Review of drugs for the treatment of constipation. How to improve intestinal motility: products, drugs and traditional medicine What improves intestinal motility in an adult

- This is motor activity associated with the work of its smooth muscles. Regular contraction and relaxation of muscles promotes digestion and movement of contents through the digestive tract. If motor function is impaired, the bowel movement pattern changes and the state of health worsens.

The muscular lining of the intestine consists of two layers, which differ in the arrangement of the fibers: longitudinal outer and circular inner. Coordinated muscle contractions produce bowel movements.

Types of physiological contractions

Regulation

Intestinal motility is the result of the coordinated work of hormones, the autonomic and central nervous systems.

  • cells of the neuromuscular plexus of the intestinal wall provide background rhythmic activity;
  • motility is enhanced by the influence of food breakdown products;
  • irritation of rectal zone receptors inhibits upper motor skills;
  • food intake first reflexively inhibits, then stimulates the motor activity of the intestine;
  • hormones that enhance motility: gastrin, histamine, vasopressin;
  • hormones that reduce motility: secretin, vasoactive intestinal peptide.

With normal intestinal motor function, the digestion process lasts from 1 to 3 days.

Weak motor skills

Decreased motility leads to infrequent and insufficient bowel movements. Chronic constipation appears.

Symptoms

Causes

Enhanced motor skills

With high intestinal motility, food remains in the body for less than a day. During this time, it does not have time to be completely digested and absorbed. Arises.

Symptoms


Causes

Improving intestinal motility

Diet

If you have intestinal atony, eat regularly, at least 4 times a day. Drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day. Include foods with a laxative effect in your diet.

Grocery list


Set of exercises

Do morning exercises, do exercises to stimulate intestinal function:

Drugs

Reducing intestinal motility

Diet

Nutrition during accelerated peristalsis should be gentle. Eliminate fatty, fried, spicy, rough foods. Eat small portions up to 6 times a day. For diarrhea, prepare pureed dishes: casseroles, puddings, soufflés, purees. The basis of the diet should be foods with a fixing effect.

One of the most common problems at work gastrointestinal tract– disturbance of intestinal motility. A healthy intestine has the ability to make wave-like movements that stimulate the movement of feces for subsequent bowel movements. Violation of peristalsis leads to constipation - and, as a consequence, clogging of the body with toxins and the occurrence of chronic diseases. In this case, peristalsis directly depends on three factors: lifestyle, amount of fluid consumed and proper diet and nutrition. It is these factors that should be paid attention to in the event of intestinal malfunctions first.

Changing our lifestyle
Ideally, the body should be freed from toxins daily. Lack of bowel movements for more than two days is considered constipation. If you notice that your intestines have begun to malfunction, first of all, reconsider your lifestyle.
  1. Physical inactivity, or lack of physical activity, leads to a weakening of muscle tone, including the abdominal muscles, the activity of which is directly related to the quality of intestinal motility. Get some exercise. Start your day with morning exercises, which include simple exercises to strengthen your abdominal muscles. Buy a special ball and roll on it every day, lying on your stomach, for a few minutes. This way, you will not only give your intestines a “set” for healthy activity throughout the day, but you will also feel a surge of strength and energy.
  2. If your occupation involves sedentary, sedentary work, do a short five-minute warm-up every 2-3 hours. This can be bending and rotating the body, squats and exercises to pull the legs bent at the knees towards the stomach.
  3. Visit more fresh air. Walking is useful for any disturbances in the functioning of the body; it enriches the blood with oxygen and perfectly tones.
  4. Stop smoking. This bad habit is one of the destructive factors affecting peristalsis. Tobacco smoke, entering your body, stimulates the motor activity of the intestines, but over time, one gets used to this “stimulus”, and the smoker can no longer do without a cigarette in order for peristalsis to “turn on” and defecation to occur.
  5. Do not be nervous! Any stress directly affects the functioning of the intestines, which can lead to serious disorders chair and knock you out of your usual rut for a long time.
Drink more fluid
In order for the intestines to work like clockwork, it is necessary to refuse to eat dry food, since it not only weakens peristalsis, but also, by forming dense dry masses, can damage the intestinal mucosa, which, in turn, can lead to inflammatory processes and even peptic ulcer disease.
  1. In the morning on an empty stomach, drink a glass of liquid, preferably kefir. The bifidobacteria it contains restore the intestinal microflora, and its delicate consistency envelops and moisturizes its walls.
  2. Try to drink enough fluids throughout the day. For an adult, the norm is 2 liters per day, not counting the moisture contained in food. In case of intestinal problems, carrot, beet, plum and pumpkin juices are useful, but strong tea and coffee should be avoided. Intensive fluid intake should be stopped after 7 pm, since the kidneys at this time switch to rest mode and need rest.
  3. End the day with kefir or other fermented milk product containing beneficial bacteria. At the same time, give preference to drinks that do not contain sugar or flavoring additives.
Eating right
Breakfasts "on a quick fix", snacking on the run and indulging in fast food can cause significant damage to even the healthiest intestines. If you want to keep your body in good condition for many years, do not neglect such concepts as “healthy diet” and “eating regimen”.
  • First of all, organize your food intake. Your schedule should include breakfast, afternoon tea, lunch and dinner. In this case, breakfast should be light, afternoon snack should be more nutritious, lunch should consist of three courses, including hot soup, and dinner should preferably be at 6-7 pm, without overloading the body with heavy and rich food.
  • If you feel hungry between meals, satisfy it by eating a portion of chemical-free yogurt, or some fruit, such as a pear or banana. The feeling of hunger will subside 10-15 minutes after eating.
  • Include foods containing fiber in your diet, as well as salads without added salt. Perfectly cleanses the intestines and stimulates its functioning. fresh cabbage, carrots and beets. Finely chop the cabbage; Grate the beets and carrots and mash the vegetable mixture until the juice releases. Add some vegetable oil. This salad can easily serve as a healthy light breakfast.
  • Eliminate yeast bread from the menu, replacing it with grain or bran bread.
  • Prepare vinaigrettes with vegetable oil and soups with low-fat meat broth for yourself more often.
  • For an afternoon snack, try to take porridge without added sugar.
  • Avoid heavy fried and smoked foods. Give preference to fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs.
Compliance with these simple rules will help you restore the health of your intestines and feel rested and full of vitality!

Constipation is a disease caused by intestinal atony. Many patients do not pay due attention to constipation, citing the fact that it can go away on its own, and are embarrassed to consult a doctor on such an “intimate” issue. In fact, fecal retention in the intestines can have a very negative impact on the general condition of the patient, leading to intoxication, the appearance of inflammatory processes, and even the need for surgery.

Intestinal atony - what is it?

Intestinal atony is a violation of the tone of the intestinal walls, as a result of which they cannot contract and relax normally to push feces to the rectum and subsequent exit. With atony, intestinal motility (the contractility of the muscles of the walls of the gastrointestinal tract) is disrupted, which leads to constipation in humans, difficulty or impossibility of excreting feces. In summary, atony is not constipation, but a dysfunction of intestinal motility, which leads to stagnation of feces.

Causes of intestinal atony in adults

Atony occurs as a consequence of one or more factors that adversely affect gastrointestinal motility. It can be an independent disease (for example, genetically determined), a side effect of another disease or taking pills (for example, intestinal infections, helminthiasis, taking antispasmodics), or an unhealthy lifestyle (excessive drinking, sedentary lifestyle). In Group increased risk development of atony are people who:

    They experience constant stress that overloads the human central nervous system, which can lead to organ failures;

  • Poor diet (eating high-calorie foods with low fiber content);
  • Lead a sedentary lifestyle (as a result - a decrease in the innervation/impulse conductivity of the intestinal muscles, which forms peristalsis);
  • Antispasmodics and painkillers/anesthesia containing morphine are taken for a long time, in large doses;
  • Suffer from intestinal dysbiosis (toxins produced during indigestion reduce peristalsis);
  • Suffer from intestinal infections;
  • Have genetic predisposition to atony;
  • Have malignant tumors intestines (they release toxins that disrupt the functioning of the nervous system);
  • Smoking, abusing alcohol (affect the functioning of the nervous system);
  • Use opiate drugs (reduce the tone of the hollow organs);
  • They suffer from helminthiasis (worms produce toxins that affect peristalsis);
  • Survived an unsuccessful caesarean section.

In children

Atony in a child may occur for the following reasons:

    Hereditary during pregnancy and lactation;

  1. Stress of various kinds;
  2. Change in the nature of nutrition (for example, as a result of weaning from food);
  3. Insufficient water consumption.

The appearance of childhood atony can be prevented proper massage belly. For treatment, glycerin suppositories are prescribed, which promote reflexive rejection of feces (placed 20 minutes after the first meal) and improve gastrointestinal motility.

In older people

Senile atony occurs:

    due to a sedentary lifestyle;

  • as a side effect of operations.

Steps to treat and reduce the risk of intestinal atony in older people:

    frequent walks, chamomile enemas;

  • introducing an abundance of vegetable and dairy foods into the diet,
  • eating grated, liquid and soft foods, as well as foods that have a laxative effect, improves gastrointestinal motility.

Symptoms of the disease

There are a number of symptoms by which a patient may suspect atony. If such signs are detected, you should consult a doctor, because... they indicate a disruption of intestinal motility, and this, without appropriate treatment, can lead to dangerous complications. Symptoms of atony are as follows:

    Constipation (you should pay attention even when bowel movements occur less than once a day);

  • Bloating and gas;
  • Hard stool;
  • Weakness and poor sleep;
  • Pale complexion;
  • Anemia (anemia);
  • The skin takes on a marbled color.

Signs

Spastic type

Atonic type

Intestinal colic Pulling, aching Rumbling, flatulence (increased gas formation)
Rectal condition Mostly empty More often filled
Type of stool Most often fragmented (“sheep”) More often voluminous
Feeling in the intestines with constipation Tension, compression Expansion, fullness
Acidity gastric juice Promoted Reduced or zero

Diagnostics

If you suspect a disturbance in intestinal motility, including the presence of atony, you must consult a proctologist or gastroenterologist to establish an accurate diagnosis, determine the severity of the disease and the cause of its occurrence. Since self-medication can lead to worsening of the condition and atony!

Doctors easily diagnose atony by asking the patient about the symptoms of the disease that are bothering him. It is much more difficult to establish the cause of the disease. For this, the following methods of treating atony are used:

    A survey to find out the patient’s lifestyle, the characteristics of his diet and hereditary predispositions to atony;

  1. Stool analysis and stool culture;
  2. Colonoscopy;
  3. X-ray (in some cases, X-ray images reveal areas of accumulation of stool, which helps identify places of possible adhesions or fecal blood clots in the intestines).

How to cure intestinal atony

Treatment of intestinal atony should be comprehensive, aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease and eliminating factors that negatively affect intestinal motility.

For atony, the following are used simultaneously:

    drug treatment(homeopathic remedies that restore normal innervation of the muscular walls of the intestine, remove the effects of fecal stagnation, regulate fecal excretion, eliminate the underlying diseases);

  • treatment with diet which helps normalize stool (loose, laxative, rich in fiber);
  • physical exercise(special gymnastics that helps normalize the excretion of feces);
  • general normalization of lifestyle(fighting a sedentary lifestyle, bad habits and stress).

Combining everything the above methods treatment can be achieved quickly good result and prevent the recurrence of atony by improving gastrointestinal motility.

Treatment with drugs

When treating intestinal atony, medicine uses the following medications:

    Laxatives(for example, regulax);

  • Enzyme preparations aimed at improving food digestion (for example, pancreatin);
  • Anti-bloating remedies(espumisan);
  • Antiemetics and peristalsis enhancers(cerucal, metoclopramide);
  • Drugs that improve impulse transmission to muscles(amiridine). Use only under medical supervision;
  • Prozerin(used on an outpatient basis if other means have not led to an improvement in intestinal motility).

Special diet and nutrition regimen

When diagnosing “intestinal atony”, the patient needs to include in his menu products that facilitate the passage of feces through the colon:

    Vegetable juices, fruit compotes, jelly;

  • Curdled milk, yoghurts, sour cream, kefir;
  • Stale bread, dry biscuits;
  • Vegetable soups, borscht, cabbage soup;
  • Lean meat, poultry, veal;
  • Sausages;
  • Cauliflower, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots;
  • Barley, millet and buckwheat cereals;
  • Pasta;
  • Sea kale, greenery;
  • Baked apples;
  • Prunes, dried apricots;
  • Lingonberries, oranges, peaches;
  • Pumpkin;
  • Rhubarb.

It is advisable to eat in small portions - 5 times a day, at the same time, combine proper nutrition with walks and gymnastics. It is advisable to eat food not dry, cook or bake food, and not smoke or fry. By adhering to this treatment, you can improve gastrointestinal motility.

The absence of the following products in the diet also helps to normalize intestinal function and motility:

    Canned food;

  • Salty fish;
  • Rich broths;
  • Peas, beans;
  • Mushrooms;
  • Garlic;
  • Chocolate, coffee;
  • Pomegranates, quince;
  • Smoked meats;
  • Blueberries, pears.

Folk remedies

Promote the treatment of atony and folk remedies, including in the diet frequent consumption of mixtures made from products that have a beneficial effect on intestinal motility.

    Aloe mixtures: Wash a few aloe leaves, remove thorns, and chop. Heat one and a half cups of honey in a saucepan (the temperature should not be higher than 40 degrees, otherwise the honey may lose its beneficial features), add aloe there and leave for 24 hours. Reheat again, take 1 tbsp every day 1 hour before breakfast. within 7-10 days. After completing the treatment, take a week break and repeat the course again.

  1. Leaf tea powder: Grind loose leaf tea in a coffee grinder and take half a dessert spoon in powder form four times a day before meals.
  2. Roast pumpkin and beans: cut a quarter of the pumpkin into cubes, chop the onion, mix with the pumpkin and simmer in a frying pan for vegetable oil. When the pumpkin becomes soft, add the boiled beans and simmer for another 5 minutes.

    Remember that all this is done only when the person does not experience critical complications due to fecal retention (bleeding, inflammatory processes, tears and perforations). In this case physical activity may aggravate the patient's condition with atony.

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    Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and make treatment recommendations based on individual characteristics specific patient.

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    How to identify and treat intestinal atony

It can be strong or weak, but in any case, if violated, it causes a lot of unpleasant sensations.

Peristalsis is contraction of the intestinal muscles aimed at moving food masses throughout the organ.

What is peristalsis?

Intestinal peristalsis is understood as wave-like contractions of the intestinal walls, which help push masses of feces towards the anus. This is one of several types of motor activity that occur in the intestine. It is thanks to the correct contractions that normal digestive processes are realized, during which all the necessary microelements are absorbed, and what is not absorbed leaves the body.

In order to maintain the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract for a long time, you need to monitor your diet, introduce physical activity and eliminate bad habits. In addition, it is necessary to promptly treat systemic diseases that affect the performance of the organ. If these conditions are not met, then peristalsis may be increased or, conversely, decreased, which is far from the norm.

Peristalsis begins to occur after the stomach has been filled with food. The norm is the case when duodenum contractions occur per minute, in the small intestine - 9-12, in the large intestine - 3 contractions, and in the rectum - no more than 3. If the patient experiences disruptions in peristaltic activity, constipation or diarrhea may occur.

Reasons for violation

In adults

Peristaltic activity can be impaired due to a number of factors. Sometimes the disorder occurs due to a genetic factor or due to another disease, after which side effects began. IN special group patients at risk include those who:

  • Stressful situations constantly arise that overload the nervous system;
  • improper diet and diet (this includes fasting or overeating, neglecting a full meal, eating heavy foods that are difficult to digest);
  • there is practically no physical activity;

Row external factors, genes and age provoke disruptions in intestinal function in adults.

  • was long-term use painkillers;
  • Dysbacteriosis and various infections are observed on an ongoing basis (it is because of the emerging toxins that peristalsis decreases);
  • there are tumor formations that cause disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system;
  • there are bad habits (drugs and alcohol have a strong effect on the central nervous system, the tone of organs decreases);
  • helminthiasis was detected;
  • were carried out earlier surgical interventions in the gastrointestinal tract;
  • mental disturbances are observed (people in a state of severe mental stress);
  • available various diseases endocrine system.

It must be remembered that not in all cases the factor for the appearance of atonitis is illness. Such phenomena can be observed due to stressful situations, during which an adult patient experiences a feeling of anxiety and panic, affecting the activity of peristalsis. In any case, lack of treatment will not lead to anything good.

In children

Poor peristalsis can be observed not only in mature patients, but also in children. Many people believe that a phenomenon such as atonite will go away on its own and does not require treatment. But this opinion is erroneous, because the baby’s general condition worsens and intoxication begins. What are the causes of sluggish peristalsis in childhood?

Heredity and poor nutrition provoke problems with intestinal motility in children.

  • Decreased peristaltic activity may occur due to hereditary factor, which appears even when a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Atony is typical for young patients who are experiencing stressful situations.
  • Peristalsis worsens if the baby's diet is changed. For example, this happens when the baby is weaned.
  • The syndrome can occur in cases where little water enters the child's body.

Massage will help get rid of the unpleasant symptom. In addition, the doctor prescribes special glycerin suppositories, which cause the natural release of feces from the body and improve the process of peristalsis.

In the elderly

When an elderly person moves little or has previously undergone surgery, he may experience constipation. The use of chamomile enemas, frequent walks in the fresh air, and the introduction of dairy products into the diet will help cope with this. An important point is the presence in the menu of well-ground products that cause an increase in peristaltic activity.

During pregnancy

A problem such as constipation causes some discomfort in a pregnant woman. This symptom appears due to the fact that during this period of life a special type of hormone, progesterone, begins to be produced in the body of the expectant mother. Due to its action, peristaltic activity decreases, as a result of which undigested food products are retained in the intestines more than expected. In addition, the filled digestive tract puts pressure on the expanding uterus, in which the fetus matures. Such interaction of organs is considered normal, because they have a common innervation.

It will help to cope with this problem balanced diet and the correct mode. To maintain health, a pregnant woman should give up fatty, heavy foods (hamburgers, etc.). For the expectant mother you need to drink more fluid. To avoid stagnation of blood in the pelvis, you need to walk outside more often and minimize sitting. If such recommendations do not give results, you need to consult a doctor who will prescribe the medicine. Pregnancy is a temporary phenomenon, and when the baby is born, the body’s recovery will begin.

Symptoms

There are several symptoms that can be used to determine the presence of weakened peristalsis. First of all, the main symptom is constipation. They occur in cases where the patient has not gone to the toilet for 48 hours or more. In this case, pain appears in the abdomen and discomfort due to bloating. Pain can constantly occur due to stressful situations, overexertion or sudden physical activity. As a result, the patient turns pale, weakness occurs, and the general condition of the body worsens. If a person’s atonitis lasts more than 3 days, the temperature and blood pressure increase. In this case, a person may reject food without having any interest in it. In most cases, this type of constipation is accompanied by drowsiness. Sometimes the patient gains weight, develops allergies, or is affected skin.

Excessive intestinal motility is fraught with water depletion.

Enhanced peristalsis

Peristalsis can be not only weakened, but also increased. Excessively active peristalsis occurs when the intestinal walls begin to contract faster, with stools becoming more frequent up to 8 times a day. As a result, the body becomes dehydrated and salts and beneficial microelements are lost. There are several factors due to which the activity of intestinal motility is increased. First of all, these are intestinal diseases, such as acute intestinal infections, dysbacteriosis, oncological diseases digestive organs, exacerbations chronic illnesses. In addition, the appearance of diarrhea may indicate that the body has entered unhealthy food which has a detrimental effect. This is a kind of protective function. As a result, the patient experiences increased gas formation and flatulence begins. The patient may notice stool small white lumps are compounds of some trace elements with fatty acids. Violent peristalsis is accompanied painful sensations in the stomach, and mucus may appear in the stool.

To get started therapeutic measures, you need to look at the reasons why accelerated peristalsis. To treat rapid intestinal motility, the doctor prescribes medications that will help reduce its activity. To stimulate a decrease in the tone of the processes, the doctor can prescribe absorbent drugs that bind harmful substances and stimulate intestinal function.

Diagnostics

Impaired intestinal motility is clearly pronounced signs, if they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. This may be a proctologist or gastroenterologist, who will make an accurate diagnosis, identifying the factors of occurrence and prescribing a treatment complex. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, as this will only worsen the situation.

First of all, the doctor conducts a survey of the patient, during which the signs that concern the person are determined. To establish the exact reasons for the weakening of intestinal motility, the doctor takes stool tests, performs a colonoscopy, and x-rays. The patient’s lifestyle and birth diseases are clarified.

Treatment methods

The treatment complex is selected by the doctor depending on whether peristalsis is increased or decreased.

Drug therapy

There are many means to restore and normalize intestinal motility. Medicine offers a wide selection of drugs that can increase the efficiency of peristalsis, while increasing the overall tone of the body. You can use such improvement tools as:

  • "Regulax", which has a laxative effect.
  • “Pancreatin”, thanks to which food digestion is normalized.
  • "Espumizan", which helps to eliminate bloating.
  • "Cerucal", which can enhance intestinal motility.
  • “Amiridine”, due to the action of which there is an improvement in impulse transmission to the muscles. This drug is used only under the supervision of a doctor!

Diet and nutrition

You can improve the functioning of your intestines with the help of a specially organized diet and a well-thought-out diet. Foods such as tomatoes, lean meats, prunes, etc. can make the organ work. vegetable soups and juices, baked apples. Curdled milk, yogurt, kefir are excellent stimulants, the use of which activates sluggish peristalsis. The weakening of peristalsis will disappear if the patient has a proper diet. It involves eating small meals 5 times a day. In addition, peristalsis works well and remains active for a long time if a person’s regime is supported by physical activity.

Set of exercises

You can restore peristalsis with the help of a special set of exercises that will help improve the processes. For example, to increase peristaltic tone, the patient is placed in a supine position, after which he must make circular movements with elevated legs.

A special massage helps normalize peristalsis. Stimulation of digestive processes with massage is possible only under the guidance of a doctor who will monitor the situation.

How to improve peristalsis using folk remedies for the intestines?

Many of the patients are treated with folk remedies. This safe method for those who don't have allergic reactions, because some substances are irritants for the body. How to improve intestinal motility?

  • To reduce or increase the activity of processes, use different ways. Strengthening and restoring peristalsis is possible when using mixtures of aloe leaves.
  • To increase the efficiency of the intestines and bring it back to normal, take powder from large-leaf teas, which are ground and taken before meals 4 times a day.
  • Regular consumption of semolina porridge without sugar and salt causes an increase in peristaltic activity, which means that the entire intestine will be normal.
  • Roast, which contains beans and pumpkin, enhances the performance of weakened peristalsis.

Conclusion

A decrease in the efficiency of peristalsis and a decrease in intestinal tone are factors that can provoke the appearance of a mass of unpleasant symptoms, which means that a person experiences discomfort. In such a situation, it is necessary to immediately introduce therapeutic measures, because their absence will lead to complications.

To normalize the functioning of the intestines, there are many medications that are selected only with the help of a doctor. For a speedy recovery, natural medicines that do not contain chemical additives are used. But it is better not to use them for people with allergies. It will not be difficult to make peristalsis function normally if the patient does not have bad habits and adheres to the correct diet.

Increased intestinal motility

What does peristalsis mean?

Peristalsis is nothing more than a working process digestive system, expressed in the promotion of food processed by the stomach due to muscle contractions wave-like nature of the gastrointestinal tract. During digestion, a lump nutrient moves from the beginning of the upper regions of the esophagus to the anus.

Peristaltic movements are based on the moments of contraction of two-layer smooth muscles located in muscle fibers. In one of the layers it is longitudinal, in the other, circular, which forms the desired peristaltic wave. The intensity of wave-like contractions differs depending on the part of the organ. For example, in the small intestine there are several types of peristaltic movements, ranging from very slow muscle contractions to fast, and in some cases, even rapid rates.

The slowest site of peristalsis is the large intestine. Here the rate of muscle contractions is low, and only several times a day in the work of the organ there are moments of strong rhythmic contractions, forcing the substance to be pushed towards the anus.

The mechanism of accelerated intestinal motility

Malfunctions in the form of an accelerated rate of contractions of the intestinal muscles can manifest themselves in various reasons: features of the properties of food products, disruptions in the functioning of the central nervous system, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Also, the reason for the acceleration of peristalsis can be the formation of a soapy environment, as a result of the combination of potassium with magnesium salts, the presence of fatty acids and other enzymes.

The rate at which digested food moves is directly dependent on the state of the receptors. The more irritated they are by the factors that are involved in this, the faster and more rhythmic the contraction of the intestinal muscles.

In some cases, a high level of peristalsis is achieved artificially to treat the gastrointestinal tract. For this purpose, a complex approach is used: a special food diet and therapeutic and preventive exercises, which force the peristalsis mechanism to work in the required mode.

What strengthens it?

The main reason for the increased work of peristalsis is the presence of fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract; it is this factor that explains the appearance of bloating, seething, gurgling, rumbling, pain in the stomach, increased flatulence, and diarrhea. An increase in the frequency of contractions of the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract affects the work of peristalsis, accelerating its work. What can provoke speed and intensification of peristalsis:

In some cases, stress or nervous tension can also provoke the intensity of muscle contractions of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular the colon and intestines. The same reaction can be caused by plant foods in combination with other products, as a kind of protective reaction of the body, helping the body cope with the elimination of difficult-to-digest foods and toxic substances.

Symptoms of increased peristalsis

Increased peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract is expressed in the following symptoms:

  • Presence of pain in the gastrointestinal tract. Malfunctions of the intestines can be expressed in varying degrees of pain, which can manifest themselves both in the area where the organ is located and more widely. This symptom is explained by an increase in the intensity of muscle contractions, and this type of symptom can manifest itself as a result of organ diseases, especially food products or as a consequence of stressful situations.
  • Flatulence, bloating. An increase in the speed of peristalsis can cause bloating and accumulation of gases in the abdomen.
  • Fast weight gain. Digestive dysfunction as a result of weight gain is one of the symptoms of increased peristalsis.
  • Frequent diarrhea. This type of symptom can manifest itself against the background of various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Bad feeling. Increased peristalsis can negatively affect the general condition in the form of weakness, fever, sweating, and malaise.

How to slow down intestinal motility

Before starting treatment for the consequences of accelerated peristalsis, it is necessary to find out the reason why this type of failure occurred. In some cases it is more appropriate to use medications, helping to eliminate substances that irritate organs. This will normalize the work and facilitate the removal of material that can provoke inflammatory processes, reduce the frequency of stools and organize high-quality digestion of food.

In cases where the use of medicinal substances is contraindicated, experts advise using recipes taken from traditional medicine. There are a lot of different products, both industrial and plant origin, which in combination, or separately, inhibit and reduce the work of peristalsis.

Drugs

When choosing the drugs needed to slow down the contractions of the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, experts advise paying attention first of all to the method of influence. Here it is important to accurately determine the category of medications that inhibit peristalsis:

  • Enterosorbents. The simplest, most affordable and most effective remains the same Activated carbon. When consumed, this drug neutralizes and absorbs harmful and toxic microorganisms, which are then eliminated from the body naturally. You can also note: Polysorb, Enterosgel, Polyphepan, Carbopect, Atoxil, Polifan, Neosmectin and of course Smecta.
  • Pribiotics. Medicines of this type are created on the basis of special microflora containing a composition of bacteria useful in their properties. The principle of action of pribiotics is to organize the microflora necessary for normal digestion in the gastrointestinal tract, by settling the necessary bacteria, which ensure the stability of peristalsis after a certain period of time. Probiotic preparations: Bifidumbacterin, Linex, Bifiform, Lactobacterin, Baktistatin, Norbactin, Acylact and others.
  • Antibacterial and antimicrobial drugs. This type of treatment involves the use of antibiotics that suppress the work of bacteria and microbes, this is especially important in cases where the presence of E. coli and other harmful microorganisms. For example: Levomycetin, Metronidazole, Alpha Normix, Enterofuril, Intetrix, Intestopan.
  • Drugs that slow down peristalsis. This type of medication is designed to calm muscle contractions, especially in the colon, which in turn reduces the frequency of diarrhea. These same drugs are used for chronic diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome - Imodium, Loperamide, Stoperan, Loflatil, Lopedium.

Foods that slow down peristalsis

The list of food products that can reduce the activity of peristalsis includes the following names:

  • Hot or warm drinks: cocoa, tea, coffee.
  • Wines from natural grapes.
  • Fresh pastries and other bakery products.
  • Any types of jelly prepared on the basis of starch.
  • Rice water, porridge.
  • Chocolate.
  • Vegetable purees, pureed unsaturated soups.
  • Fruits and berries: chokeberry, pears, bird cherry, quince.

How to improve and strengthen intestinal motility if it is impaired?

Intestinal motility is the process of muscular contractions of its individual sections to move chyme (a piece of food). The nervous system is involved in this process. Such contractions are involuntary, more instinctive and beyond human control.

In a normal state, motility works in accordance with needs - that is, if there is a need to move food further along the digestive tract. However, under the influence of unfavorable factors, intestinal motility is impaired, and as a result, certain problems with human health begin to arise. It is worth understanding in more detail the principle of action of the small and large intestines.

Intestinal motility - principle of operation

The intestine itself is divided into separate segments in which periodic contractions occur, causing the chyme to mix within the intestine. In addition to these contractions, contraction is also carried out according to the pendulum principle (alternating contraction of the longitudinal and circular muscles of the intestine).

As a result, inside small intestine The chyme is mixed, moving back and forth, and at the same time moves towards the large intestine. The speed of this movement will be determined by various factors: from the nature and structure of the food to the condition autonomic system. In this case, the parasympathetic department of the autonomic nervous system is aimed at enhancing the work of the intestines, while the sympathetic department is aimed at inhibition.

Also, certain factors affect the activity and motility of the small intestine. In particular, these are:

  • acidity;
  • alkaline environment;
  • presence of salt solutions.

Between the small and large intestines there is a sphincter that allows chyme to pass into the large intestine but prevents it from returning to the small intestine. It is called the Bauhinian valve, and it acts as a valve. Chyme enters the large intestine in small portions every 2-3 minutes.

Colon

The movements produced by the muscles of the colon are aimed primarily at completely filling it with feces. In this case, the movements can be very intense. Similar movements occur in the body several times a day. Food enters the large intestine 3-4 hours after its consumption; it takes a day to completely fill it, and the emptying cycle lasts from 2 to 3 days.

The pressure gradually increases, which causes the call to defecate. The act itself involves the work of two sphincters - internal and external. In addition, peristalsis is involved in this process, as well as the abdominal muscles, which provide the necessary pressure. At the same time, control over the internal sphincter is impossible. While with external person able to manage. This process is regulated by located in lumbar region spinal cord centers, as well as the hypothalamus. Thus, normal motility of the large intestine is ensured.

Forms of intestinal motility disorders

Intestinal obstruction

It may result from paralysis or be mechanical. In the first case, the cause of paralytic obstruction may be overgrown intestinal tissue, the ingrowth of one intestine into another, or the presence of some foreign object.

It can occur either as a result of injury or after inflammation (especially in children). Symptoms in in this case rarely appear. In some cases, abdominal bloating and vomiting are characteristic.

In turn, mechanical obstruction is much more pronounced. She is accompanied severe pain, gagging, it is accompanied by increased intestinal motility. This stage allows defecation. After which there is a pause, the pain subsides, but gradually feces begin to accumulate and rot in the intestines.

As a result, increased gas formation begins, the intestinal walls expand, and peritonitis often forms. Vomiting intensifies, and gradually feces join the watery-bilious secretions. Dehydration occurs. Death of intestinal tissue may occur and, as a result, a threat to life. Therefore, if you suspect an obstruction, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Congenital anomalies

Still in progress intrauterine development Abnormalities may occur, since during this period the position of the intestines and stomach changes several times. The anomalies are that this may not happen to a sufficient extent and, as a result, the intestines end up in the wrong place.

Such an anomaly will not necessarily pose a health hazard, but intestinal motility disorders may occur. And in some cases - obstruction, then surgery will be required.

Stenosis and atresia

They can be localized in any area of ​​both the small and large intestines. In this case, the symptoms can be very similar to obstruction.

Stenoses form already in the first days of a child’s life, and atresias are the formation of fistulas that allow feces to pass through. In this case, surgical intervention is required.

Dyskinesia

Dyskinesia is a violation of intestinal motility, both in the direction of weakening and intensifying. Weakening is usually accompanied by bloating, flatulence, dull pain in the navel, and difficulty breathing. In some cases there may also be unpleasant feeling in the area of ​​the heart.

Increased intestinal motility is accompanied by loose and semi-liquid stools, in some cases with elements of undigested parts of food, fermentation and rumbling sounds in the stomach.

These are not all forms of intestinal motility disorders, so in case of any ailments, it is better to immediately consult a doctor and undergo appropriate diagnostics.

Reasons why gastric and intestinal motility is impaired

Malfunctions in the entire digestive tract and in the functioning of the intestines especially often arise as a result of exposure to many unfavorable factors. These include the following:

  • Dietary disorder. This factor is the cause of almost all digestive disorders, since especially in modern world There is a lot of food that is difficult to digest and causes some harm to the body. It is very important for health to adhere to proper nutrition.
  • Various chronic diseases. Moreover, diseases of both the intestines themselves and the gallbladder, liver, pancreas and other organs.
  • Intestinal tumors. Both malignant and benign tumors can cause serious disturbances in intestinal motility.
  • Operations. Surgical intervention on organs abdominal cavity can also cause intestinal motility disorders.
  • Physical inactivity. An inactive lifestyle, when a person is constantly at rest, without any physical activity.
  • Age. In some cases, with age, disturbances occur in the functioning of many systems, including the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Genetic predisposition. Sometimes such disorders are congenital, hereditary.
  • Stress. Stress, nervous tension and disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system are directly reflected in the state of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Medications. Some of the accepted medicines may have a certain effect on intestinal function, including causing motility disorders.

At the same time, regular eating disorders, the predominance of unhealthy foods in the diet, and frequent snacks “on the go” often cause constipation. As a result of such food, which consists mainly of starch, flour and sugar, fermentation and putrefaction processes begin in the intestines. Toxic substances released in this process penetrate through the walls to other organs of the abdominal cavity. As a result, the body very quickly becomes slagged, and in the intestine itself, fecal stones form, which, as they pass, damage the mucous membrane. As a result:

  • motor skills are impaired;
  • constipation occurs;
  • blood stagnation, which leads to the formation of hemorrhoids;
  • colon polyps and tumors form.

In addition, an overly passive lifestyle also causes stagnant processes in the body, which lead to disruption of its functioning. Therefore, it is very important to follow a diet, sleep and rest, choose a diet based on the principles of proper nutrition, and regularly give yourself a little physical activity.

How to improve intestinal motility?

In some cases, they try to limit themselves to drug treatment only. However, only comprehensive measures aimed at improving the condition can achieve the necessary results.

That is, for effective improvement Intestinal motility needs to be combined with drug treatment + additional support with folk remedies + review of diet + physical activity.

Medicines

For treatment, agents are usually used that affect intestinal motility, while increasing the tone of its muscles. Any medications are prescribed exclusively by a doctor in accordance with the situation and cause of the disease; below are only the most popular remedies for reference.

First of all, laxatives are prescribed, due to which the work of intestinal motility is enhanced, and it empties faster. The range of laxatives is currently very wide and the choice of the most suitable drug will depend primarily on which part of the intestine needs to be affected. Three main groups can be distinguished:

  • Effect on the entire intestine. The most powerful and fast-acting laxatives are Epsom and Glauber's salts. The effect occurs within 1-2 hours after administration, which is especially important for acute constipation.
  • Effect on the small intestine. One of these means is Castor oil Its action is aimed at enhancing the motility of the small intestine, facilitating the movement of chyme, and accelerating the process of removing contents into the large intestine.
  • Colon. Most laxatives specifically target the large intestine. These can be either synthetic or herbal preparations and take the form of tinctures, mixtures, ointments, tablets, suppositories, drops. Thanks to the effects of these drugs, intestinal motility is enhanced.

Among the synthetic drugs, we can distinguish such as Guttalax and Phenolphtolein. However, you should be careful when taking them, since, despite the effectiveness of their effects, they may have a number of contraindications, and therefore should be prescribed only with a doctor’s prescription.

Among medicinal herbs can be distinguished:

In addition to drugs whose action is aimed at normalizing intestinal motility, the course of therapy additionally includes drugs that have a calming effect on the central nervous system.

Diet and proper nutrition are the basis of effective treatment

Nutrition plays a significant role in normalizing intestinal motility. Since it is usually violations in the diet that lead to problems in the gastrointestinal tract. At the same time, in addition to the condition of healthy eating, it is also worth remembering that different products may have varying effects on bowel function. And they can be conditionally divided into two separate groups:

Foods that enhance intestinal motility
  • Any cold drinks, regardless of whether it is water or, for example, kvass or fruit drink.
  • Fermented milk products. All fermented milk products can be included in this category.
  • Vegetables. Especially those that contain large amounts of fiber.
  • Fruits. Especially those that will contain a large amount of fiber. In addition, they must have a sour taste.
  • Oatmeal, barley and buckwheat porridge.
  • Bran.
  • Seafood, including seaweed.
  • Nuts.
  • Greenery.
Foods that reduce intestinal motility
  • Any hot drinks.
  • Consumption of products made from white flour.
  • Sweets, chocolate.
  • Products containing starch.
  • Any meat and protein dishes.
  • Some types of fruits and berries (for example, pear, quince, bird cherry).

For normal operation intestines, it is better to structure your diet in such a way that fresh vegetables and fruits prevail over thermally processed foods. Additional consumption of freshly squeezed juices also has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the entire gastrointestinal tract.

At the same time, it is no less important to follow a diet - do not allow too long breaks between meals, break them into small portions, do not overeat and do not gorge yourself at night.

Exercises to strengthen intestinal motility

In order to improve intestinal function, it is necessary to provide proper physical activity for the body. The best exercises is any anaerobic load. In addition, you can additionally perform a daily abdominal massage - which will not only have a beneficial effect on the condition of the abdominal organs, but will also help relax the central nervous system. There are also additional exercises for intestinal motility. All of them are aimed, first of all, at strengthening the abdominal press.

  1. Raising the body. From a lying position, legs bent and standing on the floor, the abdominal muscles lift the body.
  2. Raising your legs. Also, the legs are raised from a lying position, while the body remains fixed on the floor. In some cases, you can imitate eating on a bicycle with your feet - this will lighten the load, but at the same time the desired impact will be provided.
  3. Lying on your back, you need to clasp your shins with your hands and press your knees to your chest.
  4. While kneeling, straighten one leg at a time back.
  5. Squats. It is advisable to keep your legs parallel to the floor and do this exercise slowly.

Exercises allow you to restore bowel function, but before you start doing them, you should definitely consult a doctor, since at least some kind of stress is not always acceptable. Such exercises are an addition to the complex of basic therapy and excellent remedy prevention.

In any case, in no case should you treat any intestinal problems yourself, since if the disease is serious enough, then untimely assistance can lead to a serious threat to life. Therefore, if any problems suddenly arise, you should immediately consult a doctor.

The digestive system is one of the main mechanisms in human life. But at the same time, her organs begin to lose their functions first. An important point in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is intestinal motility. It can be strong or weak, but in any case, if violated, it causes a lot of unpleasant sensations.

Peristalsis is contraction of the intestinal muscles aimed at moving food masses throughout the organ.

What is peristalsis?

Intestinal peristalsis is understood as wave-like contractions of the intestinal walls, which help push masses of feces towards the anus. This is one of several types of motor activity that occur in the intestine. It is thanks to the correct contractions that normal digestive processes are realized, during which all the necessary microelements are absorbed, and what is not absorbed leaves the body.

In order to maintain the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract for a long time, you need to monitor your diet, introduce physical activity and eliminate bad habits. In addition, it is necessary to promptly treat systemic diseases that affect the performance of the organ. If these conditions are not met, then peristalsis may be increased or, conversely, decreased, which is far from the norm.

Peristalsis begins to occur after the stomach has been filled with food. The norm is considered to be the case when 10-12 contractions occur per minute in the duodenum, 9-12 in the small intestine, 3 contractions in the large intestine, and no more than 3 in the rectum. If the patient experiences disruptions in peristaltic activity, they may constipation or diarrhea occur.

Reasons for violation

In adults

Peristaltic activity can be impaired due to a number of factors. Sometimes the disorder occurs due to a genetic factor or due to another disease, after which side effects began. A special risk group includes patients who:

  • Stressful situations constantly arise that overload the nervous system;
  • improper diet and diet (this includes fasting or overeating, neglecting a full meal, eating heavy foods that are difficult to digest);
  • there is practically no physical activity;
A number of external factors, genes and age provoke disruptions in intestinal function in adults.
  • there was long-term use of painkillers;
  • Dysbacteriosis and various infections are observed on an ongoing basis (it is because of the emerging toxins that peristalsis decreases);
  • there are tumor formations that cause disruptions in the functioning of the nervous system;
  • there are bad habits (drugs and alcohol have a strong effect on the central nervous system, the tone of organs decreases);
  • helminthiasis was detected;
  • previously had surgical interventions in the gastrointestinal tract;
  • mental disturbances are observed (people in a state of severe mental stress);
  • There are various diseases of the endocrine system.

It must be remembered that not in all cases the factor for the appearance of atonitis is illness. Such phenomena can be observed due to stressful situations, during which an adult patient experiences a feeling of anxiety and panic, affecting the activity of peristalsis. In any case, lack of treatment will not lead to anything good.

In children

Poor peristalsis can be observed not only in mature patients, but also in children. Many people believe that a phenomenon such as atonite will go away on its own and does not require treatment. But this opinion is erroneous, because the baby’s general condition worsens and intoxication begins. What are the causes of sluggish peristalsis in childhood?

Heredity and poor nutrition provoke problems with intestinal motility in children.
  • A decrease in peristaltic activity may occur due to a hereditary factor that appears even when a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Atony is typical for young patients who are experiencing stressful situations.
  • Peristalsis worsens if the baby's diet is changed. For example, this happens when the baby is weaned.
  • The syndrome can occur in cases where little water enters the child's body.

Massage will help get rid of the unpleasant symptom. In addition, the doctor prescribes special glycerin suppositories, which cause the natural release of feces from the body and improve the process of peristalsis.

In the elderly

When an elderly person moves little or has previously undergone surgery, he may experience constipation. The use of chamomile enemas, frequent walks in the fresh air, and the introduction of dairy products into the diet will help cope with this. An important point is the presence in the menu of well-ground products that cause an increase in peristaltic activity.

During pregnancy

A problem such as constipation causes some discomfort in a pregnant woman. This symptom appears due to the fact that during this period of life a special type of hormone, progesterone, begins to be produced in the body of the expectant mother. Due to its action, peristaltic activity decreases, as a result of which undigested food products are retained in the intestines more than expected. In addition, the filled digestive tract puts pressure on the expanding uterus, in which the fetus matures. Such interaction of organs is considered normal, because they have a common innervation.

A balanced diet and proper routine will help you cope with this problem. To maintain health, a pregnant woman should give up fatty, heavy foods (hamburgers, etc.). The expectant mother needs to drink more fluids. To avoid stagnation of blood in the pelvis, you need to walk outside more often and minimize sitting. If such recommendations do not give results, you need to consult a doctor who will prescribe the medicine. Pregnancy is a temporary phenomenon, and when the baby is born, the body’s recovery will begin.

Symptoms

There are several symptoms that can be used to determine the presence of weakened peristalsis. First of all, the main symptom is constipation. They occur in cases where the patient has not gone to the toilet for 48 hours or more. In this case, pain appears in the abdomen and discomfort due to bloating. Pain can constantly occur due to stressful situations, overexertion or sudden physical exertion. As a result, the patient turns pale, weakness occurs, and the general condition of the body worsens. If a person’s atonitis lasts more than 3 days, the temperature and blood pressure increase. In this case, a person may reject food without having any interest in it. In most cases, this type of constipation is accompanied by drowsiness. Sometimes the patient gains weight, develops allergies, or has skin lesions.


Excessive intestinal motility is fraught with water depletion.

Enhanced peristalsis

Peristalsis can be not only weakened, but also increased. Excessively active peristalsis occurs when the intestinal walls begin to contract faster, with stools becoming more frequent up to 8 times a day. As a result, the body becomes dehydrated and salts and beneficial microelements are lost. There are several factors due to which the activity of intestinal motility is increased. First of all, these are intestinal diseases, such as acute intestinal infections, dysbacteriosis, oncological diseases of the digestive organs, exacerbations of chronic ailments. In addition, the appearance of diarrhea may indicate that harmful food has entered the body and has a detrimental effect. This is a kind of protective function. As a result, the patient experiences increased gas formation and flatulence begins. The patient may notice small white lumps in the stool - these are compounds of some trace elements with fatty acids. Violent peristalsis is accompanied by pain in the abdomen, and mucus may appear in the stool.

To begin therapeutic measures, you need to look at the reasons why accelerated peristalsis occurs. To treat rapid intestinal motility, the doctor prescribes medications that will help reduce its activity. To stimulate a decrease in the tone of the processes, the doctor can prescribe absorbent drugs that bind harmful substances and stimulate intestinal function.

Diagnostics

Violation of intestinal motility has obvious signs, when they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. This may be a proctologist or gastroenterologist, who will make an accurate diagnosis, identifying the factors of occurrence and prescribing a treatment complex. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, as this will only worsen the situation.

First of all, the doctor conducts a survey of the patient, during which the signs that concern the person are determined. To establish the exact reasons for the weakening of intestinal motility, the doctor takes stool tests, performs a colonoscopy, and x-rays. The patient’s lifestyle and birth diseases are clarified.