Constipation According to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Someone who usually passes stool every day may say that they are experiencing constipation if it has been two days since their last bowel movement. Some may say their regular bowel pattern is passing stool every other day. The bottom line is that everyone's body is different. That is the reason why it is important to establish a patient's baseline when they come in seeking help concerning their gut concerns and bowel movements. Besides frequency, the stool description and sensation should also be taken into consideration.

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine views bian bi(便秘) or constipation as a result of disruptions and imbalances with the organ systems and Qi. These imbalances reflect different types of constipation, each with its unique causes and symptoms.

 

Heat Type: Excess heat can affect the organ systems of the large intestines and lungs. This type manifests as dry and hard stool, bloating, dark and yellow urine, dry mouth, bad breath, and even a flushed skin complexion.

 

Yin and Blood Deficiency Type: This type of deficiency is often seen in postpartum women and elderly individuals. People with this type of deficiency will experience the urge to clear their bowels but will need to make extra effort to release the stool. Because of that, they may also experience dizziness, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Deficiency type of constipation would also have symptoms of fatigue and dry skin.

 

Qi Stagnation Type: Qi Stagnation type of constipation is often linked to poor appetite, stress, and emotional distress. Bloating and difficulty passing stools, even if they are moist and not hard, are symptoms of this type.

 

Cold Type: Cold-type constipation is often prompted by the cold temperature. This could be through the weather, food, or drink. Symptoms of cold-type constipation are normal or dry stool, abdominal pain, pale complexion, white tongue coating, and cold limbs. People with cold-type constipation only have bowel movements every few days.

 

Now that we have identified the types of constipation and its possible underlying causes, restoration of balance is the next agenda. With the help of Traditional Chinese medicine, natural treatments are done to get things moving again. Depending on the root cause, varying approaches can be done from diet change, lifestyle adjustments, herbal medicine, and acupuncture.

 

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to addressing this common yet often misunderstood condition. Your journey to a healthier and more balanced life is here. Click the 'book online' button above to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ting Wu of NYC Acupuncture + Wellness.