What Causes Constipation and Excessive Flatulence?

Flatulence refers to the release of gas from the digestive system through the rectum. Constipation accompanied by frequent flatulence may be caused by improper diet, insufficient physical activity, intestinal flora imbalance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or hypothyroidism. Management depends on the specific cause, and it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly to identify the underlying cause and follow appropriate medical guidance.

1. Improper diet: A low intake of dietary fiber combined with excessive consumption of high-fat, high-protein foods such as red meat and refined grains can easily lead to constipation. At the same time, gut bacteria break down food and produce large amounts of gas, resulting in frequent flatulence. It is recommended to adjust the diet by consuming more fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, such as broccoli and apples, and to increase intake of whole grains.

2. Insufficient physical activity: Prolonged sitting and lack of exercise can slow gastrointestinal motility, causing stool to remain in the intestines for extended periods. Excessive water absorption makes the stool hard and difficult to pass, causing constipation. The slow movement also prevents gas from being expelled efficiently, leading to frequent flatulence. Increasing physical activity in daily life, such as walking for 30 minutes daily or engaging in yoga or jogging, is recommended.

3. Imbalance of intestinal flora: Overuse of antibiotics and irregular eating habits can disrupt the balance of intestinal flora, reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing harmful bacteria. This affects digestion and absorption, leading to constipation and increased flatulence, which may also be accompanied by bloating and abdominal pain. Patients can take medications such as Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets, Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium bifidum viable capsules, or Lichen bacillus viable capsules under medical guidance to regulate the intestinal flora.

4. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Dietary and psychological factors can trigger intestinal dysfunction, increasing gut sensitivity and altering motility patterns, resulting in constipation, frequent flatulence, and symptoms often related to emotions and diet. Abdominal pain may also occur. Patients are advised to take medications such as pinaverium bromide tablets, trimebutine maleate tablets, or compound alverine citrate soft capsules under medical guidance to regulate intestinal function.

5. Hypothyroidism: Reduced synthesis and secretion of thyroid hormones slows down the body's metabolism, leading to decreased gastrointestinal motility, which causes constipation and increased flatulence. This may also be accompanied by fatigue, cold intolerance, and excessive sleepiness. Patients can take medications such as thyroid tablets, Yikang capsules, or hydrocortisone tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, maintaining a regular routine and engaging in appropriate physical exercise, such as walking or jogging, can help promote intestinal motility.

References:

[1] Wang Kangyi, Zhang Ying. Research Progress on the Correlation Between Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Yang Deficiency Constitution [J]. Journal of Clinical Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2024, 16(19):144-148.

[2] Wen Qianying, Zhang Liqing. Mechanism of Gut Flora Imbalance in Promoting the Development of Hyperuricemia and Research Progress on Prevention and Treatment by Flora Regulation [J]. Shandong Medical Journal, 2024, 64(27):92-97.