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The relationship between hypothyroidism and constipation
The thyroid gland produces and stores thyroid hormones that affect almost every organ in the body. Thyroid hormones play a role in many body functions, the most important of which are metabolism, regulation of heart rate and body temperature. Hypothyroidism occurs when thyroid hormones are produced less than normal, and as a result, many body systems will function more slowly, including the digestive system. As a result, there can be a direct relationship between hypothyroidism and constipation, which we will discuss further.
Why does hypothyroidism cause constipation?
According to the reliable website verywellhealth, the main cause of constipation in hypothyroidism is decreased bowel movement. The muscles of the wall of the digestive tract in the large and small intestine contract to pass stool. Hypothyroidism reduces these contractions and as a result, stool moves slower in the digestive system. By reducing the speed of digestion and digestion processes due to hypofunction of the thyroid gland, the stool becomes hard and eventually causes constipation.
Constipation following hypothyroidism causes depression and fatigue because this is only one of the side effects of hypothyroidism. Constipation is one of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism, which can lead to more serious problems such as hemorrhoids and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. But fortunately, there are practical and convenient treatment methods.
Besides hypothyroidism, there are many other causes of constipation, including not getting enough fiber in your diet, not drinking enough fluids, and certain medications.
Treatment of hypothyroidism constipation
To treat constipation in a hypothyroid person, the first step is to treat the thyroid disease. The amount of TSH hormone in the body should be at a level that can treat the symptoms of thyroid disease. If the level of thyroid hormone is within the normal range, but not at an optimal level, changing the dose of the drug, adding T3 drug or changing the thyroid drug can probably improve the constipation.
Additionally, adding fiber to your diet and drinking enough water can help relieve constipation. Taking fiber supplements, probiotics, and magnesium supplements is very effective in improving digestive tract movements and relieving constipation.
Other solutions to eliminate constipation include:
Fiber intake
Dietary changes are a good start to managing constipation. Try to get 25 to 31 grams of fiber per day. If you find it difficult to get enough daily fiber through your diet, a fiber supplement can help.
The best way to get fiber is through your diet. Foods rich in fiber include:
- Peas, lentils and chopped peas
- Oats and whole grains
- pasta
- Fruits and vegetables
- Berries (especially raspberries and blackberries)
- Pears
- Brussels sprouts
- Avocado
- If you’re starting to add more fiber to your diet, do so slowly, as increasing fiber all at once can make you feel bloated.
People with hypothyroidism should be careful about eating too much fiber, as dietary fiber or fiber supplements may affect the absorption of your thyroid medication.
We recommend taking your thyroid medicine first thing in the morning and then waiting a few hours before eating or taking any other medicine or supplement to allow it to absorb properly.
Fluid intake
Make sure you drink enough fluids.
Sports:
Daily exercise helps your bowels move. Even a short walk is helpful, so try to incorporate some activity into your daily schedule.
Not delaying defecation
Do not ignore the urge to defecate, do not postpone or delay it.
Changing medications:
Because some medications can contribute to constipation, talk to your doctor if you think a medication may be making the condition worse. However, never change the dosage yourself or stop taking the medication without your doctor’s approval.
Laxative use as prescribed by a doctor
If you’ve tried diet and lifestyle changes and still suffer from chronic constipation, ask your doctor about laxatives. About using laxatives to treat constipation, do not self-medicate and only use them for a short time
References:
https://www.sepalika.com/constipation/constipation-and-hypothyroidism/
http://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/resolving-constipation-from-hypothyroidism
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