be a sign of an underlying condition. You will want to make an appointment to see your doctor if your constipation seems to be severe or persists for longer than three weeks. Also consult your doctor if you notice other symptoms associated with your constipation such as:
Severe abdominal pain or cramping
Blood in the stool
Constipation with intermittent diarrhea
Pain in the rectal area
Thin or narrow stool
Unexplained weight loss
Fever
List of Home Remedies for Constipation
Mild or infrequent bouts of constipation will typically respond well to these home remedies for constipation:
Following a high-fiber diet. Fiber is a type of food that moves through your digestive tract basically intact helping you go to the bathroom with more ease. Fiber is found in foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Limiting low-fiber foods. Some foods can make symptoms of constipation worse. You will want to limit your intake of cheese, meats and processed foods (i.e. boxed meals or packaged snacks) for a few days to see if symptoms subside.
Drinking plenty of water. You will want to aim for a minimum of 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. You can consume other beverages but you want to limit sugary drinks and sodas.
Getting enough exercise. Physical activity helps stimulate movement within your digestive tract. Aim to increase your physical activity with daily 10-15 minute walks or other low to moderate intensity activities.
Taking time to have a bowel movement when you need to. Do not try to rush or force a bowel movement. Allow yourself adequate time and if you have an urge to use the bathroom during the day, do not delay or try to hold it.
Over-The-Counter Laxatives For Constipation
Over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives are the next step if the above home remedies for constipation do not work. There are several types of OTC laxatives to choose from and I will warn you that some laxatives can become habit-forming so you may want to discuss what is right for you with your doctor. Here is a list of laxatives available:
Fiber supplements, also called bulk laxatives may be a good place to start because they have few side-effects and are generally considered safe to take. These would include FiberCon, Metamucil, Konsyl, Serutan and Citrucel. Take them with lots of water.
Stimulants are a type of laxative that causes stronger and more rhythmic contractions in the intestines. Examples include Correctol, Dulcolax or Senokot.
Lubricating Agents allow for a smoother passage of stool and examples include mineral oils and Fleet.
Stool Softeners provide the stool with more moisture so it is not as dry and hard making it easier to pass. You could choose from Colace or Surfac.
Osmotics are a type of laxative that bring fluids into the digestive tract to help stool move easily. Examples include Cephulac, Sorbitol and Miralax.
Saline laxatives also bring fluids into the digestive tract for easier movement of stool. Examples include Milk of Magnesia and Haley's M-O.
Alternative Remedies for Constipation
Alternative remedies for constipation have been successful for many people and may be worth a try or discuss these options with your doctor:
Acupuncture. Used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine, acupuncture has been shown to relieve many digestive conditions including constipation.
Traditional Massage. Massage may help relieve stress, relax muscles, and help stimulate bowel activity.
Homeopathic remedies. Holistic remedies have been used for years to treat constipation. Discuss herbs and other homeopathic remedies with your doctor.
Simple lifestyle changes, such as eating a high-fiber diet, getting regular physical activity, and drinking more water can often be enough to alleviating constipation. You can also try over-the-counter laxatives and alternative remedies for constipation relief.
I hope you find these home remedies for constipation helpful. If you have recurrent constipation problems you will want to take an active role in your health by learning all you can about Constipation including how it is diagnosed and medical treatments.
You can read more about this condition and use a free tool that walks you through your symptoms and leads you to an online diagnosis. Prepare yourself before your doctor's visit and figure out what your symptoms mean using this Medical Symptom Diagnosis Tool.