Ways to Relieve Constipation Immediately
Constipation is one such topic that people avoid discussing, despite being a common digestive problem. The inability to pass stool causes bloating, gas, acidity, and even nausea.
Whether it is caused by dehydration, poor dietary choices, stress, or a sedentary lifestyle, constipation significantly affects the well-being of individuals.
Occasional constipation can be managed at home with effective methods that provide quick relief. However, for chronic constipation, it is suggested to consult the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata, like Dr. Amitabha Saha, for personalised advice on digestive health.
What Causes Constipation?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or when stool becomes hard and dry, which is difficult to pass. It is caused by a combination of dietary, lifestyle, medical, and psychological factors.
Constipation is fairly common, but when it becomes persistent and accompanied by blood in stool and abdominal pain, make sure to get in touch with a gastroenterologist in Kolkata to find out the underlying cause and targeted treatment.
Immediate Relief Strategies for Constipation
If you are experiencing constipation, here are the following quick treatments shared by Dr. Amitabha Saha to induce bowel movements in a few hours.
- Drink Warm Water
Dehydration is one of the reasons why stools become hard and dry. Hence, drinking a glass of water as the first thing in the morning is a simple remedy to stimulate bowel movements. Warm water softens the stool and encourages intestinal peristalsis, which makes it easier for the stool to pass.
- Consume High-fibre Foods
Eating high-fibre foods like whole grains, leafy greens, whole fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds adds bulk to the stool and promotes regular bowel movement. You can add both soluble and insoluble items to your diet to get relief within hours or by the next day, depending on the severity of constipation.
- Engage in Physical Activity
Simple exercises like walking, jogging, and stretching help stimulate intestinal contractions and help move stool through the colon. Even a few minutes of movement after meals improves digestive function and reduces constipation symptoms.
- Take Laxatives
There are certain natural foods that have mild laxative properties and act as a nutrient-rich alternative to over-the-counter medicines. For example, aloe vera juice, kiwi fruit, flaxseeds, and chia seeds soaked in water. They relieve constipation by softening the stool, increasing bulk, or stimulating bowel motility.
- Get Into a Squat Position
Squatting while using the toilet strengthens the rectum and makes it easier for the stools to pass naturally, and reduces strain. If your toilet is a Western-style seat, place a small stool or footrest under your feet in front of the toilet while you poop to help pass stool without straining.
- Try Abdominal Massage
Gently massaging the abdominal muscles to stimulate bowel activity and ease discomfort. You can opt for circular motions or massage your lower abdomen for several minutes. This technique helps to move trapped stool through the colon and promote bowel movements.

Conclusion
If your constipation lasts more than a week and does not respond to treatment, it is better to consult Dr. Amitabha Saha, the best gastroenterologist in Kolkata, to rule out serious issues and ensure effective treatment.