Constipation & Diarrhoea

Definition:

Constipation - a condition in which bowel movements are infrequent, hard and dry, and elimination of feces is difficult and infrequent. Diarrhoea - frequent loose or liquid bowel movements.

Mr Stefan Chmelik on Constipation, diarrhoea (diarrhea)

Having a ‘normal’ bowel movement is pretty important, as the intestines are one of the main organs of detoxification, and also the largest immune system organ in the body. Normal means going once or twice a day at least, and up to three times for some people. The stool should be well formed, but not hard or too soft, and easy to pass. There should be no straining.

A great many people’s experience is quite different from this. Diet of course plays an important role here, and food education may be vital, but other factors are relevant as well. Irregular bowel movements (either too frequent or missed days) is caused by an imbalance in the organs of digestion, which in Chinese Medicine terms are the Intestines, Spleen, Stomach and Liver (also sometimes the Lungs). Problems with these organs can lead to the presence of dryness, dampness, heat, cold or stagnation, any of which can disrupt bowel function.

The system can be brought into balance, usually with great success, using acupuncture, diet, herbs, and massage or breathing exercises.

Dr Brian Kaplan on Constipation/Diarrhoea:

Orthodox Medicine: A cause of the condition must be identified if at all possible. Some cases suffering from both diarrhoea and constipation end up being diagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Homeopathy: has good results with cases of unexplained constipation and diarrhoea and many remedies are available to be used in these conditions depending on the exact set of symptoms.

Autogenics: If stress is a component, (esp. in diarrhoea) a course of Autogenic Therapy, a powerful relaxation technique can produce excellent results.