Constipation, Part II

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In this blog we will continue discussing the Constipation topic and we will see more in details how our digestive system works and what can effect it

Retention of hard or putty like stool in the rectum which interferes with the normal passage of feces. It can be masked by watery diarrhea pushing past it. It is usually accompanied by pain and abdominal distension.

Actions of the digestive system

  1. Peristalsis : wavelike contractions of the gastrointestinal tract that move the contents through the system.
  2. Mass movements: in the large intestine, contractions are larger and less frequent – called mass movements – they help eliminate feces.

Transit time

From ingestion to elimination, it should take anywhere from 24-48 hours it can vary anywhere from 3/d to 1/3 days

  • Increased transit time – if the food remains in the system for longer duration then more water is absorbed by the large intestine – this results in hard, usually smaller stool.
  • Decreased transit time- if the food remains in the system for shorter duration then there is less opportunity for the large intestine to absorb water – this results in loose, watery stool.

Causes/Factors that influence transit time:

  • Failure to respond to the defecation reflex
  • Stress: increases activity of the sympathetic nervous system
  • Diet: fibre decreases transit time, fat increases transit time, dehydration increases transit time
  • Dehydration
  • Postural faults: hyperlordosis scoliosis, tension through certain muscles or muscle groups can affect digestion ( iliopsoas, abdominals, diaphragm…) – look at work (prolonged positions )
  • Increased age and weakness of the smooth muscle in the intestines Muscle weakness and inactivity, which impede defecation ( especially in the elderly)
  • Scar tissue in the abdomen will affect GI function – draws everything towards it
  • Post – surgery : the body is in a state of flux and the GI system tends to decrease its function
  • Pregnancy
  • Obstruction caused by tumors
  • Medications, narcotics CNS depressants slow peristalsis. Diuretics, calcium, and iron.

Neurological disorders that might affect our digestive system:

  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Stroke
  • Spinal cord injuries

Metabolic and endocrine conditions that might affect our digestive system:

  • Diabetes
  • Uremia
  • Hypercalcemia
  • Poor glycemic control
  • Hypothyroidism

Systemic disorders that might affect our digestive system:

  • Lupus
  • Scleroderma

What are the Signs and symptoms of constipation:

  • Changes in ‘normal’ pattern of bowel movements
  • Straining when defecating ( unproductive urges )
  • Hard / pellet – like stool
  • Abdominal or low back pain
  • Bloating / flatulence
  • Headaches, malaise, halitosis, nausea, lack of appetite
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Abdominal pail / distension ( a sense of incomplete emptying )
  • Hard feces can irritate the psoas and cause trigger points and low back pain

Follow us at our massage therapy clinic blogs in Oakville and find out how massage and self-care might assists in decreasing the symptoms of constipating

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