Diarrhea & Constipation Remedies

Constipation in pregnancy

Jane — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 11:23:26 +0000

Constipation in pregnancy is particularly common and is experienced by almost all women. The main cause of constipation is increased progesterone levels, which starts to occur in early pregnancy. Progesterone can make some of your muscles more relaxed, including the muscles surrounding your colon – which unfortunately means that your body is less able to push food through your digestive system.

When you are pregnant, constipation treatments are a little restricted as it is desirable to avoid medication where possible, unless directed by a doctor. Accordingly, stimulant laxatives should be avoided and natural treatments used.

To help treat constipation while pregnant you can try to introduce more fiber into the diet. Fresh fruit, vegetables and grains may help but many pregnant women find that they need a richer source of fiber.
Natural psyllium husk powder is one of the best ways to obtain this fiber. Psyllium husks are the main ingredient in some over the counter laxative, but minus all the extra ingredients like fillers, flavors, colors and preservatives. They are a natural plant product and are generally considered safe for use in pregnancy. Of course, it is worthwhile to consult your health care professional about any supplements you include in your diet.

Psyllium husks in their pure, granulated form are readily available from health food shops and some drug stores, as well as a range of online stores. The recommended dosage is one teaspoon three times a day. It can be added to cereal or smoothies, stirred into a glass of water or juice and taken like a shot or even baked into a low fat muffin. You can also find psyllium in a capsule form which is a little easier to swallow. The husks work by bulking in the bowel and softening the stools. As it helps push blockages through the bowel the husks literally scrub the lining of waste and stubborn fecal matter.

In order for the psyllium husks to work it is essential that daily water intake is increased to at least two liters – although you should already be drinking this if you are pregnant, constipated or not. It is important to sip this throughout the day rather than drink in large quantities at a time as it will rehydrate rather better than flush straight through. That might be good for the kidneys, but not as beneficial for the bowels.

Pregnancy can be a worrying time, especially for first time mums in the first trimester as there are a myriad of symptoms that can range from light bleeding to cramping and vomiting. Sometimes the cramping and discomfort can be attributed to constipation, although if you have any concerns or the pain is sharp and in conjunction with bleeding then seek medical advice immediately.

Diet for IBS

Jane — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:56:59 +0000

It’s estimated that 10 to 20 percent of the world’s population suffers from mild to severe Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The typical symptoms associated with this disorder of the gastrointestinal tract include pain, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or bloating. Diet is a major factor in managing the symptoms of IBS. Moderation is key in coping with the effects of IBS.

Those dealing with IBS should refrain from eating meals that are too large. Eating smaller meals throughout the day is preferable to eating a large meal in one sitting. Foods that are high in fat should also be avoided. IBS sufferers should stay away from fast-food meals in general because fried foods can definitely aggravate abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Coffee, alcohol, and caffeine are stimulants and irritants that affect the muscles in the colon. There are several types of sugars which are poorly absorbed by the bowl. Sorbitol and fructose are two examples of these types of sugar. Sorbitol is a sweetener found in diabetic gum, candy, and other foods. Fructose is another sweetener that may aggravate IBS symptoms. Honey and several fruits are high in fructose.

There are many foods that naturally produce gas when consumed. These foods should be avoided if bloating and gas are symptoms that are already present in those with IBS. Some of these foods include cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, onions, beans, raisins, peas, peanuts, and bagels are a few examples of foods that frequently lead to bloating.

It’s critical that individuals with IBS educate themselves about fiber. Insoluble fiber is very necessary for a healthy diet but it can exascurbate IBS symptoms. It’s actually a GI stimulant. Soluble fiber is the type of fiber that’s the least irritating to individuals with IBS. This type of fiber actually offers benefits such as soothing the digestive tract and stabilizes intestinal contractions. A simple search online with the keywords “soluble fiber foods” and “insoluble fiber foods” will yield a list of foods that fall into each category.

In conjuction with added fiber, ensuring the numbers of good gut flora (or probiotics) are within a healthy range can help the symptoms of IBS. Eating natural yoghurt is one way of obtaining probiotics, but there are also a range of probiotic suppliments available from pharmacies which can assist with the condition such as Ethical Nutrients IBS Support tablets.

A good diet for IBS sufferers will vary for each individual but there are general guidelines and groups of foods that are commonly beneficial or detrimental to those combating this disease. A primary health care physician should be involved in making decisions related to an IBS diet so that an individual is assured that their general nutritional needs are being met. Eating healthy is possible and encouraged for those dealing with IBS.

How to Relieve Constipation

Jane — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:50:23 +0000

Constipation is a common condition that will effect almost everyone at some time in their life, although some people may have a much harder time with this digestive ailment than others. There is no strict rule for determining what constipation is -it can vary by person. Not everyone has a bowel movement every day and some may only have three or four a week which can still be considered normal, but any less than that is constipation if it is conjuction with any discomfort. Hard stools or having difficulty passing a stool is also constipation and it can cause many problems from pain to bloating and lack of energy or even poor immune function.
Many factors affect digestion and bowel movement frequency. The foods you eat, whether or not you exercise, water intake, and even the layout of your digestive tract can play a part in the problem. In general, it can be caused when food lingers too long in the large intestine where water is extracted the food you have eaten which means that the remaining food in the tract becomes hard and difficult to budge. Other causes of constipation can be stress, not eating enough fiber, not going to the bathroom when you feel the urge, taking too much iron and taking certain drugs/painkillers.

A raft of medical conditions may also result in forms of constipation. These include pregnancy, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, muscle or nerve problems, and a malfunctioning thyroid gland. A physical examination may be needed to determine the exact cause of constipation, and this should be done if the problem is persistent or interferes with your lifestyle. Procedures like colorectal transit studies, colonoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy are a few familiar tests that can be helpful for diagnosis of the reasons for persistent constipation.

General advice to relieve constipation usually includes eating more fiber in the diet and drinking more water. Certain fruits, vegetables, and grains are very helpful for proper digestion. Prunes, squash, beans and whole grain cereals are often recommended, along with many others. Getting enough exercise and going to the bathroom frequently are important. Only use laxatives upon your doctor’s advice, although some over the counter remedies are perfectly safe to try such as Metamucil or Sienna tablets. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist, however, if you have an existing medical condition which may be causing the constipation and if you are on any medications which can be effected by over the counter remedies.

Constipation is a difficult and sometimes painful problem but it can be corrected and managed with the right treatment and lifestyle changes.

Natural stool softener

Jane — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:48:06 +0000

When you suffer from constipation, wouldn’t you rather put a natural stool softener into your body than a harsh laxative or commercial one that may make you feel even worse?

Constipation is a problem effecting millions of people everyday. It can be caused by anxiety and stress as well as eating the wrong foods such as a diet high in meat and dairy products, not getting enough water into your system, or even certain medications. Experts say we should have two or more bowel movements every day in order to flush out the necessary toxins, although for some people a bowel movement every second day can still be considered normal. One of the first signs of constipation is a headache as a result of the excess toxins followed by sharp pains in the lower stomach or even bloating.

The most natural natural stool softener is water. It takes the recommended eight glasses of fluids a day (which can include your coffee, tea, juices, etc.) to allow your colon to use the fluid in your stool to help transfer of fecal matter to the large intestines. There much of the water is reabsorbed for hydration and to balance your electrolytes. Not enough water leads to a dry and hard stool.

Coffee in the morning stimulates the metabolism and acts as a mild diuretic while prune juice is an excellent natural laxative.

Eating more fiber or taking a fiber supplement helps regulate the fluid in the stool by adding bulk to fecal matter and attracting water to it. Fresh fruit, vegetables, bran, and whole grain foods are excellent fiber sources.

Yogurt with its probiotics promotes healthy intestinal flora and aids in regularity.

Are you aware that exercise and physical activity increases your metabolism and moves stuff around in order to avoid constipation? So be as active as possible.

For temporary and infrequent relief, mineral oil is a natural stool softener if taken before bed so it can work overnight.

Senna is used even in hospitals for constipation and can be purchased to be used in a tasty tea. Hot fluids help to initiate bowel movements.

Try to be patient because it sometimes takes one to three days for natural stool softeners to take effect. Take the softener at night before bed with 8 ounces of water or juice. Read the dosage directions.

Confer with your doctor about your desired stool softener program and diet.

Hemorrhoid Treatment

Jane — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:47:17 +0000

Hemorrhoids are a common, uncomfortable health issue that plagues both men and women and can range from a minor nuisance to a significantly painful condition requiring surgical intervention. Home hemorrhoid treatment methods are highly effective for most minor cases of hemorrhoids; however, in some instances hemorrhoid sufferers must seek medical attention to alleviate painful symptoms and be able to participate in normal, everyday activities. It is important to note that some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as rectal bleeding, can also be caused by other serious health issues or diseases; therefore, anyone experiencing symptoms should consult with a physician to confirm that the symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids prior to attempting to treat hemorrhoids at home.

There are a range of suppositories, oitments and tablets available, although a cream such as Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Ointment can provide soothing relieve while it treats the problem.

In many cases, hemorrhoids home treatment is entirely possible and involves making simple lifestyle changes and taking steps to decrease discomfort while hemorrhoids are present. Promoting healthy, regular bowl movements without straining is an important part of treating and preventing hemorrhoids; therefore, many home treatment methods are centered on making dietary and lifestyle changes to this end. For example, increasing fiber and water intake and limiting foods and beverages that can cause constipation, such as ice cream, cheeses, caffeinated drinks, red meat and alcohol is an important step that should be taken by those who are treating hemorrhoids at home, as well as those who are seeking surgical intervention and would like to avoid future episodes.

Other treatment for hemorrhoids can include using stool softeners and over the counter medications to alleviate pain or itching, switching to soaps and body washes that do not have dyes or perfumes, applying ice packs and warm compresses throughout the day, taking sitz baths, and wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritation, pressure on the area and the build up of moisture.

Sometimes these lifestyle changes and comfort measures are enough to treat current hemorrhoids and prevent future cases; however, medical intervention is necessary in some instances. People who have large internal or external hemorrhoids, prolapsed hemorrhoids, or hemorrhoids that that have not responded well to home treatments, may find that more advanced hemorrhoid treatments are necessary. In these cases, there are a number of hemorrhoid treatment options available, ranging from minimally-invasive injections to surgical hemorrhoidectomies.

Medical treatment options for hemorrhoids include injections to shrink the hemorrhoids, rubber band ligation to cut off blood supply, cryotherapy, laser removal, coagulation using laser or infrared light or heat, stapling or surgical removal through a hemorrhoidectomy. When medical interventions are used for hemorrhoid treatment, it is important that the patient also makes dietary and lifestyle changes to prevent future hemorrhoids from occurring.

Natural cure for hemorrhoids

Jane — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:21:24 +0000

Since about three-quarters of the Uniteds States population suffers from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, learning more about a natural cure for hemorrhoids would be a useful step for many. The topic of hemorrhoids canbe embarrassing for most people to talk about, even to their doctors.

Diet is one of the best natural cures for hemorrhoids
There are a number of types of foods that can be added to or removed from the diet to help treat hemorrhoids and avoid getting the problem in the first place.

Foods rich in fiber can be extremely helpful to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids and any resultant bleeding. Eating things like whole grains and vegetables can add a lot of fiber to your diet. Another inexpensive option is the powdered fiber supplements that you can mix with water such as Metamucil or even a plain Psyllium Husk powder or capsule. When you have enough fiber in your diet, your stools will be softer and bulkier, which lessens straining that can cause hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can cause uncomfortable and embarrassing itching. Lowering the acid ph balance in your diet can help this. Try to cut down on things like carbonated drinks, citrus, beer and wine, and caffeine.
Drink plenty of water, non-citrus juices, and clear soups to promote easier bowel movement.

Herbal Treatments
Dietary supplements containing certain herbs or herbal mixtures applied topically are known to be beneficial in curing hemorrhoids.

Witch Hazel – You can purchase this in an ointment or medicated pad and should be applied directly to the hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is an astringent and stops the bleeding, along with easing pain, swelling, and itching.
Butcher’s Broom – This has been used for years for the treatment of hemorrhoids and varicose veins because it improves circulation in the veins. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and thus, shrinks swollen tissue. This is also applied as an ointment or compress.
Horse Chestnut – This has some of the same properties of butcher’s broom, but is taken as a caplet or in a tea.

Other Things that Can Help Heal Hemorrhoids
Avoid aggravating the area by rubbing too hard with toilet paper and consider switching to moistened toilet wipes or baby wipes.

Keep the area clean and use a soap free wash as soaps can irritate the delicate area.

Ice packs on inflamed hemorrhoids are very effective. Using a zip lock bag, apply the ice on and off for about 15 minutes. Do this 5 times a day.

Getting a Hemorrhoidectomy

Jane — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:15:39 +0000

The discomfort caused by hemorrhoids can range from mildly annoying to excruciatingly painful. For those who have large internal or external hemorrhoids, a combination of internal and external hemorrhoids, or painful hemorrhoids that have not responded to home remedies or less invasive procedures, such as ligation using rubber bands, a hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary to alleviate pain and other symptoms. A Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of hemorrhoids, which is normally performed in a surgery center on an outpatient basis using local, spinal or general anesthesia.

This procedure generally takes approximately 1 to 1½ hours to perform and requires that the patient be positioned face down on an operating table, or positioned on their back with their legs held up in stirrups. The area is cleaned and then each hemorrhoid will be clamped and tied off to prevent bleeding before being surgically removed. There is more than one method of removal that can be employed during a hemorrhoidectomy, with newer methods such as ultrasonic scalpels, cautery pencils and laser hemorrhoidectomy surgery quickly growing in popularity. If conventional methods are used to remove hemorrhoids, sutures will be required; whereas, if these newer methods are used, sutures are not needed. Another new procedure is sometimes coupled with hemorrhoidectomies, where surgeons staple healthy tissue in the area over the wound where hemorrhoids have been removed. While this procedure, called a stapled hemorrhoidectomy, seems to ease and hasten recovery, there is some evidence that this procedure may increase the risk of future complications.

Upon completion of the hemorrhoidectomy, patients are able to be driven home once the anesthesia has worn off and it is clear that any swelling in the area is not prohibiting urination. It is very common to experience pain during hemorrhoidectomy recovery, and most patients will be prescribed pain medication to assist with this. Pain medications that contain codeine may cause constipation, which can increase pain and discomfort during recovery; therefore, if constipation occurs, patients should alert their physician. Over the counter pain medications may also be recommended, as well as prescription or over the counter topical analgesic cream, gel or spray. Ice packs and frequents sitz baths, which are available as a sitz bath kit, help many patients manage pain and swelling during recovery, and high fiber foods and stool softeners are generally recommended for the first few weeks after surgery. Some bleeding is normal, particularly during the first few bowel movements after a hemorrhoidectomy; however, excessive bleeding should be reported right away.

After having a hemorrhoidectomy for the removal of hemorrhoids, patients can expect the recovery period to last at least two to three weeks and to have one or two follow-up appointments with their physician during this time. As patients recover from their hemorrhoidectomies, this is a good time to begin to plan and implement dietary and lifestyle changes to lower the chance of hemorrhoids returning in the future.

How to get rid of hemorrhoids

Jane — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:09:27 +0000

If you are suffering from hemorrhoid pain, you probably are interested in how to get rid of hemorrhoids. Most hemorrhoid treatments focus on relieving the pain and the symptoms associated with having hemorrhoids, although in some serious cases, surgical intervention may become necessary.

Some of the most common ways to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids include using a sitz bath kit or warm bath to soak the anal region or using ice packs to help reduce the swelling. The pain associated with hemorrhoids can be treated using over the counter oral pain medications such as aspirin or acetaminophen. Hemorrhoid creams, such as Preparation-H, and cortisone creams and petroleum jelly can also help relieve the itching and swelling caused by hemorrhoids. Finally, when you are suffering from a hemorrhoid outbreak you should try to wear comfortable, lose fitting underwear and clothing.

In the case of very serious hemorrhoids, such as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid or a prolapsed hemorrhoid, a surgical procedure called a hemorrhoidectomy may be used to remove the hemorrhoid group. There are also other medical procedures that can help shrink the hemorrhoids, including laser coagulation and infrared photocoagulation. Injection sclerotherapy can also be used, which involves injecting the area around the hemorrhoid with a chemical that closes off the veins supplying blood to the hemorrhoid, thus causing it to shrink. Finally, a rubber band can be placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut of the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually fall off.

If you suffer from hemorrhoids, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make that can help prevent hemorrhoids from developing or returning. Preventative measures include eating a diet that is rich in fiber and drinking at least eight cups of water every day. If you are overweight, losing weight can help prevent hemorrhoids from forming or returning. An active lifestyle, including regular exercise, can help prevent hemorrhoids as well. You should also be sure to avoid straining while having bowel movements. Difficulty with bowel movements can be helped by using a stool softener or natural laxative such as psyllium husks and by making dietary changes.

Newborn Constipation

Jane — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:15:36 +0000

Constipation in newborns is unusual in breastfed infants, as breast milk is considered to be a “perfect” food. In actual fact, it is not uncommon for babies to not empty their bowels for up to three days and this is not constipation but because the breast milk is being completely absorbed. However, if newborn constipation continues and the baby seems to be in any discomfort it is always best to consult a health care professional in the first instance.

Constipation in older babies (6 months plus and on solid foods) is more often than not caused by, and in turn can be remedied by, diet. Foods such as dairy, rice, apples, bread and bananas can be the cause of constipation in babies. Dehydration can also be a contributing factor in constipation. In warmer weather especially, it is advisable to ensure adequate water is consumed. Fruit juice, including apple juice is okay for children to drink, although diluted is advisable and be mindful that fruit juice is high in sugars.

High fibre foods such as apricots, prunes, peas and mashed beans are beneficial when it comes to alleviating constipation and incorporating these types of foods into the diet on a regular basis are a great constipation preventative. If incorporating a higher fiber diet ceases to help alleviate constipation it is recommended that you seek assistance from your doctor or a health care professional. They may recommend a glycerin suppository or a laxative such as Maltsupex. Maltsupex can be substituted with ½ teaspoon on processed bran mixed in with stewed fruit such as apricots- never apples. Apples are not good for baby’s digestive system as the pectin they contain can bind food particles in the digestive tract, this does not apply to apple juice though.

Massaging baby’s tummy in a gentle clockwise direction can also help get things moving, as well as help with discomfort they may be feeling. You can also lie the baby on their back and gently cycle their legs while holding their feet. If doing this seems to cause them pain or more discomfort then stop the action immediately and seek medical advice

Enema Equipment

Jane — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:02:13 +0000

A typical enema kit generally includes a cleansing bag, enema nozzles and clamps and a rubber hose or colon tube.

Enema Equipment

The enema bag is an essential part of the enema kit. Its purpose is to hold the water or solution as well as administer it. The enema bag will generally have a hook on one end to hang it as well as a hose on the other end. Enema bags come in many different sizes and varieties. The height above the ground at which the enema bag is hung determines the pressure of the water or solution. A recommended starting height is 2-3 feet above the ground.

There are three general types of enema bags. The most commonly used is the closed rubber bag, which can also be used as a hot water bag and can be purchased at any local pharmacy. It is extremely durable and usually lasts a lifetime. The open bag or fountain is collapsible and is often used when people are traveling, but it is warned that the open design can lead to spillage. The disposable bag is found in hospitals but can be purchased at most pharmacies. Some people prefer these bags because they are transparent allowing you to see the fluid level as it is being administered. Disposable bags are usually discarded after a few dozen uses.

Enema Nozzles and Clamps

The enema nozzle is another essential piece of enema equipment, as it is the part of the enema kit that is inserted into the rectum. There are many different kinds of enema nozzles on the market and some are specially made for people who have trouble with fissures and hemorrhoids. It is often recommended that a lubricant is used when inserting the nozzle, to prevent irritation and discomfort. When administering the water or fluid, the clamp on the nozzle helps control the flow.

Rubber Hose or Colon Tube

The enema tube is the device through which the contents of the enema bag are delivered to the colon through the rectum. Medium sized tubes are often recommended as smaller sizes can accidentally slide too deep inside the rectum.

Other Enema Accessories

An IV stand is sometimes used for home-administered enemas because of its ease of use. The hook on the enema bag can be attached to the IV stand and the height can be easily adjusted to control the rate of the fluid flow.