Slow-transit constipation – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Thursday, July 05, 2018 by Carol Anderson

Slow-transit constipation refers to the reduced ability of the large intestines to move food through the digestive system. This is normally caused by abnormalities of the enteric nerves and causes a delay in stool passage through the colon.

Due to the slow movement of waste, chronic problems develop, such as constipation and uncontrollable soiling. The slow-transit disorder can be diagnosed as early as after birth wherein a newborn fails to pass his/her meconium within the next 24 hours.

This condition is said to have no cure.

Known risk factors and symptoms of slow-transit constipation

People with low income or those who belong in developing countries are said to be more at risk of chronic constipation. Other factors include:

Belonging to the female gender
Older age
Inactivity
Low-caloric intake
Low-fiber diet
Taking a lot of medications at the same time

Patients who suffer from slow-transit constipation experience the following symptoms:

Constipation
Reduced motility
Uncontrollable soiling
Pain in the abdomen
Nausea
Decreased appetite

Body systems affected by slow-transit constipation

Slow-transit constipation may lead to further complications, such as:

Anal fissures – Small tears in the skin around the anus. It may cause pain and bleeding when boweling.
Fecal Impaction – Difficulty or inability to push stool out. Normally occurs when a large volume of feces is bulked up in the rectum.
Hemorrhoids – Swollen weins in the anus or rectum area that may cause pain.
Rectal prolapse – Part of the rectum detaches from the anus.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent or relieve slow-transit constipation

Preventing or relieving the symptoms of slow-transit constipation is possible through a healthy diet that is rich in:

Fiber – It is a known dietary supplement that effectively helps digestive problems. Health experts recommend a higher intake of fiber for a better bowel movement. Foods like whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds, and legumes are all packed with fiber.
Water – The colon absorbs water from the stool which makes it very important to drink more fluids. Dehydration can cause stool to become harder and drier.
Probiotics – Studies have shown that this can help soften stool. It can be sourced from yogurt, kefir, tempeh, kimchi, and pickles.

Treatment and management options for slow-transit constipation

When dealing with slow-transit constipation, experts usually prescribe laxatives to soften the stool and boost the system to push out stool. The following are herbal laxatives effective for treating this condition:

Black Seeds
Olive Leaves
Flax Seeds
Cascara Sagrada
Certified Organic Cloves
Senna
Slippery Elm
Bentonite
Turkey Rhubarb
Aloe Vera
Peppermint
Wormseed
Thyme oil powder
Garlic Extract

Since the list above contains moderate and mild herbal laxatives, it’s recommended that they’re used to create a mixture. Mixing them together can help ease constipation faster.

Where to learn more

Summary

Slow-transit constipation is a condition where a person suffers from difficulty in passing stool. This is usually caused by abnormalities of the enteric nerves. Risk factors include old age, female sex, low caloric intake, and a low-fiber diet.

Common symptoms of this condition are constipation, reduced motility, uncontrollable soiling, pain in the abdomen, nausea, and decreased appetite.

If slow-transit constipation is not treated, it can cause further complications, such as anal fissures, fecal impaction. hemorrhoids, and rectal prolapse.

Healthcare providers recommend a high intake of fiber-rich foods, water, and probiotics to ease slow-transit constipation. As for treatment, using herbal laxatives like flax seeds, senna, and aloe vera were found effective.

Sources include:

BetterHealth.vic.gov.au

PositiveHealthWellness.com

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