Constipation, a common yet uncomfortable issue affecting a significant number of individuals, has prompted a doctor on TikTok to share a helpful tip for swift relief.
Amid the prevalence of constipation, impacting 1 in 7 adults and up to 1 in 3 children in the UK at any given time, finding effective solutions can be challenging.
The doctor recommends a specific sitting position to expedite the process, stating that pulling one leg up while on the toilet, bending it to the side, and then leaning your body towards the same side can facilitate a faster bowel movement.
This posture aligns with a yoga position known as the ‘half spinal twist,’ a technique endorsed by Medical News Today for easing constipation.
Highlighting the importance of seeking medical advice for persistent constipation issues, the doctor underscores that, if not alleviated by quick tricks or dietary adjustments, consulting a GP is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.
The NHS outlines constipation symptoms, including infrequent bowel movements, unusual stool characteristics (dry, hard, or lumpy), straining or pain during bowel movements, a sensation of incomplete bowel emptying, and accompanying symptoms like stomach ache or a general feeling of unwellness.
The article emphasises that caregivers should be attentive to behavioural changes in those they are looking after, as signs of constipation may not always be evident, potentially manifesting as confusion or discomfort.