There is no such person who has not experienced all the “delights” of constipation at least once in his life. A feeling of heaviness in the intestines and pain in the lower abdomen create constant discomfort. Sometimes it begins to feel like it’s bursting from the inside.
Feces accumulated in the intestines, which did not find a way out in time, tend to harden. The longer a person endures this condition, the harder it is to go to the toilet in the future. Everyone who is affected by this problem is wondering how to quickly empty their bowels if they are constipated. And if difficulties with defecation are constant, it is simply necessary to look for a way out. Otherwise, chronic constipation will seriously ruin your life.
How to effectively cleanse the intestines without harming the body? Give preference to folk remedies or trust the achievements of modern medicine? Is it true that some drugs are addictive, and what should you take to avoid making the situation worse? Let's talk.
Distended bowel symptoms
In the gastrointestinal tract system, the intestine plays one of the most important roles: it is responsible for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, in other words, it is a kind of bio-filter for our body. Symptoms characteristic of intestinal diseases can affect the functioning of the entire digestive system. And pathological conditions can be caused by various factors, for example, hormonal disorders, congenital hereditary background, inflammatory or infectious processes. What symptoms indicate problems with the intestines - in the material of Passion.ru and gastroenterologist Khanika Abdulaeva.
Abdominal pain
The very first and most significant symptom by which you can determine that you have problems with the intestines and be sure to consult a doctor. In this way, exacerbations of chronic or acute intestinal pathologies may occur.
Bright, intense, nagging pain localized in the lower abdomen may indicate problems in the small intestine. Paroxysmal, radiating to the side - left or right - indicate functional disorders in the large intestine.
Pain syndrome can be observed with intestinal dysbiosis - a condition in which the presence of beneficial bacteria and pathogenic organisms in it is unbalanced. The composition of the intestinal flora can change due to qualitative changes in nutrition, antibacterial therapy, hormonal changes and provoke disturbances in the functioning of other organs of the gastrointestinal tract.
Abdominal pain can also be felt with other diseases: with irritable bowel syndrome, as well as with colitis, enteritis, cholecystitis.
If the pain is severe, call an ambulance. If acute surgical pathology is excluded, a visit to a gastroenterologist is required for examination and treatment.
Flatulence
This is increased gas formation, which is subjectively expressed by colic, bloating and excessive release of gases. Normally, in a healthy person, the gastrointestinal tract contains no more than 200-300 ml of gases, which can enter the body when swallowing air, for example, with eating or smoking. Much more problematic is the situation when the formation of gases in the intestines is excessive due to bacterial overgrowth syndrome, when eating poor-quality food or foods that cause fermentation.
If bloating is not a frequent occurrence, then as first aid it is enough to take a carminative (for example, espumisan) or any sorbent that will help neutralize toxins and pathogenic flora in the intestines (enterosgel, smecta), as well as drugs that relieve spasms (the most famous is this is no-shpa). It is necessary to avoid eating foods that can serve as a potential provocateur of such symptoms: fermented milk products, carbonated drinks, vegetables and fruits - cabbage, tomatoes, peas, radishes, mushrooms, grapes.
At the same time, remember that flatulence may indicate serious diseases of the intestines and abdominal organs: gastroduodenitis, pancreatitis, cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction, which can only be accurately diagnosed in a medical institution.
Constipation
This is a stool disorder that is characterized by irregularity (less than 3 times a week), as well as a dense consistency that requires excessive straining. A very common problem that can be caused by a number of reasons: poor lifestyle, diet, stress and specific drug therapy (taking antibiotics, for example), as well as age-related changes (in the elderly), hormonal imbalance (in pregnant women), in children - with the introduction of complementary foods, due to a poorly developed digestive system, etc.
You can try to eliminate isolated cases of violation or absence of bowel movements on your own if you review your diet to include the right foods. If you experience regular constipation, you should use laxatives, which should be prescribed by a doctor. Independent and uncontrolled use of laxatives (especially irritating ones) can lead to undesirable effects and deterioration of well-being.
Diarrhea
A violation of the frequency of stool can be manifested not only by its retention, but also, on the contrary, by a frequent urge to defecate and a liquid consistency. Such a symptom may be a manifestation of impaired intestinal motility, as a consequence of poor nutrition or a stress factor; this symptom may also be a manifestation of serious inflammatory diseases in the intestines (both infectious and non-infectious in nature). Diarrhea may accompany cholecystitis and pancreatitis.
Diarrhea mixed with blood is a very dangerous symptom that requires immediate medical attention and examination. Along with severe painful cramps, possibly with vomiting, flatulence, this may indicate intestinal obstruction - a disease in which a blockage occurs. It may occur due to inflammation, internal bleeding, tumor diseases, formation of nodes, etc.
Diarrhea of any etiology is a reason to consult a doctor.
Bleeding
Blood or mucus in the stool can indicate a variety of intestinal diseases: from hemorrhoids, rectal fissures to polyps, Crohn's disease and colorectal cancer. Although the nature and color of the discharge can suggest what clinical manifestations we are dealing with. Bleeding may be profuse or not profuse, with inclusions, purulent impurities, clots, and their color may also differ - bright, scarlet or dark. In addition, it may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, burning or itching.
Such symptoms are extremely dangerous, cannot be treated independently and require immediate consultation with a proctologist and further treatment, often in a hospital setting.
If measures are not taken in time, the disease can enter the chronic phase, when disturbances in the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients can be permanent and gradually lead to complications: the formation of ulcers, abscesses, organ deformation, etc.
Lazy bowel training is the best way to combat constipation
Sluggish intestines are a gastroenterological disease accompanied by a decrease in the muscle tone of the patient’s intestines.
The role of these muscles in human life is quite large, because they move the food consumed, and then are responsible for the movement of feces in the body. If muscle tone is reduced, then feces begin to accumulate in the intestines, causing the body to be poisoned by harmful chemical compounds . Most often, this disease occurs in older people, but young patients also suffer from gastroenterological pathology.
Sluggish bowel - symptoms and treatment
Organ Anatomy
The intestine is the tubular visceral part of the digestive system that extends from the outlet end of the stomach to the anus. It is located in the abdominal cavity and its function is to digest and absorb food. In mammals and humans it is divided into two segments.
Small intestine
It extends from the outlet of the stomach to the ileocecal valve, which separates it from the colon, adding about 7–8 meters between them.
This part of the organ is divided into the duodenum, jejunum and ileum, which are the areas of the digestive system where food is absorbed after special enzymatic processing and passes into the bloodstream.
This absorption occurs through the so-called intestinal villi, which are small extensions of the organ's mucous membrane.
Colon
Provides a channel for eliminating unabsorbed products. It is divided into the blind ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, rectum and anus. Feces and water accumulate in this organ, which allows them to be properly eliminated.
Traditional recipes for constipation
- You need to take 2 tsp. dried flax seed in the morning before breakfast to provide the body with plenty of fiber.
- Take 8 tbsp.
spoons of stewed peeled apples, 80 milligrams of prune juice and 8 tsp. bran Mix all this and take two to three tablespoons every day after lunch with a glass of water. Store in the refrigerator for no more than 3 weeks. - Take 100 grams of dried apricots, raisins and prunes and grind them in a blender.
Add 1 tbsp. hay and natural honey. Mix the composition and take in the morning before breakfast (10 grams each). - Pour boiling water (250 ml) over about 10-20 grams of ordinary plantain seeds and leave for 25 to 30 minutes. First 2 tbsp. spoons should be taken on an empty stomach, and then 1 tbsp. twenty minutes before each meal. Shake before use.
- Pour 250 ml of crushed buckthorn bark (10 grams). water and boil for about 20 minutes. Take the strained infusion according to? a glass early in the morning and at 10-11 pm before bed.
- Remove thorns from aloe leaves (2-3 pieces), then crush them and add to melted honey (300 grams).
Let it sit for 24 hours and reheat again. Take 2 hours before meals.
If all of the above methods do not help within 2-3 weeks, then you should consult a gastroenterologist.
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Symptoms of the disease
When lazy bowel syndrome develops, the process of excreting feces is disrupted. The constant presence of stool gives a feeling of fullness even after defecation. Signs of the disease include:
- Heaviness in the abdomen, bloating, cramps.
- Painful discomfort in the lower back.
- Nausea, as if poisoned.
- Headache.
- Bad breath, often in the morning, due to gas that remains in the intestines.
- Hemorrhoids from straining while trying to stool.
Taking medications
Medications from the group of prokinetics will help increase the contractile activity of the stomach and speed up its emptying. The doctor may prescribe Metoclopramide, Domperidone, Erythromycin. Metoclopramide inhibits serotonin receptors, which promote relaxation of smooth muscle tissue, while stimulating serotonin receptors, which enhance contraction of muscle fibers.
Therefore, it restores the tone of the smooth muscles of the hollow organs of the digestive tract, increases the duration of peristalsis of the antrum of the stomach and duodenum, does not allow gastric emptying to slow down, increases the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter, increases the pressure in the gallbladder and the rate of bile secretion, and relieves spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
Metoclopramide is the active ingredient in the following drugs:
Causes of the syndrome
An unbalanced diet negatively affects intestinal function. Lack of fiber in food slows down the process of evacuation of feces, which causes its obstruction. Lack of fluids and clean water can also contribute to impaired motility and constipation.
There are other reasons as a result of which the intestines cannot work on their own:
- Inflammation and tumors that develop in the colon or rectum.
- Hypo- and hyperthyroidism.
- Imbalance of hormones in the body.
- Lack of sufficient physical activity.
- Passive lifestyle.
- Constipation (irregular bowel movements when there is no bowel movement for more than 24 hours).
- Refusal to treat concomitant diseases.
Diagnostics
The signs of gastroparesis resemble the symptoms of many other diseases, so a careful differential (comparative) diagnosis is required. Manifestations of weakened gastric function coincide with the clinical picture of peptic ulcer, malignant tumor, myocardial infarction and other disorders.
Source: https://gb4miass74.ru/zabolevaniya/kak-zastavit-kishechnik-rabotat.html
Treatment of the colon: the final chord of the digestive process
The large intestine is the final link in the long process of digesting food, providing the body with necessary substances and microelements, protecting against poisoning by toxins of internal organs. Treatment of the colon, like any human organ, requires an individual approach from a gastroenterologist.
Why do disorders in the digestive tract begin, what symptoms accompany this, how to properly treat various diseases of the large intestine? The answers to these questions are provided in this article.
Exercises
Food must move through the digestive tract. This process occurs much easier and faster if the person also does not lie still. Even a 15-minute walk after eating will help this process. Therefore, if you feel sleepy after lunch, you should not give in to it. It's better to go outside and walk around the neighborhood or just wash the dishes for the whole family. This will help avoid many digestive problems, including constipation.
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Location and structure of the large intestine
The complete tract of the large intestine is divided into the abdominal cavity and the pelvic region.
The organ consists of six intestinal sections - rectum, sigmoid colon, descending colon, transverse colon, ascending colon and cecum.
The length of the large intestine is 0.8-1.4 m, depending on gender differences and the age of the patient. The average diameter ranges from 4.5-8.2 cm.
The main difference from the small intestine is determined by:
- The presence of longitudinal muscles in the intestinal walls.
- Bulging of the walls.
- Fatty appendages.
- Gray color.
- Increased diameter.
The role of the large intestine in human health
Good microflora in the intestines is necessary to destroy harmful bacteria, stop rotting, and allow the body to obtain the necessary amino acids, vitamins and microelements from the incoming food. At the final stage of digestion, residual digestion of food, absorption of residual water and salt solutions, and removal of human waste occur. The main result of complex biochemical processes is the creation and maintenance of strong immunity.
The integrity of the mucous membrane, good peristalsis (muscle contractions) and maintaining the balance of the colon microflora are the main things in the prevention and treatment of the disease. Regular body care is important not only on the outside. Internal general cleaning will help to avoid the appearance of cancerous tumors, heart problems, kidney diseases, liver diseases, allergies, asthma, and arthritis. Digestive problems are the cause of the development of 72 diseases in patients.
The onset of the disease is accompanied by specific symptoms.
Syrup
One tablespoon of black molasses at night will bring relief from a delicate problem. The molasses is very concentrated, the result of prolonged boiling. It contains vitamins and minerals that have a positive effect on intestinal health. In particular, magnesium, which is part of molasses, helps relieve constipation.
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General symptoms of the disease
Constipation, diarrhea
If a person has stool (defecation) once a day, there is no reason to worry. If this happens once every 3 days or more, or vice versa 2-3 times a day, we can talk about a violation of the intestinal evacuation ability, possibly the development of hypomotor dyskinesia. In this case, the processes of absorption of nutrients and digestion do not work 100%. An additional reason may be diseases of other digestive organs, whose work must be performed by the large intestine.
Pain, bleeding during bowel movements
The presence of constant pain indicates the development of inflammation. Ignoring this signal and lack of treatment leads to colon cancer. If you eat low-quality food, food is quickly eliminated without digestion. You should also be alarmed by a constant feeling of expansion in the abdomen, increased gas production, and rumbling.
The appearance of blood discharge during bowel movements indicates internal bleeding, possibly due to a rupture of the colon, and their color indicates an arterial or venous origin.
This is a serious reason for an endoscopic examination of the digestive system.
Anemia
Anemia occurs in the case of constant or acute bleeding from internal organs. With intestinal cancer, anemia occurs due to chronic blood loss and disruption of the formation of blood cells - platelets, leukocytes, erythrocytes.
Do you pay attention to intestinal activity?
A person's health can be judged by how his intestines work. This opinion was held by the father of medicine, Hippocrates, and the healers of Ancient China. And in our century, doctors talk about the importance of maintaining intestinal health.
The body's natural function is to eliminate toxins. Everything that is not digested in our body should be released freely. The lifestyle of a modern person does not contribute to the active functioning of the intestines. The ratio “number of meals - emptying” is 5:0. A sluggish intestine cannot cope with its evacuation function, as a result of which toxins enter back into the body, poisoning other organs through the bloodstream.
Irregular or incomplete colon cleansing is called lazy bowel syndrome. The stool becomes hard, dry, and resembles small pebbles. At the same time, a person feels dry mouth, heaviness in the stomach, and loss of strength. Doctors are unanimous in their opinion that going to the toilet less than once every three days is constipation. With overall health in mind, take this signal immediately and come up with a plan of action.
Almost 24% of the adult population complains of difficulties with bowel movements and related problems.
Lazy bowel syndrome - video
Types of diseases, causes, methods of treatment
Crohn's disease
An inflammatory bowel disease that can affect the entire digestive tract, from the esophagus to the rectum, is called Crohn's disease. The causes of the disease are not fully understood; the main factors are considered to be infection and disruption of the behavior of autoimmune (protective) cells.
The disease affects all layers of the intestine and the blood vessels passing nearby.
- Frequent diarrhea, feeling of fullness in the abdomen, flatulence.
- Sharp acute pain accompanied by intestinal obstruction.
- Feverish state at high temperature with the formation of fistulas in the anal area.
In the absence of treatment, metabolism is disrupted, heart pathology, anemia, and osteoporosis develop. Against the background of a deficiency of microelements, vitamins, and electrolytes, the body becomes depleted. The result of advanced disease is impaired joint strength, skin rashes, ulcers, and visual defects.
In the treatment of Crohn's disease, hormonal drugs are used, exacerbations are smoothed out with the help of antibiotics. To exclude recurrences of the diagnosis, drugs of the sulfa group are used. During treatment, alcohol, spices, and foods with fiber are completely eliminated, and the amount of fat and milk products is reduced. It is recommended to use grated food, high-calorie protein foods, and porridge with water.
Ulcerative colitis
A chronic disease of the large intestine with dysfunction of the mucous membrane is called ulcerative colitis. As a result of the disease, bleeding from the mucous membrane begins. With a prolonged process, the growth of tumors and polyps is possible.
- Frequent changes of constipation and diarrhea.
- Weight loss, deterioration in health.
- Bleeding from the anus.
In the treatment of ulcerative colitis, drug therapy is combined with diet. In case of exacerbation, the patient takes hormonal drugs. A long course of sulfonyl drugs is required for complete recovery. The diet is limited to irritating foods and coarse fiber. Dairy products are completely excluded.
Ischemic colitis
During damage to the mucous membrane of the large intestine, caused by damage to the vessels of the intestinal walls, ischemic colitis occurs. The consequence of the inflammatory process is the destruction of the mucous membrane. Atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, thrombophlebitis provoke these changes.
- Traces of blood in stool.
- Delayed pain in the left side of the abdomen after eating.
- The occurrence of bleeding.
- Anemia, loss of appetite and weight.
When the disease is advanced, intestinal necrosis occurs. In this case, surgery is necessary. In the early stages, antibiotics and analgesics are prescribed; during treatment, drugs are used to improve capillary conductivity and blood circulation. To consolidate the results of treatment, vitamins, probiotics, and glandular preparations are taken.
In nutrition, general recommendations are used in the treatment of the intestines, aimed at eliminating diarrhea, constipation, and reducing muscle tone.
Stretching of the colon wall
Stretching of the intestinal wall with protrusion into the peritoneum is called a diverticulum, which is formed when the muscle tone of the intestinal walls is disturbed. The result of the disorders manifests itself in the form of constipation, feelings of heaviness, with the transition to diverticulitis - an inflammatory process.
- Heat.
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea with traces of blood.
Without treatment, the disease progresses towards complete disruption of the tone of the intestinal walls. In the initial stage of the disease, antibiotics are used; at the final stage, beneficial microflora is introduced into the intestines. For chronic cases and for prevention, enzymes and sulfonyl drugs are used. If the disease develops rapidly, surgical intervention is necessary.
Irritable bowel syndrome
Spasmodic bowel, dyskinesia, mucous colitis belongs to one class of disease - irritable bowel syndrome. The disease may accompany the underlying disease, or be an independent disease, such as dysfunction of motor activity. Changes in intestinal motility are affected by a small amount of fiber in food, food allergies, stress, and intestinal infections.
- Constipation, diarrhea, rumbling in the stomach.
- Lack of effect after changing diet.
- False cardiac, joint, spinal pain.
Diagnostics
If constipation is characterized as chronic and accompanied by unpleasant symptoms, consult a specialist for a thorough diagnosis.
The simplest diagnostic methods are palpation and percussion. The doctor taps and palpates the abdomen with his fingers. The method provides information about the filling of the intestines with gases or liquids, and the localization of pain.
Laboratory tests (complete blood count, coprogram, feces for occult blood) will give the attending physician a complete picture of the state of the body, help to more clearly identify the problem and refute possible suspicions of pathologies.
Ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity is a visual diagnostic method and is included in the intestinal examination program.
X-ray examinations of the large and small intestines are performed before colonoscopy. Irrigoscopy involves the use of a contrast enema and requires special preparation of the patient. A barium solution is injected through an enema to ensure uniform and tight filling of the organ being examined. Irrigoscopy gives an idea of changes in the mucous membrane, relief and motor activity of the intestine.
Colonoscopy is a modern procedure for examining the colon. A tube with a camera at the end is inserted into the patient through the anus, and an image of the internal walls of the intestine is transmitted to the screen. Doctors recommend that all people over 50 years of age be examined to detect the presence of polyps, ulcers and tumors in the early stages.
Traditional treatment of colon diseases
Due to the great importance of nutrition in the treatment of the disease, the use of traditional recipes helps improve the condition of patients at the initial stage of the disease. The main tasks of eliminating diarrhea, constipation, relieving inflammation, and improving motor skills are solved by using traditional medicinal recipes.
In the treatment of colitis associated with inflammation of the mucous membrane, oat infusion obtained by boiling oatmeal in water, as well as drinking raspberry infusion before meals, helps well.
To remove worms and infections, enemas from garlic infusion are used, with the use of onions after the procedure. Ingestion of brewed wormwood helps prevent pinworms.
An effective remedy for getting rid of dysbacteriosis is to use propolis tincture and cinquefoil herb. Oak bark tea helps stop diarrhea.
Disorders associated with constipation are treated by consuming a mixture of prunes, figs and dried apricots. Melissa and ginger root, brewed in boiling water, help get rid of flatulence. For intestinal spasms, a mixture of valerian root and fennel fruit works well.
Important! Before using folk remedies, you should discuss the dosage and frequency of their use with your doctor.
Correcting your diet is one of the main steps in treating colon diseases. For a long period of time, it is necessary to reduce the amount of meat and exclude white bread from the diet. An excellent effect comes from daily consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs, seafood, fish, and dairy products.
Healthy fats
To make feces pass through the intestines easier and faster, they can be provided with additional lubrication in the form of healthy fats. There are a lot of them in olive oil, nuts and avocados. But it is not necessary to consume these products pure. You can prepare delicious and healthy dishes. An example of this would be a salad of fiber-rich leafy greens, dressed with olive oil, and a small handful of nuts. A tablespoon of natural nut butter with fruit and toast would also be a tasty treat. This remedy will be useful even for those who are watching their weight, because healthy fats are necessary for the body. In addition, they are very filling, which helps you feel hungry much later.
Prevention
Like all diseases of the digestive system, diseases of the colon can and should be prevented. Establishing a doctor-recommended diet with good quality foods and consuming moderate quantities is one of the main conditions for preventing the disease.
The beneficial effects of constant physical activity to improve blood circulation and enhance intestinal motility have long been proven.
The third main rule is to change your lifestyle and give up bad habits. Remember, it is better for healthy people to sunbathe on the beach, or at least under the lamps in a solarium, than for sick people under operating lamps in a surgical ward.
Work experience more than 7 years.
Professional skills: diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and biliary system.
Prunes
Dried plums contain a lot of fiber, which helps normalize digestion. Three pieces of prunes contain approximately 3 g of plant fiber and beneficial compounds that cause intestinal contractions. This makes a person want to go to the toilet faster. Figs can be called an equally useful dried fruit. It contains not only everything that prunes contain, but also small seeds that help quickly cleanse the intestines of harmful toxins.
Intestinal motility: problem solving
Any failure of the digestive system can lead to the development of serious diseases of other organs. At the same time, immunity decreases and the general condition of the body worsens. That is why, to get rid of a wide variety of diseases, many experts recommend immediately changing your eating habits and following a diet.
The condition of the digestive tract itself directly depends on intestinal motility. Any of its violations, called dyskinesia, lead to unpleasant consequences, which will be described in detail below. At the same time, they can be easily eliminated, thereby restoring the normal functioning of the digestive system.
Determination of intestinal motility
What is intestinal peristalsis? Have you ever wondered what happens in the body with any food a person eats? First, it enters the stomach, where it is digested using hydrochloric acid produced by the mucous membrane and turns into the so-called food bolus. At the last stage, this same lump moves into the rectum through wave-like contractions of the intestine.
It is these movements that are called peristalsis. In the walls of the intestine there are smooth muscles located in two layers, perpendicular to each other. Their coordinated contractions form a “wave” that brings the food bolus to the anus. The speed of its movement can be completely different depending on the circumstances. For example, along the small intestine the lump moves either very slowly, or, on the contrary, very quickly. This mainly depends on the characteristics of the food consumed. In the colon, wave-like contractions slow down, but powerful movements occur several times during the day, which help move the lump towards the outlet.
Peristalsis occurs immediately after any food enters the gastrointestinal tract. The frequency of smooth muscle contractions depends on the specific part of the intestine and can be:
- up to 3 within a minute in the rectum;
- 3 or 4 contractions per minute in the large intestine;
- 9-10 in the small intestine;
- about ten contractions in the duodenum.
When smooth muscle function slows down, serious problems with bowel movements (constipation) arise, and metabolism also deteriorates. Because of this, the entire body suffers. First, weakness and a feeling of constant fatigue appear, and then any diseases of the digestive tract and other organs may develop.
An effective way to check
There is one way to check the condition of your intestines:
To do this, take 1-2 tbsp. spoons of infused beet juice. And if the urine turns beet-colored, this means that the intestines and liver are not performing their detoxification functions well. This means: toxins (decomposition products) enter the bloodstream and kidneys, poisoning the body as a whole.
The attached video explains very clearly how to check the intestines:
About a third of the population nowadays consults doctors with complaints of heartburn, a feeling of squeezing or pain in the epigastric region. Feeling unwell is not news, but a pattern that we must remember for the sake of our health. Diet is almost the main factor that allows you to be healthy, cheerful and cheerful.
Optimizing your entire lifestyle depends on proper digestion, and these are not empty words. Recently, scientists conducted research and discovered a pattern between what we eat and our overall mental state. It turned out that the state of the bacterial flora affects the chemical processes occurring in the brain. Therefore, in a literal sense, we can say that we eat what we think, and we think what we eat.
Food digested by the stomach has a direct effect on consciousness. The digestive tract is a rather complex system, each organ of which interacts with others. And for the intestines to feel great, the work of the stomach, duodenum, and pancreas, which produces enzymes for digestion, must be harmonious.
How to recognize slow intestinal motility?
Improper functioning of intestinal smooth muscles can be identified by a number of signs. The most important of them include:
- pain in the lower abdomen. They may resemble contractions (women will understand), or they may be mildly aching in nature. The bolus of food begins to decompose, which leads to the formation of gases. They can prevent a person from falling asleep and cause serious discomfort. The pain is felt especially acutely after eating, as well as after drinking drinks containing caffeine;
- constipation already mentioned above, which can only be gotten rid of with the use of special laxatives or enemas. If treatment is not started in a timely manner, after some time the intestines will generally stop emptying on their own;
- bloating, which is a consequence of increased gas formation;
- the appearance of problems with excess weight;
- intoxication of the body. The food bolus quickly decomposes, releasing toxic substances that lead to poisoning. At the same time, the person begins to suffer from severe allergic reactions, the oiliness of the hair sharply increases, and the condition of the skin worsens;
- deterioration of the general condition of the body. It is expressed in sleep disturbances, lethargy and apathy, a person begins to rage with or without reason.
Treatment of pathology
In order for the intestines to start working on their own, doctors recommend a combined approach to treatment.
Typically, specialists prescribe:
- Taking medications.
- Dieting.
- Daily exercise.
- Therapy with folk remedies.
Traditional medicine
Drug treatment in adults includes laxatives and enzyme medications. A drug that has a laxative effect cannot be taken for a long time, so this medicine is prescribed only as a last resort when it is necessary to enhance peristalsis.
Usually the drugs begin to act after 4-5 hours, but they have a short-term effect.
- Laxative for oral administration - Duphalac, Forlax, Magnesia.
- Rectal suppositories based on glycerin. This treatment may be prescribed to a limited number of people. Candles are prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The most popular enzymes are Mezim, Festal, and Pancreatin. These drugs help improve intestinal motility even in chronic gastrointestinal diseases. Most of them affect the pancreas, which helps eliminate belching and reduce gas formation.
When wondering how to cure a pathology, doctors can often recommend taking certain vitamins. Daily consumption of magnesium and vitamin C (about 450-500 mg) helps to cope with constipation.
It is best to prepare vitamin complexes yourself; for this you need various dried fruits, honey and flax seed.
The benefits of proper nutrition
It is not possible to completely get rid of the problem with medication.
To achieve maximum effect, you need to reconsider your diet. It is imperative to include products containing coarse fibers that are not digested by the body and thereby cleanse the intestines and remove harmful substances.
This component contains fresh vegetables and fruits, berries, wholemeal bread, bran, and cereals.
In addition to these foods, you need to drink plenty of fluids. The daily menu should include at least 1-2 liters of water, taking into account all the products consumed.
If not enough fluid enters the body, then the coarse fibers cannot swell and cleanse the gastrointestinal tract.
Why does intestinal motility slow down?
Before treating any disease, you need to get to the bottom of the causes of its occurrence. The same applies to problems with peristalsis. Too slow contraction of intestinal smooth muscle may occur in the following cases:
- sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, which allows
- constantly maintain muscle tone;
- consumption of foods that are high in calories. They are much less digestible, which slows down the progress of the food bolus;
- any chronic diseases of the digestive tract;
- age-related changes in the body;
- genetic predisposition to intestinal diseases;
- both benign and malignant neoplasms;
- consequences of surgery.
Regardless of why you have problems with smooth muscle contraction, the first step is to change your eating habits. Without a balanced diet, it is not possible to accelerate peristalsis. Over time, toxic substances can penetrate into other organs, causing serious intoxication. In addition, fecal stones appear in the intestinal cavity, which damage the walls and muscles, leading to cracks and bleeding.
Metabolic deterioration is also a serious problem. It entails changes in hormonal levels, causing exacerbation and rapid development of any chronic diseases.
Features of the course of pathology in childhood
In children, the disease manifests itself in the same way as in adults. But the reasons are mainly due to poor nutrition or are psychological in nature.
In an infant, the disease can be caused by poor nutrition of the mother; in older children, problems arise due to an unbalanced diet or enzyme deficiency.
The psychological aspect may be that it is difficult for a child to go to the toilet in an unfamiliar environment. Or difficulties may be associated with experiences during the period of weaning from the potty.
In a child, it is necessary to treat pathology with medications only as a last resort. Changes in diet, introducing physical activity, improving the emotional background, and massaging the abdomen usually help.
Accelerating intestinal motility: drug treatment
Any medications listed below can only be used after consulting a doctor. Otherwise, there is a risk of causing irreversible damage to both the intestines and the entire digestive tract.
To speed up peristalsis, the doctor may prescribe several types of medications, which we will discuss in detail below.
Medicines that increase muscle tone
These include drugs such as Prozerin or Vasopressin. They are prescribed to improve motor skills. As a result, the rate of contraction of smooth muscles increases, which contributes to the normal removal of the food bolus from the body.
These medications are developed for different parts of the intestine and are divided into several groups:
- drugs for the small intestine, the most common of which is castor oil. It not only improves motility, but also softens stool, due to which their elimination is significantly accelerated;
- drugs for the large intestine. Strengthens smooth muscle tone to improve gastrointestinal function. An example is buckthorn bark and other medicines of natural origin;
- Guttalax and other synthetic drugs. They must be taken with extreme caution. The thing is that such drugs are addictive. After a long period of use, the patient simply cannot empty his bowels on his own.
There are also laxative medications that have a beneficial effect on all parts of the intestine simultaneously. These include preparations based on senna leaves, as well as some synthetic products. You should drink them only as prescribed by your doctor.
Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are an excellent home remedy for constipation. They contain a lot of natural oils that moisturize the intestinal walls. It is this property of sesame that helps fight dry stool. You don't have to eat the seeds with a spoon. You can simply add them to a salad or porridge for a nice crunch, or grind them in a coffee grinder and use them as a seasoning. In any case, the product will work.
Foods that improve peristalsis
As mentioned above, to accelerate the wave-like contractions of smooth muscles, you need to completely change your eating habits. It is best to completely exclude from the menu or significantly limit the consumption of fatty, salty and smoked foods, and avoid drinks with a high caffeine content. The following products have a beneficial effect on peristalsis:
- dried fruits. Figs, dried apricots, prunes and others should be in your daily menu;
- fermented milk products – kefir, fermented baked milk, high-quality yoghurts;
- freshly squeezed juices of cabbage, carrots, potatoes;
- fresh vegetables and fruits;
- flax seeds, all types of nuts, sprouted cereals;
- porridge. To prepare them you need to use buckwheat, oatmeal and millet. Semolina and rice should be excluded from the diet for a while, as they “strengthen” the stomach;
- lean meat with the addition of plenty of vegetables.
In addition, you need to drink at least 2 liters of water throughout the day. Avoid carbonated drinks completely. You should not remove hot and spicy dishes from the menu, as they stimulate the intestines.
It is better to exclude eggs in any form, pomegranates, pastries, potatoes, strong black tea altogether. The thing is that these products slow down peristalsis and can create serious problems with bowel movements.
In case of intestinal diseases, it is highly advisable to completely avoid foods containing sugar. The thing is that it enhances putrefactive processes in the digestive tract and often turns out to be the main cause of intoxication. We recommend replacing it with fresh vegetables and fruits or natural sweeteners.
An excellent solution to the problem of bowel movements is fractional meals. Food should be taken in small portions 5-6 times a day. By following this regimen, you can get rid of a wide variety of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
In no case should the urge to defecate be ignored, as this leads to a gradual relaxation of smooth muscles and often causes undesirable consequences.
Cellulose
Soluble and insoluble fiber have a positive effect on intestinal function. It cleans its walls of toxins and absorbs excess water. Fiber forms the basis of stool, which stimulates intestinal motility. You should consume 20-35 grams of fiber daily to maintain optimal health. The richest foods in plant fiber are cereals, beans, lentils, oatmeal, almonds, barley, various vegetables, fresh and dried fruits. All of the above can be excellent remedies for constipation. But we must not forget that fiber works great only in combination with water. Without this, the stool may become too dry and difficult to pass out of the body.
We supplement proper nutrition with physical activity
If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, you urgently need to increase physical activity. Start with light exercises in the morning, gradually introducing exercises such as “bicycle”, lifting and spreading your legs to the sides from a supine position. They increase muscle tone and have a beneficial effect on the entire digestive system.
Jogging, which can renew the body in a very short time, cycling or training on special exercise equipment, can also improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Remember that physical activity is one of the prerequisites for accelerating peristalsis. If you cannot exercise due to a simple lack of time, try to walk as much as possible.
Lemon water
Citric acid in natural juice acts as a stimulant for the digestive system and helps remove toxins from the body and relieves constipation. All you need to do is squeeze a little lemon juice into a glass of water or tea and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning. After a short period of time, it will become noticeable that this remedy not only eliminates constipation, but also combats the lack of fluid in the body. This has a positive effect not only on digestion, but also on health in general.
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