Relieve Constipation / Diarrhea with Acupuncture

Its fundamental; what goes into the body needs to come out. It is normal and healthy to eliminate waste from your body on a daily basis. When a person suffers either constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of the two, it is a message from the body that something is out of balance. In many instances the condition is temporary and will clear up within a day or two without much intervention. In other instances, it is a symptom of a greater imbalance or disease. There are many patterns of imbalance that cause constipation and diarrhea. Factors such as bacterial or viral infections, food intolerance, reactions to medications, parasites, and functional diseases can all produce the symptoms of either condition. There are just as many treatment options within traditional Chinese medicine. An acupuncturist asks many questions about diet, physical activity, emotional state, stress levels, energy level, appetite, and where is the site of pain to help determine the source of the imbalance. The acupuncturist will also ask many questions about the qualities of the stool itself, to further identify the pattern of imbalance. Certain acupuncture points will help the gastrointestinal system return to normal.

Constipation

Typical characteristics of constipation include:

• infrequency having a bowel movement (less than three times a week)
• hard stool
• difficulty pushing out a bowel movement
• bloating or lower abdominal tenderness
• bleeding during a bowel movement
• feeling like you did not empty your bowels
• unable to pass a bowel movement after straining for 10 min.
• gassiness

Diarrhea

Typical characteristics of diarrhea include:

• watery stools more than three times a day
• abdominal cramping
• abdominal pain
• bloating
• nausea
• sudden and urgent need “to go”
• blood in stool
• gassiness

Acupuncture alone can do much to help your system return to “normal” however, your acupuncturist may include herbal treatment and make diet, and/or lifestyle suggestions to ensure that your digestive system remains healthy.

If you suffer constipation and/or diarrhea you should make an appointment to discuss treatment options. Schedule your appointment today!

Call 650-646-5744 or use the online appointment service: