• Acumed Patches
• Pain relief
• Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Knee Pain
• Shoulder Pain
• Period Pain
• Arthritis
• Sleep
• Sports Injury
• Magnetic Therapy
• Site Map
• Body Map
• Contact
• Buy Now

• Sponsors

• Pain relief information from www.acumedpatches.com

Constipation

What is it?

Constipation is difficulty in passing motions, usually because they are too hard. Constipation may be diagnosed if you pass bowel motions less than twice a week, or if you have to strain to pass hard motions more than 25% of the time. Persistent constipation and straining at stool can also lead to a number of other problems including haemorrhoids, diverticular disease, anal fissures and even rectal prolapse which will in turn make constipation worse.

Advanced age, side effects of some medications (eg codeine phosphate, iron), bowel obstruction (eg bowel tumour, scar tissue) and abnormal masses (eg large fibroid or ovarian cyst) can also be a cause. If constipation is persistent, always seek medical advice.

Self help measures inculde:

• Ensure a good intake of fibre rich wholefoods such as brown bread, brown rice, wholegrain cereals, salads, fresh fruit and vegetables.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially mineral water, aiming for 2 to 3 litres of fluid intake per day.
• Take regular brisk exercise
• Do not put off visiting the bathroom when nature calls.

Effective remedies for Constipation

Psyllium seed/husks are a safe and effective remedy for constipation, increasing the frequency of bowel movements and making stools softer and easier to pass. A probiotic supplement supplying friendly digestive bacteria will help to maintain healthy bowels. Applying hot and cold compresses to your abdomen can help, especially if followed by an aromatherapy abdominal massage with diluted oil of Ginger (or if you prefer, use Lemon, Sandalwood, Mandarin, Orange, Grapefruit or Neroli). Massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction, starting on the lower left side.

Self Help Measures

Prunes and prune juice are especially helpful as the fruit are a good fibre source (13% weight for weight) while the juice has a laxative action boosted by the presence of an hydroxyphenylisatin derivative similar to the laxative drug, bisacodyl, which stimulates secretion of fluid into the bowels and also stimulates intestinal contraction. They may cause flatulence initially, but if eaten regularly this effect improves as bowel bacteria adapt to producing more of the enzymes needed to digest the fibre they contain. Applying magnetic patches Apply five magnetic patches in a semi circle or V shaped formation just below the navel. NB Do not use magnetic therapy on the abdomen during pregnancy.