Constipation
Constipation is a problem emptying the bowels. This may be from hard and dry stools. Your belly may feel full and have pain and pressure.
Usual care involves changes in the diet, higher fiber supplements, and working out. Medicine may also help to soften stools or stimulate the bowel to move stool. Some medicines can be habit forming.
Natural Therapies
Natural therapies may be an alternative to medicine.
Likely Effective
- Biofeedback—may help you have more control over the muscles you use to pass stools. It may ease constipation in people who have problems with pelvic floor muscles.
- Probiotics—healthy bacteria that may help to pass stool more often. They are likely more helpful in adults than in children.
- Acupuncture—insertion of fine needles in the body to ease symptoms. It may help stool pass more often.
Possibly Effective
- Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine (Note: Not all Chinese herbal medicine is safe.)
Herbs and Supplements to Be Used With Caution
Talk to your doctor about all herbs or supplements you are taking. Some may get in the way of your treatment plan or other health problems. Some are safe, but others may not be. They are not controlled like prescription and over the counter medicines.