Constipation means different things to different people. For many people, it simply means infrequent stools. For others, however, constipation means hard stools, difficulty passing stools (straining), or a sense of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement. The cause of each of these symptoms of constipation vary, so the approach to each should be tailored to each specific person. Our TCM clinical practice has showed that integration of Chinese medicine and western medicine is a very good choice for this disease. When treating constipation, Chinese doctors will take everything into consideration, including the following conditons.

1. A disruption of regular diet or routine; traveling
2. Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility
3. Eating large amounts of dairy products
4. Stress
5. Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, which is sometimes the result of pain from hemorrhoids
6. Overuse of laxatives (stool softeners) which, over time, weaken the bowel muscles
7. Hypothyroidism
8. Inadequate water intake
9. Irritable bowel syndrome
10. Pregnancy
11. Colon cancer
12. Inadequate fiber in the diet
13. Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
14. Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum
15. Medicines (especially strong pain medicines, such as narcotics, antidepressants, or iron pills)
16. Depression
17. Eating disorders