Description and Symptoms

Constipation is a common lifestyle disorder which is experienced by most people at some time.  Symptoms will vary from person to person.  Some will experience infrequent stools, for others it could mean hard stools, difficulty passing stools (straining), or the feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement. The causes for each of these symptoms of constipation will likely be different.

Constipation is usually defined as having less than 3 bowel movements per week (4 for children), and severe constipation is having less than one bowel movement per week.  The usual signs and symptoms of constipation include:

• Cramps or abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Hard, compacted stool which are difficult and/or painful to pass
• Lack of bowel movement for 3 or 4 days

The following symptoms may also be present in addition to the ones mentioned above:  Nausea, loss of appetite, passing gas with inability to pass stool, dizziness, coated tongue, bad breath, headaches and pale complexion.

There are a number of factors which can contribute to constipation however the root cause is usually dietary – not enough fibre or fluid intake, lack of certain vitamins or eating too much meat, eggs, dairy products or processed foods.  Some other possible causes for constipation include:

• Lack of exercise
• Delaying the urge to have a bowel movement
• Medications such as pain killers, especially those with codeine, antacids, antidepressants and iron tablets
• Abusing laxatives or enemas, which upset the balance of micro-organisms in the gut
• Health conditions/disorders such as IBS, hypothyroidism, spinal injury, multiple sclerosis, kidney failure, colon or rectal cancer, too much calcium in the blood, tumors and lesions of the bowel
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes

Treatment:  BM 21 is a safe, non-addictive homeopathic remedy, specially formulated to support regular bowel movements and healthy digestion.  BM 21 can be used to gently cleanse and flush out the system and support the body’s natural ability to pass a healthy bowel movement when needed, as well as remove toxins and waste by-products, without harmful side effects.

Conventional treatment includes the use of over-the-counter stimulant laxatives such as Correctol, Dulco-lax and Senokot, all which cause the bowel muscles to contract.  Prescription medications such as Miralax (containing polyethylene glycol) are used to help soften the stool.  Lubricants grease the stool, helping it to move through the intestine more easily. Mineral oil is the most common example. Brand names include Fleet and Zymenol.

Doctor’s will treat constipation depending on the cause, severity, and duration of the symptoms, however in most cases dietary and lifestyle changes, such as eating enough fiber and drinking enough fluids will help relieve symptoms and help prevent them from recurring – without the need for over-the-counter or prescription drugs.  It is important to be aware that constipation is a warning sign from your body that should not be ignored; it is letting you know that changes need to be made.

Talk to your family doctor if:

• Constipation is new and unusual for you
• You have constipation for 3 weeks or more despite at-home treatment (such as diet changes)
• You have abdominal pain
• You notice any blood in your stools
• You lose weight without reason

Please note:  Advice provided from ANY website is not a substitute for qualified medical care.  While we are very confident in the safety and effectiveness of our products, you should always consult with a medical professional in regards to any serious health problem.