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1000+ verified doctorsHow to regularize bowel movements and increase frequency? - #3449
I had a surgery to remove a part of my small intestine. After this surgery my frequency of bowel movements reduced to once or twice per week. Tried laxatives but no effect. I'm living with constant bloat and pain around Belly button.
Doctors' responses
After surgery to remove part of the small intestine, your digestive system might be struggling with absorption and motility, leading to constipation, bloating, and discomfort around the belly button. In Ayurveda, this could be linked to an imbalance in Vata dosha, which governs movement in the body, including digestion. To support your digestion, you can try Ayurvedic remedies that stimulate and soothe the digestive system. Herbs like Triphala, Haritaki, and Senna can help improve bowel movements and reduce constipation. Adding Ajwain (carom seeds), cumin, and ginger to your diet can enhance digestive fire (Agni) and reduce bloating. It’s important to focus on easy-to-digest foods, such as stewed vegetables, warm soups, and soft, cooked grains like rice. Drinking warm water throughout the day and avoiding cold, heavy, or greasy foods can help ease digestive discomfort. Gentle abdominal massage with warm sesame oil or castor oil may also aid in reducing bloating and improving bowel movements. However, given your medical history, it is crucial to work with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can provide a tailored plan and monitor your progress. If the bloating and constipation persist, a medical checkup to ensure there are no obstructions or further complications is also advisable.
That sounds really, really tough. Dealing with digestion issues after surgery is pretty common but it’s still rough. I think Ayurveda’s principles could help, though it might take a little time.
Let’s talk doshas. Since you’ve had intestinal surgery, this could be a big Vata disturbance – they govern movement, including the intestines. This imbalance might be contributing to the reduced frequency of bowel movements and bloat.
First, start with your diet. Incorporate more easily digestible, warm foods. Think soups, stews, and cooked veggies. Avoid anything that’s cold, dry and raw, which could aggravate the Vata. Try to include ginger, which is warming and can stimulate agni – your digestive fire.
Hydration is key. Sip warm water or herbal teas through the day instead of cold drinks. Cumin, coriander, and fennel teas are quite good for nurturing digestion. They can really help reduce bloating and that discomfort near your belly button.
Massaging your abdomen with warm sesame oil might help, too. Do it in clockwise motion for few mins. This can stimulate digestion and support peristalsis, the wave-like movements in your intestines.
Let’s address laxatives. They might not have worked because they sometimes just force movement without resolving the underlying imbalance. Consider using triphala powder instead, this is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation known to aid digestion gently. Take around half to one teaspoon with warm water before bed. But, go easy as it might start working a bit slow at first but it’s more holistic.
Don’t forget daily routines: eating meals at the same time every day, regular moderate exercises like walking can also help normalize bowel function.
Since these symptoms post-surgery might hint at a more complex situation, please check in with your healthcare provider too, if you haven’t already. They may have additional insights or adjustments for this road to recovery. And remember, listen to your body, especially if you feel distress – that signals timely medical attention over home remedies sometimes.
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