How to Relieve Stomach Pain from Constipation?

Stomach pain due to constipation is an uncomfortable and distressing experience. It stems from the accumulation of dry, hard intestine stools, which result in cramping, bloating, and pain. Fortunately, there are different medical and traditional options to relieve this discomfort. 

This article explains various strategies to relieve stomach pain due to constipation, offering a detailed overview of dietary changes, over-the-counter medications, lifestyle adjustments, and traditional remedies. Stay on the page for more details. 

Constipation and Its Symptoms

Constipation causes irregular bowel movements, typically less than three per week, and the passage of dry, hard stools. It causes various symptoms, e.g., 

• Cramping and abdominal pain
• Lumpy & hard stools
• Poor appetite
• Gas & bloating
• Difficulty passing stools
• A feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Excessive straining during bowel movements
• Rectal blockage 

Medical Treatments

Over time, various medical treatments have evolved for constipation. They include; 

Over-the-Counter Laxatives

Over-the-counter laxatives facilitate or stimulate bowel movements and provide quick relief by softening stools. Various types of laxatives are;

• Stimulant Laxatives: These laxatives stimulate the intestinal muscles to boost bowel movements. Typical examples are Senna (Ex-Lax) and Bisacodyl (Dulcolax).
• Osmotic Laxatives: These laxatives draw more water into the intestines to soften the stools and ease their passage. Typical examples are milk of magnesia and polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX).
• Bulk-forming Laxatives: Methylcellulose (Citrucel) and psyllium (Metamucil) add bulk to the stool, leading to more peristaltic movements. 
• Stool Softeners: These laxatives mix water into the stools to make them soft and easy to pass. An example is docusate sodium (Colace). 

Prescription Medications

For chronic and refractory constipation, doctors often prescribe medications, e.g.,

• Lubiprostone (Amitiza): It eases the stool passage by increasing fluid secretion in the intestines. It is necessary to stick to the prescribed doses. 
• Linaclotide (Linzess): It Stimulates bowel movements by boosting intestinal fluid.
• Prucalopride (Motegrity): It enhances colonic motility.

Dietary Changes

Sometimes, many dietary changes relieve abdominal stress by eliminating constipation. However, These changes must be incorporated into the regular routine and work slowly. Three significant nutritional changes are;

Increase Fibre Intake

Fibre helps the stools to move faster by adding bulk to stools and helping them pass easily through the digestive tract. It is necessary to add both soluble and insoluble fibres. 

• Soluble Fibre: It is present in beans, oats, and fruits, e.g., oranges and apples. It softens the stools by absorbing water and forming a gel-like substance.
• Insoluble Fibre: It is present in whole vegetables (e.g., carrots and cucumbers), grains, and nuts. It speeds the passage of stools by adding bulk to them. 

Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration is vital for preventing and relieving constipation. Water softens stools, making them easier to pass. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily—additionally, herbal teas, such as peppermint or ginger tea, aid digestion by improving hydration. 

Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods, such as canned fruits and vegetables, frozen foods, packaged snacks, backed items, processed meats, and sugary drinks, lack fibre and contain large amounts of sugar and fat, worsening constipation. Limit the intake of these foods to the minimum possible.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Various lifestyle adjustments offer a credible solution to prevent and alleviate constipation. Some effective strategies are; 

Regular Exercise

Physical activities stimulate intestinal contractions, causing regular bowel movements. Try to spend at least 30 minutes on moderate exercise, such as jogging, walking, and cycling, on most days of the week. These exercises also boost calorie burning. 

Establish a Daily Routine

Train the body for regular bowel movements by setting a consistent daily routine. The best time is after meals, as eating activity stimulates the digestive system. Try to be firm with this routine and never give up. 

Respond to the Urge

Ignoring an urge to have a bowel movement leads to constipation. The large intestine absorbs more water from the stool, making it firm and hard. When a person feels the urge, find a restroom quickly and defecate as early as possible.

Traditional and Natural Remedies

Several natural and traditional remedies offer an effective solution to constipation-associated abdominal pain and discomfort. Choose one or more of these that fit the routine. 

Prune Juice

Prune is a rich source of sorbitol and dihydrophenylisatin, natural laxatives that soften stools and promote rapid bowel movements. Consequently, prune juice is a well-known natural remedy for constipation. Drink at least one glass of prune juice in the morning for better effects.

Moreover, it has a high nutrient value, plenty of water, and a rich source of soluble and insoluble fibre. 

Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, which aid digestion. Add ground flaxseeds to regular meals, e.g., oatmeal or yoghurt, or mix them into a glass of water and drink them. They are a rich source of soluble and insoluble fibre, have mucilage, which forms a gel-like material with water, and have laxative properties. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera juice is a natural laxative. It soothes the digestive tract and promotes bowel movements. Use only a small amount of aloe vera juice, but be cautious, as excessive intake causes diarrhoea. It contains natural laxatives, such as anthraquinones, and improves hydration, lubrication, and digestive health.  

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote healthy digestion. Consuming more probiotic-rich foods, e.g., kefir, yoghurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, relieve constipation by regulating bowel movements. Eating a probiotic-rich food is a quick and natural remedy for constipation and its associated complications. 

Herbal Remedies

Several herbal remedies offer an effective remedy for constipation and its associated complications. However, while taking herbal remedies, it is necessary to check their source and quality and be aware of allergic reactions and potential side effects. Some natural herbs with practical anti-constipation functions are;

Senna

Senna is a natural laxative obtained from the fruits and leaves of the Senna plant. It stimulates bowel movements and irritates the bowel lining. Senna is available in capsule, tea, and liquid form but must be used sparingly to avoid the risk of dependency.

It contains sennosides, compounds with excellent laxative properties. However, it is recommended only for short-term use. 

Cascara Sagrada

Cascara Sagrada is an herbal laxative obtained from the bark of the buckthorn tree (Rhamnus purshiana). Its active compound, anthraquinones, increases colon contractions. Cascara Sagrada stimulates the intestines. It is available in supplement form and must be used under professional guidance. 

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium husk is an effective and popular remedy for constipation and its associated complications. It is a natural bulk-forming laxative, a natural fibre that increases stool size and promotes regularity. It is mixed with juice or water and consumed daily. 

Massage and Acupressure

Massage and acupressure are effective complementary therapies for constipation-linked abdominal pain. Some essential techniques to consider are; 

Abdominal Massage

Gently massaging the abdomen helps stimulate bowel movements. Move in circular motions, starting from the right side of the abdomen and moving up, across, and down the left side. Colon massage techniques, such as clockwise massage, kneading, and circular motions, are effective therapies. 

Acupressure

Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve symptoms. For constipation, it is helpful to apply pressure to the point three finger-widths below the navel: large Intestine 4 (LI4), stomach 36 (ST36), and conception vessel 6 (CV6).

However, it is vital to apply gentle pressure, as excessive pressure worsens the pain and sometimes causes it.   

When to See a Doctor?

Although many cases of constipation are manageable with lifestyle changes and home remedies, it's sometimes vital to seek medical advice. Always choose these techniques based on frequency and duration, severity of the symptoms, effectiveness, changes in bowel habits, and concurrent medications. Some factors leading to immediate medical check-ups are;

• Constipation persisting for more than 3-4 weeks
• Severe pain and bleeding
• Sudden changes in bowel habits (disruptive and concernedly) 
• Ineffectiveness of the over-the-counter treatments 
• A history of gastrointestinal disorders and other related medical conditions.
• Rectal bleeding or bloody stools
• Unexplained weight loss

Frequently Asked Questions  

What causes the constipation to go away? 

Dietary fibre is the most effective way to treat constipation. Add more fibre to the diet slowly over several days to feel better. According to gastroenterologists, hydration and exercise are other proven ways to relieve constipation. 

How long does the constipation associated with stomach pain last? 

Depending upon the cause and treatment, constipation takes several days to weeks to respond. Laxatives treat the condition in 3 days. However, dietary changes take several weeks to work. 

What are the ways to soften the stools immediately? 

There are several ways to soften stool and relieve constipation immediately. These include staying hydrated by boosting water intake, eating more fibrous foods, drinking prune juice or prunes, drinking more warm water and coffee, doing exercises, and regularly taking probiotics. 

What are some easy and simple tricks to empty the bowels? 

Consuming a few bowls of olive oil on an empty stomach or in the morning encourages stool movements out of the gut. The oil serves as an excellent lubricant, making the stools move faster. 

Is yoghurt helpful for constipation? 

Yoghurt's probiotics soften stools and improve gut health. A 2017 review noted that yoghurt probiotics improve constipation by 10-40% compared to the placebo. Kefir and yoghurt are some of the most probiotic-rich foods. 

Is milk beneficial in constipation? 

A clinical trial in 2021 noted that milk proteins slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation and inflammation. People with lactose intolerance experience diarrhoea. So, milk and milk products are not good for constipation and its complications, except fermented milk products.

What are the fastest constipation relief methods?

Several methods offer quick relief from constipation. These are using a lubricant laxative and stool softener, trying a suppository and enema, using a squat position for defecation, getting regular exercise, and trying natural remedies, e.g., colonic massage. Choose any of these relief methods according to personal choice. 

Conclusion

Relieving stomach pain from constipation involves a multifaceted approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, over-the-counter medications, and traditional remedies. You can effectively manage and prevent constipation by incorporating fibre-rich foods, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and using natural remedies like prune juice and flaxseeds. 

If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. You can alleviate discomfort and maintain a healthy digestive system with the right strategies. 

Welzo offers several treatments for constipation and related complications. These include Movicol Sachets, Lactulose Solution, and various other treatments. Visit us for these products. In addition to abdominal issues, constipation causes various other issues, such as nausea. Read our informative article, "How to Relieve Nausea From Constipation?" for more details.