How is intestinal atony manifested? Causes of intestinal atony and methods of its treatment

What is intestinal atony? The disease under consideration is a decrease in the tone of the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. AT difficult cases peristalsis is absent. In a healthy gastrointestinal tract, the frequency of contractions of the walls of the colon is 15 times per minute.

Medical indications

Atony of the large intestine can be provoked by concomitant diseases of the internal organs. Improper nutrition and lack of dietary fiber contribute to the development of intestinal atony. Some pharmaceuticals may reduce fiber levels in the gut microflora.

Constipation is a common occurrence in intestinal atony. Wrong treatment or its absence can lead to atrophy of the intestinal muscles. A gastroenterologist should treat intestinal atony, since the disease is accompanied by other serious diseases.

Functional disorders of peristalsis can be provoked various factors. The main cause of atony is sedentary image life. The lack of movement leads to innervation of the intestinal walls and a decrease in peristaltic contractions. Constant stress reduces the number of nerve cells, which leads to a decrease in the tone of the walls of the organ. The development of the disease may be due to the use of antispasmodic, analgesic and antidepressant drugs.

The genetic predisposition has great importance with atony. A decrease in the tone of the colon occurs due to hormonal disorders. Work failures hormonal glands can be caused by pregnancy, menopause, endocrine and oncological diseases. In exceptional cases, the patient has postoperative intestinal atony, which is due to the development of adhesions (due to surgical intervention).

During pregnancy, the risk of developing atony increases. It has to do with mechanical pressure. Excess progesterone produced by the body during pregnancy has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the internal organs. In adults and the elderly, the onset of the disease is associated with physiological processes- aging, atherosclerotic lesions of blood vessels.

Symptoms of the disease

The main symptom of atony is an increase in the intervals between bowel movements. Often there are difficulties in the process of defecation, delayed or incomplete emptying. The patient may have digestive problems. With proper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, defecation occurs at least 3 times a week and no more than 3 times per day. Constipation is characterized by a decrease in the frequency of emptying, dryness and hardness of the feces.

The gastrointestinal tract of each person has individual characteristics, therefore, a violation of the usual mode of defecation is also a sign of atony. You may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, frequent belching, nausea, abdominal pain and fruitless urge to empty.

Bloating and discomfort often occur. Observed fatigue, since the disease contributes to the deterioration of the absorption of trace elements and vitamins. This phenomenon causes beriberi or anemia.

Diagnosis of pathology

The main goal of diagnosing intestinal atony is to identify the primary cause of the development of pathology. More often, atony is a symptom of someone's illness. To identify the disease that provoked atony, it is necessary to conduct a detailed survey of the patient. When determining the picture of the disease, the features and diet are evaluated. Special attention is drawn to peristaltic noises and the nature of bloating.

Intestinal motility functions are assessed using barium passage radiography. Conducting irrigoscopy, colonoscopy is necessary to determine the degree of damage to internal organs, assess peristalsis, relief of the mucous membrane and the overall functionality of the intestine. The large intestine is examined with the help of irrigoscopy.

Colonoscopy through the endoscopic method allows you to identify the condition of the intestine. This study excludes Crohn's disease, oncology. Biopsy and histology are performed to detect Hirschsprung's syndrome - congenital pathology, the absence of nerve ganglia in the muscles and submucosa of the intestine. If the above diagnostic methods did not determine the cause of atony, then it is caused by a neuropsychiatric condition.

Therapy Methods

Treatment for intestinal atony includes balanced diet. The diet should include vegetables and fruits. For constipation positive influence have anthraglycoside products - dried apricots, figs and prunes. The introduction of dairy products and fats into the daily diet is recommended. plant origin. Bran improves intestinal throughput. They are poured with boiling water, and then added to various dishes. The absorbent properties of bran increase the volume of feces.

To forbidden products includes tea, blueberries, cocoa. Food should provoke the stomach to work, so you need to give up mashed potatoes. Meals - 5-6 times a day. Fluid intake is just as important as diet. Drink at least 2 liters of fluids per day. If the patient has diseases related to the kidneys or the cardiovascular system, it is recommended to drink only water. Physical activity plays an important role in the treatment of atony. This is important when observing bed rest.

Before treating atony with medication, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Drug therapy is effective if the above methods have not had desired action. Prokinetics are prescribed to increase tone and improve motor functions. Cholinesterase inhibitors have the main effect on the sick organism.

At the initial stage, the use of a choleretic agent is shown. The drug used affects the walls of the intestine. It is contraindicated to constantly take laxatives. They are used to normalize bowel movements. There are several groups of laxatives, which are classified according to the mechanism of action.

List of medicines

More often, patients are prescribed secretory medicines on a plant or synthetic basis. Their action is aimed at reducing the absorption of water in the intestine, liquefaction of feces, irritation of the mucosal chemoreceptors. This group includes medicines based on hay leaves, rhubarb root. Their action is aimed at accelerating the transit of intestinal contents, stimulating the process of defecation. The disadvantage of this group of drugs is the loss of electrolytes, addiction, dosage adjustment, pain.

The second group of laxatives includes osmotic drugs (Lactulose). Polymers in the intestinal lumen increase osmotic pressure feces, stimulate the secretion of water into the intestinal lumen. The stool becomes liquid, which contributes to its easy and rapid advance. This stimulates motor skills.

The third group includes funds that contribute to an increase in the volume of feces. These are natural laxatives that are used systematically. They have no side reactions, and peristalsis is stimulated naturally (mechanical impact stool volume).

With intestinal atony, medications are used that facilitate the movement of feces due to the lubricating effect (Proctosedyl, liquid paraffin). If necessary, the doctor cleanses the intestines with hydrocolonotherapy or subaqueous baths.

Therapy for young patients

In a child, intestinal atony is treated after differential diagnosis with various developmental anomalies this body. Before being treated little patient, the doctor determines the stage of the disease. The complex therapy includes a diet for intestinal atony. Children suffering from this disease, should take food separately and in small portions.

The menu includes natural juices, dairy products. The diet for intestinal atony does not include eggs, smoked meats, pears. It is recommended to eat foods rich in fats and fiber. They increase intestinal peristalsis by changing the chemical composition in the large intestine.

Apply Plantex or extracts of other plants. With intestinal atony, treatment includes special gymnastics, which contributes to a constant and easy bowel movement. If atonic constipation is permanent, then apply special medicines. When pain occurs, antispasmodics are used. For stimulation intestinal peristalsis Prozerin's reception is shown. With intestinal atony, symptoms can be eliminated with the help of glycerin suppositories with butter, cocoa and belladonna.

The pathology under consideration is characterized by a positive prognosis, if comprehensive examination, timely identify the cause of the disease, adjust the diet, prescribe adequate treatment. The exception is organic lesion organ, lack of innervation and other serious illnesses. Prevention of intestinal atony includes a balanced diet, mandatory physical activity, timely detection and treatment of ailments that can disrupt intestinal tone.

Intestinal atony is a condition associated with a decrease in peristalsis (contractility) of the muscles. As a result, digestion and the promotion of the food bolus, and subsequently the feces, slow down significantly. Against this background, developing accompanying illnesses- inflammation individual sections or the entire intestine. Atony can develop as an independent disease. But more often it appears against the background of others - chronic pathologies of the digestive, endocrine system, diseases of the nervous system, etc.

The intestine is an organ in the form of a hollow tube, the length of which reaches several meters. It consists of departments of different lengths. Each section of the intestine has its own process:

Throughout the intestine is lined with smooth muscles. They are periodically reduced (15-18 times per minute), which ensures the promotion of the food bolus. If the frequency of contractions decreases, we can talk about the presence of intestinal atony in a person.

The reasons

This condition is often diagnosed in urban residents, especially in office workers. Residents of rural areas are practically not susceptible to this disease, since their diet contains a lot of fiber. But in some cases, intestinal atony appears in them - mainly in the presence of a hereditary predisposition.

The main causes of atony are:

too high-calorie food, in which there is practically no fiber. Pastries, sweets, semi-finished products, sausages, fast food - not the whole list of products, the regular use of which entails a decrease in peristalsis;
replacing a full meal with regular snacks. Because of this, a food lump of sufficient volume is not formed in the intestine;
constant stress. The work of the nervous system is disrupted, spasms and muscle clamps appear;
Stress is one of the factors for digestive problems.
sedentary lifestyle, decreased muscle tone;
taking certain medications, especially painkillers and antispasmodics, which reduce the frequency of muscle contractions. Also, atony can be a consequence long-term use laxatives against the background of existing diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or inaccuracies in nutrition;
age. In the elderly, a decrease in peristalsis develops against a background of a decrease physical activity, as well as slowing down all processes in the body;
postoperative condition - a temporary condition that develops after surgical operations on organs digestive tract and abdominal cavity;
After the operation, there may be malfunctions in the intestines.
atherosclerosis of vessels, including those in the intestine;
tumors in the intestines. Cancer cells release toxins that slow transmission nerve impulses. In addition, the absorption process is disrupted. nutrients and the intestinal lumen decreases;
available inflammatory diseases intestines, insufficient production of digestive enzymes.

Important! How more factors simultaneously present in a person's life, the greater the likelihood of slowing down motor skills and the appearance of digestive problems.

Symptoms

Many patients mistake the first manifestations of the disease for a slight indigestion or an exacerbation of a chronic gastrointestinal disease. Therefore, they rarely go to the doctor, which makes subsequent treatment difficult.

Signs of intestinal atony

The so-called atonic constipation - stool retention for 48 hours or more. With frequent constipation, dense fecal stones form in the intestines. They are a source of toxins. And when you exit (for example, after an enema or taking laxatives) often lead to damage to the rectum.
Increased gas formation, distension in the abdomen. They are caused by fermentation of food that stagnates for too long in the upper intestines.
Pain syndrome. It is expressed weakly, sometimes the patient is disturbed aching pain associated with intestinal overflow. The pain decreases or even disappears after a bowel movement.
Lack of appetite.
Nausea.
Difficulty emptying the intestines, which is accompanied by pain, a feeling of fullness.
Weakness, frequent dizziness. They arise due to constant intoxication, as well as anemia caused by impaired absorption of iron.
With prolonged (more than 3 days) constipation, the temperature and blood pressure may increase, intestinal inflammation develops.

Due to the accumulation of toxins in a patient with atony, a rash on the skin, foci of irritation may appear. Some increase secretion sebaceous glands, acne appears. This is because the skin takes on an excretory function and tries to remove harmful substances through the pores. Also, a person with prolonged constipation appears bad smell body and sweat - even if he regularly showers.

Diagnostics

If symptoms of indigestion appear, you should consult a gastroenterologist. Since chronic constipation often provokes diseases of the rectum, a consultation and examination with a proctologist may be required.

The diagnosis of "intestinal atony" is made on the basis of a patient interview, examination and some studies. A number of tests help assess the degree of impairment and the possibility of full recovery. Their implementation will allow the doctor to develop the most effective treatment tactics.

Basic Research

In the absence of organic pathology, the gastroenterologist may recommend that the patient consult a neurologist or psychologist, since intestinal atony is often caused psychological problems, stress, anxiety and nervous exhaustion.

Treatment

The duration of treatment depends on how the process is started. On the early stages you can restore the tone of the intestinal muscles quite quickly. Those who put off a visit to the doctor for several years, it will take months to recover.

The nature of therapy and the number of medications depends on the causes that led to atony. But the basis of quality treatment in any case is dietary nutrition.

Diet for intestinal atony

In this disease, the patient is prescribed diet table No. 3 - as in other chronic intestinal pathologies. Its purpose is mechanical stimulation of motor skills through the use of large amounts of roughage and fiber. You need to eat several times a day - at least three. The ideal option is 4-5 meals with a mandatory breakfast.

Important! The first meal within 60-90 minutes after waking up starts the digestive tract. People who do not eat breakfast are more likely to experience intestinal atony.

Should be avoided long periods fasting and snacking fast carbohydrates. When choosing between a piece of fruit, a handful of nuts, a cookie or a candy bar, you should choose the first two options.

The best snack is fresh or dried fruits and nuts

Be sure to drink a glass of water or freshly squeezed juice before breakfast. Beetroot is especially useful: it has anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects, enhances peristalsis.

Exclude from the diet: sour vegetables and fruits, spices, smoked meats, too fatty foods, fried foods, pastries, sweets, alcohol, coffee. Rice, pasta, bread and eggs, sour berries and sauces, foods containing starch are also prohibited. Everything that can cause fermentation is also excluded.

Add to the diet: vegetable soups and salads, crumbly cereals, sour-milk products, seafood and low-fat fish, vegetable oils (add to salads and cereals), fresh, baked and dried fruits. Bran, steamed for 15-20 minutes with boiling water, can be added to ready-made dishes (soups, cereals, vegetable purees, fermented baked milk and yogurts). Additionally, they will speed up satiety, help reduce the amount of food eaten and reduce weight.

Need to drink enough water. Tea, juices do not count: every day you need to drink several glasses of clean drinking water.

Medicines

A number of medications are used to treat atony of the intestine. Most are aimed at eliminating the causes and consequences of the disease.

The main groups of medicines

Prokinetics - stimulate peristalsis: "Motilium", "Amiridin", "Metoclopramide", "Prozerin", "Trimedat", distigmine bromide. Many drugs in this group require constant medical supervision during the course of administration, therefore they are used in a hospital setting.
Cholagogue. Their intake is required if during digestion not enough bile enters the intestines, which has a stimulating effect on motility: Allochol, Cholenzim, Holosas. Gentle but effective herbal preparations.
Laxatives - facilitate and help make bowel movements regular.
"Duphalac" - a mild laxative
Digestive enzymes normalize the digestion process and compensate for the lack of their own enzymes: "Pancreatin".
Probiotics normalize the composition of the intestinal microflora. They contain live cultures of bifido- and lactobacilli (Bifiform, Bifidumbacterin, Lineks). At the same time, prebiotics are often prescribed, which allow you to create an environment in the intestine that is optimal for the reproduction of beneficial bacteria.
Drugs to reduce the manifestations of flatulence (do not treat, only remove the symptoms): "Espumizan".

Laxatives deserve special attention. Most are sold in pharmacies without a prescription, so people often abuse them and harm their own health. If the correction of the diet did not help to normalize the stool, or changes in nutrition did not have time to have the desired effect, the doctor temporarily prescribes laxatives. But only those that are really suitable for a particular patient.

Table. Laxatives

Group	Action	Preparations
	Increase the flow of fluid to the intestines, accumulate fluid, liquefy stool. The action is mild, not accompanied by pain and spasms. Disadvantage: they do not act immediately - the effect occurs after a few hours and even days.	● "Lactulose"; ●"Duphalac"; ●"Normolact; ●Fortrans.
	Natural laxatives that can be used on a regular basis. Most are not medicines, but doctors recommend using them in a certain dosage during the course of treatment. During digestion, they increase in volume, increase pressure on the intestinal walls, thereby stimulating muscle contraction. Do not cause addiction and adverse reactions - except in cases of individual intolerance.	●bran; ●polycarbophil calcium; ●plantain seeds; ● seaweed; ● "Mukofalk".
	Reduce the amount of fluid absorbed in the intestines, keep the softness of the feces, dilute them. Disadvantages: cause painful spasms, lead to electrolyte imbalance.	●castor oil; ●preparations based on the herb senna ("Senade"); ●"Bisacodyl"; ●Regulax.
	They play the role of a lubricant: they strengthen and accelerate the “sliding” of feces through the intestines.	Vegetable oils, liquid paraffin.

Folk remedies for intestinal atony

Traditional medicine offers dozens of ways to improve intestinal motility, normalize stools.

Calamus and rhubarb tincture

Efficient and fast acting remedy. For cooking, you need gentian, calamus and rhubarb root in equal proportions. The mixture must be poured with 70-degree alcohol (for 1 part of vegetable raw materials - 10 parts of alcohol). Infuse for two weeks in a dark place, then drink a teaspoon twice a day before meals.

Aloe and honey

Delicious and effective way. Peel and chop a few leaves, mix with honey heated to 40 degrees. Let it sit for a day. Then take a tablespoon half an hour before breakfast.

Important! The product itself is stored in the refrigerator. But to enhance the effect, a single serving must be heated before use.

Tea with oregano

Herbal teas help to reduce the manifestations of flatulence, as well as calm the nerves, help to endure stress more easily. A tablespoon of dried oregano should be poured with a glass of boiling water, leave for 10-15 minutes. Drink a glass in the morning on an empty stomach, and also in the evening shortly before bedtime.

mint milk

This tool eliminates spasms, gently stimulates motor skills, has a light sedation. Heat a glass of milk, add half a teaspoon of mint leaf juice and the same amount of honey. You need to take for two weeks half a glass 3 times a day before meals. If you have lactose intolerance, milk can be replaced with warm water.

Peppermint milk is mild but effective

Rowan tincture

Pour red rowan berries with sugar, keep for at least 4 weeks in a well-lit room. Then squeeze the syrup, add a little alcohol (half a liter of syrup - no more than 25 ml). You can store the finished mixture in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Drink a small glass in the morning on an empty stomach.

Important! This method is undesirable for the treatment of atony in children, patients with heart, kidney and liver diseases, as well as those who previously had problems with alcohol.

Vegetable oil

A gentle remedy that will help eliminate constipation and normalize bowel function. Enough in the morning on an empty stomach to drink 1 tablespoon of oil. In the presence of inflammatory process in the intestines or stomach for this purpose, you can use sea buckthorn.

Prevention

To prevent the development of atony, it is necessary to adhere to healthy lifestyle life and nutrition. To do this, it is necessary to limit the consumption of refined and processed foods, processed foods, baked goods and alcohol. To improve motor skills, it is worth adding vegetables and fruits, cereals and other foods rich in fiber to the diet. Do not give up fatty foods, but they should be consumed in moderation. One and a half to two liters of drinking water will help soften the stool and prevent the development of constipation.

Another condition for prevention is physical activity. If there is no time or opportunity to play sports, you need to at least walk more on fresh air. hours hiking will be sufficient. If there is a tendency to slow peristalsis, it is important to perform at least a minimal set of gymnastic exercises. Especially useful are those that involve the abdominal muscles.

Healthy sleep and the absence of constant stress are other conditions that will help to avoid an atonic bowel condition.

Remember that atony is a reversible condition: work smooth muscle intestines can be restored if the process is not left to chance.

Video - Atony of the intestine: what is it

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

Intestinal atony - what is it?

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

Causes of intestinal atony in adults

Atony occurs as a result of one or more factors that adversely affect the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. Could be like independent disease(for example, genetically determined), a side effect of another disease or pill intake (for example, intestinal infections, helminthiasis, taking antispasmodics), and wrong image lifestyle (excessive drinking, sedentary lifestyle). At an increased risk of developing atony are people who:

They experience constant stress that overloads the human central nervous system, which can lead to organ malfunctions;
Improper diet (eating high-calorie, low-fiber foods);
They lead a sedentary lifestyle (as a result, a decrease in the innervation / impulse conduction of the intestinal muscles, which forms peristalsis);
For a long time, in large doses, antispasmodics and painkillers / anesthesia containing morphine are taken;
They suffer from intestinal dysbacteriosis (toxins produced in case of indigestion reduce peristalsis);
Suffer from intestinal infections;
Have a genetic predisposition to atony;
They have malignant tumors of the intestine (they secrete toxins that disrupt the functioning of the nervous system);
Smoke, abuse alcohol (affect the functioning of the nervous system);
They use opiate drugs (decrease the tone 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 due to the following reasons:

Hereditary during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
Stress of various kinds;
Change in the nature of nutrition (for example, as a result of weaning from food);
Insufficient water intake.

The appearance of childhood atony can be prevented by proper abdominal massage. For treatment, glycerin suppositories are prescribed, which contribute to reflex rejection of feces (placed 20 minutes after the first meal), improve gastrointestinal motility.

In the elderly

Senile atony occurs:

due to a sedentary lifestyle;
as a side effect of operations.

Actions to treat and reduce the risk of intestinal atony in the elderly:

frequent walks, chamomile enemas;
the introduction of an abundance of vegetable and dairy foods in the diet,
the use of grated, liquid and soft foods, as well as products that have a laxative effect, improve gastrointestinal motility.

Symptoms of the disease

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

Constipation (it is worth paying attention even when defecation occurs less than 1 time per day);
Bloating and gas formation;
hard stool;
Weakness and poor sleep;
Pale complexion;
Anemia (anemia);
The skin acquires a marble color.

signs	Spastic type	Atonic type
Intestinal colic	Pulling, aching	Rumbling, flatulence (increased gas formation)
condition of the rectum	More often empty	More often filled
Type of feces	More often fragmentary ("sheep")	More often voluminous
Sensation in the intestines with constipation	Tension, compression	expansion, fullness
Acidity of gastric juice	Increased	Reduced or zero

Diagnostics

If you suspect a violation of the intestinal motility, including the presence of atony, it is necessary to consult a proctologist or gastroenterologist to establish accurate diagnosis, determining the severity of the disease and the causes of its occurrence. Since self-medication can lead to deterioration and atony!

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

A survey to find out the patient's lifestyle, the characteristics of his diet and hereditary predispositions to atony;
Analysis of feces and stool culture;
colonoscopy;
X-ray (in some cases, X-rays show areas of accumulation of feces, which helps to identify places of possible adhesions or fecal blood clots in the intestine).

How to cure intestinal atony?

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

When atony are used simultaneously:

drug treatment (homeopathic remedies that restore the normal innervation of the muscular walls of the intestine, remove the effects of stagnation of feces, regulate fecal excretion, eliminate primary source diseases);
treatment with a diet that contributes to the normalization of the stool (liquid, laxative, an abundance of fiber);
physical exercises (special gymnastics, contributing to the normalization of the excretion of feces);
general normalization of lifestyle (combating a sedentary lifestyle, bad habits and stress).

By combining all of the above methods of treatment, you can quickly achieve good result and prevent the recurrence of atony by improving gastrointestinal motility.

Drug treatment

In the treatment of intestinal atony, medicine uses the following medicines:

Laxatives (for example, Regulax);
Enzyme preparations aimed at improving the digestion of food (for example, pancreatin);
Anti-bloating agents (for example, espumizan);
Antiemetics and peristaltic enhancers (eg, cerucal, metoclopramide);
Drugs that improve the transmission of impulses to the muscles (for example, amyridine). Apply 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 diet

When making a diagnosis of "intestinal atony", the patient must include in his menu products that facilitate the passage of feces through the colon:

Juices from vegetables, fruit compotes, jelly;
Yoghurt, yogurt, 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;
Pasta;
Seaweed, greens;
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 walking and gymnastics. It is desirable not to eat dry food, boil or bake food, and not smoke and fry. Adhering to such treatment, you can improve the peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract.

The absence of the following foods in the diet also contributes to the normalization of the work and intestinal motility:

Canned food;
Salty fish;
Rich broths;
Peas, beans;
Mushrooms;
Garlic;
Chocolate, coffee;
Pomegranates, quince;
Smoked products;
Blueberries, pears.

Folk remedies

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

Aloe mixtures: wash a few leaves of aloe, remove thorns, chop. Heat one and a half glasses of honey in a saucepan (the temperature should not be higher than 40 degrees, otherwise the honey may lose its beneficial properties), add aloe there and insist for a day. Warm up again, take 1 tbsp every day 1 hour before breakfast. within 7-10 days. After treatment, do week break, and repeat the course again.
Loose tea powder: grind loose leaf tea in a coffee grinder and take half a dessert spoon four times a day before meals as a powder.
Roast pumpkin and beans: cut a quarter of the pumpkin into cubes, chop the onion, mix with pumpkin and simmer in a pan with vegetable oil. When the pumpkin becomes soft, add boiled beans to it and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Semolina porridge: cook semolina without salt and sugar. Add some honey (optional). Consume regularly.

Video: exercises for intestinal atony

The work of intestinal motility at home can be improved by exercising, as well as properly massaging the abdominal area. This will help the intestines to move the feces to the exit, normalize the process of emptying and recover from atony.

Remember that all this is done only when a person does not have critical complications (bleeding, inflammation, tears and perforations) during the retention of feces. In this case, physical activity can aggravate the patient's condition with atony. Watch a video that will teach you how to properly perform exercises and massage the abdomen to improve the functions of intestinal motility:

The term "atony" always refers to muscle contractions and means loss of tone due to damage to the muscle tissue or nerve pathways. Intestinal atony is a state of cessation of motor (motor) function in the intestine.

Since motility ensures the movement of feces from upper divisions to the lower ones, then the main manifestation of its absence is prolonged painful constipation. How reversible intestinal damage depends on the factors of influence.

Physiology of intestinal peristalsis

The intestinal wall has 2 muscle layers: the inner one with an annular direction of the fibers, the outer one with a longitudinal one. A feature of the large intestine is the plexus of the longitudinal muscles into three bundles (ribbons).

Due to successive contractions, a wave of peristalsis is provided towards the rectum. One minute in normal conditions up to 18 wave-like movements should be formed. This process ensures the movement of food masses for their sequential processing and digestion by enzymes.

Simultaneously enter the intestinal cavity digestive juices from the common duct, bile. Sufficient motility allows you to evenly distribute bioactive substances along the intestine.

The main regulator of peristalsis is the autonomic nervous system. He is not subject to the will of the individual. Controls intestinal muscle contractions with the help of acetylcholine, a mediator substance formed on the periphery of nerve endings (in receptors).

Sufficiency of movement of muscle fibers depends on the amount of acetylcholine: with a large accumulation, sympathetic nerve impulses act and spasm occurs, if the content of acetylcholine is too low, then the muscles relax to the state of intestinal atony.

The process is associated with the predominant influence of parasympathetic nerves. To this kind nerve fibers applies recurrent nerve(vagus), which is associated with all parts of the intestine.

At healthy person all nervous processes are in balance, this ensures good intestinal motility, regulation failure is caused different reasons

For muscles intestinal wall a reflex contraction is also characteristic under the action of the food in the lumen, its chemical composition. Fiber enhances peristalsis, vitamins, on the contrary, reduce - easily digestible high-calorie substances, fats, carbohydrates. They are completely absorbed into the blood and do not affect the muscle wall.

The next most important stimulus is human motor activity. Work skeletal muscle, abdominals when walking, physical effort has a massaging effect on the intestines by changing intra-abdominal pressure. Intestinal atony is caused by hypodynamia. Therefore, the symptoms of chronic constipation are more typical for the population of developed countries, who prefer to use transport and sit on the couch.

The reasons

Intestinal atony may occur:

on failure nervous processes regulation responsible for peristalsis;
a pathological condition of the intestinal wall (for example, inflammation, trauma, circulatory disorders), which leads to blocking of nerve endings, a decrease in the level of acetylcholine;
in the absence (suppression) reflex mechanisms peristalsis.

Pathogenetic factors are influenced by:

frequent stressful situations, overload at work without sufficient rest;
malnutrition - passion for fatty foods, pastries, cakes, sweets, and vice versa - hungry low-calorie diets, fast food snacks, low water intake;
transferred infectious diseases accompanied by intestinal inflammation, the action of some toxins not only disrupts the bacterial flora, but also directly affects the muscle layer;
postoperative cicatricial and adhesive processes as a complication surgical interventions in the abdominal cavity and small pelvis;
chronic helminthiases localized in the intestine;
drinking and smoking, people who start smoking usually increase peristalsis, but then nicotine accumulates and manifests toxic properties;
therapy medicines from the group of antispasmodics, analgesics, opiates, as well as drugs violates the mechanism of regulation at the central level;
intestinal tumors, metastases from neighboring organs and tissues;
the presence of endocrine diseases, the restructuring of the body during menopause, pregnancy;
lack of necessary motor activity in illness, in old age, due to habit.

The possibility of the hereditary nature of atonic constipation among members of the same family has been proven.

Symptoms

If defecation does not occur for two days or more, then an atonic state of the intestine can be suspected. Any stagnation of feces is accompanied by a violation of beneficial microflora, the addition of pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria (E. coli). This leads to inflammation in the large intestine, causing atonic colitis.

Pain varies in character, often intermittent

Patients complain:

on the persistent bloating abdomen, abundant gas formation in the intestines;
pain in the left or right side of the abdomen, a feeling of heaviness;
weakness.

In persons suffering from atonic constipation for a long time, there are changes in character. They are distinguished by nervousness, weakening of memory, women - by tearfulness. They usually don't sleep well. Due to poor absorption of iron from food, signs of anemia increase:

dizziness;
pallor;
headache;
violated taste sensations possibly aversion to food.

The addition of an inflammatory process and injury to the intestinal mucosa with hard fecal stones is accompanied by the release of mucus with blood from the rectum (anal fissures). BUT prolonged stress, sitting on the toilet leads to hemorrhoids. The patient has pain in the anus, with inflammation, the body temperature rises.

Effects

A prolonged state of atony without treatment exacerbates the risk of many diseases. These include:

malignant neoplasms abdominal cavity (intestines, liver, stomach, uterus and ovaries in women, prostate and bladder in men, pancreas);
hemorrhoidal bleeding;
Iron-deficiency anemia;
avitaminosis with impaired functioning of the sex glands.

Slagging of the body causes a tendency to allergic reactions, skin itching, different rash on the body.

Immunity decreases sharply, so patients often get sick respiratory infections, chronic cystitis, men - prostatitis, women - suffer from inflammation of the uterus and appendages.

Diagnostics

To prescribe the optimal treatment, the doctor needs to identify the cause of intestinal atony, exclude a neoplasm, and investigate the degree of violation of the digestive process. This helps:

general clinical tests (in the blood, an increase in ESR and leukocytosis confirm, a decrease in erythrocytes, hemoglobin indicate anemia);
analysis of feces for scatology - reveals undigested pieces of food, mucus, occult blood, leukocytes;
check for helminthic invasion, the doctor will tell you the method.

Fibrogastroscopy ( visual inspection stomach) - is carried out in order to identify the asymptomatic course of gastritis. Beginning atrophic gastritis accompanied by hypotension of the muscles of the stomach, changes in the mucosa, folding. Sigmoidoscopy allows you to examine the rectum, identify hemorrhoids, cracks.

The method of colonoscopy makes it possible to examine the mucosa of the large intestine, to identify lesions, polyps and other neoplasms, signs of colitis

The most informative method is colonoscopy: under anesthesia, a probe with an optical camera at the end is inserted into the rectum. If necessary, material is taken for further cytological diagnosis.

Treatment of intestinal atony with diet

The appointment of therapy for atonic constipation begins with checking the patient's diet, adjusting the menu, and prohibiting certain foods. The diet provides complete failure from high-calorie and refined products. They are so processed that they do not represent any burden on intestinal motility.

And for atony, food is needed that is reflexively capable of stimulating peristalsis, containing in large numbers fiber and dietary fiber. Therefore, vegetables, fruits, products from sour milk. The most useful are boiled beets and pumpkin, carrot and apple salad, herbs, bread containing bran, oranges and peaches.

The fruits of prunes, apricots, plums have a natural laxative effect.

Dried apricots, figs, seaweed - at any time of the year. It is better not to eat fruits with astringent properties (pears, pomegranates, blueberries, dogwood, bird cherry). It is necessary to reduce the amount of vegetables in the diet that cause increased irritation intestines and flatulence (cabbage, legumes, garlic and onions, radishes, radishes).

Mushroom dishes are indigestible, not recommended for atonic constipation

dried rye bread;
stewed zucchini and eggplant with carrots, tomatoes;
cereals (buckwheat, barley, millet);
pasta from durum wheat.

Showing dishes of lean meat and fish, soups, broths with croutons.

The following are subject to exception:

all types of alcohol;
confectionery;
chocolate, sweets and other sweets;
salo;
smoked and salted foods;
fatty broths and seasonings;
all fried;
strong coffee, tea, soda.

Physical activity and exercise

It is important for a city dweller to add physical activity and constantly, without laziness, control the work of the abdominal and pelvic muscles. To do this, you need to walk part of the way to work and back, and in the morning add the following exercises to stimulate the intestines to the gymnastics complex.

In the position on the back - "bicycles", "scissors" with straight stretched legs at an angle of 45 degrees to the floor (the lower, the better); pelvic lifts with emphasis on the feet and shoulder blades; twisting the body up to the knees with the arms abducted by the elbows to the sides and pressed to the temples.

In the supine position, you can perform exercises for people with osteochondrosis of the spine

From a kneeling position - sit down with your buttocks on the floor alternately to the right and left, while keeping your arms extended forward, back straight. From emphasis on hands and knees - swing back and up, then move on to leisurely abductions of the bent leg to the side. Repeat on the other side.

Exercise "bar" - is carried out in conclusion. You need to stand with an emphasis on the palms, straightened arms and toes of the feet for 30 seconds to start, then bring to a minute. At the same time, watch for a tucked-in stomach and a torso stretched into an even string. Well strengthens the abdominal press, helps with intestinal atony.

The use of drugs

Etiological treatment intestinal atony are medicines that promote the accumulation of acetylcholine. Their most common use is short courses for young patients in postoperative period.

Almost all drugs of the group have a negative effect on the heart rhythm, can cause bronchospasm, tremor and convulsions, inhibit the production of platelets and leukocytes. This results in a limited assignment.

To anticholinesterase agents relate:

Itomed,
Prozerin,
motilium,
Montana,
Coordinax,
Peristil,
Kalimin 60 N.

More often, gastroenterologists recommend that with weak intestinal motility, diet and laxatives should be dispensed with. It is important to provide for the body's ability to get used to laxatives, so they have to be changed, used different forms(candles, drops, capsules, tablets). The dosage is selected individually. Reception is carried out at night. Usually, bowel cleansing occurs after 8-10 hours.

A negative consequence is the “lazy bowel” syndrome, when atony is aggravated and it becomes impossible to achieve independent defecation. It is also necessary to monitor the bacterial flora, supplement the intake of laxatives with probiotics.

The most popular laxatives are:

Isafenin,
Bisadil,
Regulax,
Weak,
Lizalak,
Weakcap,
Phytolax,
Guttalax,
Castor oil,
rectal glycerin suppositories.

Castor oil recommend drinking with kefir, mixing the composition well

Physiotherapy treatment

The use of physiotherapeutic methods for the treatment of intestinal atony is indicated in case of exclusion in the diagnosis of any connection with neoplasms, absence as a sign of bleeding. The procedures are carried out in courses of 10-15 twice a year, this helps to reduce the dependence of the intestines on laxatives.

The doctor's arsenal includes the following methods of intestinal stimulation:

patients with pronounced signs neurosis is helped by showers (circular and Charcot) with room-level water temperature;
Elderly patients can be electrophoresis on the abdomen with a solution of Prozerin or calcium chloride;
for people of average and young age suitable diadynamic currents on the abdominal muscles.

In sanatorium conditions, courses of subaqueous baths are recommended from natural sources, they not only flush out toxins from the intestines, but also activate the metabolism in tissues, since they contain biologically active substances and salts, and underwater massage helps to restore their own peristalsis.

Enemas in the treatment of atonic bowel

With the help of enemas, it is possible to bring the solution with the drug, decoction as deeply as possible to the focus of inflammation in the intestine, if it causes atony. Categorical contraindications relate to frequent large-volume cleansing enemas with constipation of unclear etiology. The introduction of water can increase spasm and pain.

It is necessary to take into account the possibility of partial intestinal obstruction and adhesions. Do not use any force to introduce fluid.

For purification, an Esmarch mug is used with a liquid volume of up to two liters at a temperature of 34–35 degrees. The patient is placed on his side, his hand raises the upper buttock. An end lubricated with cream or oil is inserted into the anus. If pains appear against the background of fluid intake, the enema is immediately removed. The patient is advised to lie down for a few minutes on his back. Emptying comes immediately.

Preliminary cleansing is an indispensable condition for treating the intestines with nutrient enemas. For them, use about a glass of warm decoction of chamomile, calendula, add vegetable or sea buckthorn oil. Put with special rubber pears. The end should be washed well with soap.

Hypertonic enema is carried out in order to stimulate intestinal peristalsis. For her, it is enough to dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a glass in water at room temperature. Do not put in patients with exacerbation of hemorrhoids.

Folk remedies

Folk recipes for the nutrition of a patient with intestinal atony do not diverge from the recommendations of nutritionists. For example, eat beetroot salad dressed daily with vegetable oil, dried apricots with berries and in a decoction with prunes. You can add one feature.

Beets do not need to be cooked until completely soft, they should be undercooked, boil no longer than 30 minutes

herbal remedies from herbs it is good to brew overnight in a thermos. The method allows you to maintain a stable temperature for a long time and maximize the extraction of elements useful for the intestines. Thus, decoctions are prepared from buckthorn, succession, flax seeds, leaves and burdock root.

It is recommended to drink green tea with oregano during the day. It is very useful to prepare honey with aloe. It is only important to cut the leaves of 2-3 years of age, first keep them in the refrigerator for at least five days. Then the shell is cut off, the leaves are scrolled in a meat grinder, honey is added and the mixture is slightly heated until completely dissolved.

Patients with intestinal atony should take a spoonful of honey in the morning on an empty stomach with a glass of water.

It is considered to be effective alcohol tincture rhubarb root, calamus leaves and buckwheat. The crushed plants are placed in glass jar, pour vodka or diluted alcohol (by volume 1:10) and leave to infuse for 2 weeks. Then you can use a teaspoon twice a day before meals.

A natural prevention of intestinal atony is a balanced diet, the absence of bad habits, and feasible sports. The fulfillment of these conditions at a young and middle age helps to maintain vigor and health for a long time.

The health of the whole organism depends on the state of the digestive tract. If a person has problems with the intestines, not only does he himself feel discomfort and does not feel well, but those around him notice his depression, negative changes in appearance, apathy - he seems to fade right before our eyes!

How external signs affect overall well-being, and excessive experiences, constant stress, in turn, affect our internal organs. That is why the disease, as a rule, has more than one root cause.

Under the influence of factors of both external and internal nature, the intestines can no longer cope with their functions. The muscles of the digestive organ, which normal condition contract up to 18 times per minute, relax or, on the contrary, are in constant tension. This violation of intestinal peristalsis is the clinical picture of the disease.

Pathology is accompanied by constipation, the duration of which increases each time. Although the process is reversible, the danger is that the person initially does not pay attention to such signals until the disease progresses into chronic stage lasting more than one year. Such negligence, as well as self-medication, which is not always correct, can aggravate the course of the disease and lead to complete violation bowel tone.

Usually the intestines are released from the contents one to three times a day. If not everything is in order with the internal muscles, the delay increases, and in advanced cases, defecation occurs only once in a few days.

What is the cause of pathology

AT last years there is an active spread intestinal anomalies. This is due, first of all, to the sedentary lifestyle of the majority of the population, as well as to the use of hearty, but far from wholesome food.

Among the main factors contributing to the development of the disease, experts call:

hypodynamia, that is, a lack of movement, which can be associated with both old age and certain diseases. The muscles of the intestine are also deprived of the necessary training, as a result of which the intensity of peristalsis decreases;
high calorie food. It’s easier for us to eat fast food than to cook a full meal. Such fiber-rich dishes, such as cereals from cereals and vegetable salads, go to modern world to the background. Beneficial intestinal bacteria die as a result of alkalization of the environment, their place is taken by pathogenic flora;
negative emotions and stress. The work of the digestive organs is regulated by the central nervous system, and if it is constantly subjected to external “attacks”, this also affects the functioning of internal organs;
long-term use of certain medications (antidepressants, antispasmodics, painkillers);
if you are not accustomed to fluid intake in sufficient You also risk your gut health. Fecal masses without proper wetting become “stony”, their passage through the intestines is difficult, the muscles cannot cope with such a load, and neighboring organs suffer from excessive pressure;
intestinal infections, dysbacteriosis, helminth damage leads to a violation of peristalsis as a result of changes in the intestinal microflora and poisoning with toxins;
abuse of alcohol, tobacco, use of narcotic substances leads to dysfunction not only of the intestines, but also of all internal organs;
oncology, malignant tumors provoke active intoxication of the whole organism;
complications after surgical operations on the abdominal organs;
endocrine diseases (hypothyroidism, overweight problems);
hereditary predisposition, and old age, the period of pregnancy and menopause in women;
a relaxing effect on the muscles of the intestine and the subsequent development of the disease have frequent enemas, the use of laxatives.

Symptomatic picture

The main symptom of the disease is a delay in defecation. They say about atonic constipation when indigestion is accompanied by a delay in emptying up to two times a week. Associated signs of the development of pathology can serve as:

painful acts of defecation, ineffectual urge to empty the bowels;
as a result of dehydration, the feces are very hard and dry;
feeling of bloating, heaviness in the abdomen, increased gas formation;
frequent belching, bad breath;
damage to the intestinal walls with solid feces can lead to injury to the organ or anus and the appearance of blood particles in the stool;
the development of anemia and hypovitaminosis due to a decrease in the absorption of nutrients;
pallor with a grayish tint, deterioration of hair and nails;
deterioration in general well-being - fatigue, irritability, decreased performance, insomnia;
with prolonged stagnation of feces in the intestine, intestinal obstruction develops, intoxication of the whole organism occurs;
with the progression of the disease, signs of serious poisoning appear: loss of appetite, fever, fluctuation blood pressure; decline defensive forces immune system and susceptibility to infection;
on the final stages the disease provokes the development of malignant neoplasms.

When observing these symptoms, indicating the occurrence of intestinal atony, it is not recommended to resort to independent attempts to cleanse the digestive tract or folk remedies. Such measures will only lead to stretching the pathology and worsening the condition.

Possible Complications

Fecal masses harden to a stone-like state and clog the intestinal lumen. They begin to develop pathogenic microorganisms, in large quantities emitting substances toxic to the body. Food components are not digested - the body begins to "starve".

The fall immune protection provokes allergic reactions and the emergence of new diseases. In conditions of increased slagging actively multiply cancer cells. The most serious consequence of not medical therapy- the appearance of tumors.

If the stool is delayed for more than three days, you should contact a medical institution.

Diagnostic methods

When visiting a gastroenterologist or proctologist, you need to tell the doctor about your eating habits, past diseases of the digestive tract and surgical operations, level of physical activity, time of onset and nature of the symptoms that caused concern. On examination, the doctor will pay attention to and reduce peristaltic noises.

To establish the cause of the development of pathology, laboratory tests are prescribed:

coprogram and bacteriological analysis of feces allow assessing the state of intestinal microflora, recognizing infection with worms;
the state of the thyroid gland is being studied - the amount of hormones produced directly affects the tone of the digestive organs;
x-ray examination small intestine for the presence of fecal thrombi and to assess motor function;
with the help of irrigoscopy, the condition of the mucous membrane of the large intestine, the degree of its extension are studied;
colonoscopy allows to exclude pathological changes in the walls of the colon and rectum (inflammation, neoplasms); for histological analysis condition of the mucosa, a biopsy is performed.

If conducted diagnostic measures do not establish the cause of the development of the disease, the patient is referred to a neurologist, psychologist or psychotherapist, since the "lazy bowel" syndrome may be associated with a neuropsychiatric disorder.

How to treat atony of the intestine

The therapy includes a number comprehensive measures aimed at restoring intestinal motility, normalizing microflora, eliminating constipation by taking medication, adjusting nutrition, and increasing the level of physical activity.

The scheme of drug exposure includes:

Enzyme preparations (Mezim, Pancreatin), which promote the digestion of food;
Medicines that relieve bloating (Espumizan);
Metoclopramide (which can be administered intramuscularly or intravenously), Cerucal reduce the gag reflex and improve intestinal motility;
To regulate the activity of the smooth muscles of the digestive organ, Amiridin can be prescribed; in a hospital, Prozerin is used;
Preparations with a lubricating effect - oils (olive, almond), glycerin suppositories, Proctosedyl, liquid paraffin, which facilitate the passage of feces through the digestive tract;
The use of laxatives is indicated only in the early stages. medical process until the voiding reflex is restored. Their systematic use is addictive.

Conventionally, such medicines are divided into three groups:

Secretory preparations, natural (plant-based) or synthetic, soften feces, reduce the amount of water absorbed, stimulate the movement of feces to anus due to irritation of the mucosal walls. These are products based on senna leaves, joster fruits, rhubarb root, Bisacodyl. Long-term treatment with such drugs causes loss of water, pain, the need to adjust dosages due to the development of addiction.
Osmotic medicines that thin the stool by increasing the flow of water into the intestines - Lactulose, which retains fluid;
Natural laxatives that increase the volume of bowel movements (bran, seaweed). Such drugs have no side effects, they have a mechanical effect on the intestinal muscles, they are not addictive.

If necessary, washing is carried out by the method of hydrocolonotherapy or underwater washing (subaquatic baths).

Fundamentals of a balanced diet

In the process of treating atony of the large intestine, it is necessary to strictly review your diet, excluding food, the use of which led to stagnant processes. In some cases, changes in diet are enough to overcome the disease. When sick, it is recommended:

Increasing the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables consumed, especially those with a laxative effect - beets, dried fruits, plums, apricots; juices with the pulp of these fruits; fruits are best eaten with peel; gradually move to rough raw vegetable food: eat more seaweed, tomatoes, zucchini, carrots, greens; food should stimulate digestive organs to work;
Add bran to your diet, which can be mixed with main dishes, wholemeal bread and bread, cereals from buckwheat, barley, millet, fermented milk products, enriched with bifidobacteria are especially useful: yogurt, sourdough, kefir, fermented baked milk, yogurts;
Vegetable oils are useful for softening the stool;
Refuse high-calorie foods (including sweets and pastries), hot drinks, too soft or crushed food, and foods with high content tannin (tea, cocoa, red wine, pears, blueberries); it is not recommended to eat rice, steep meat broths, mushrooms, legumes, garlic. Naturally, it is necessary to exclude canned food, smoked and fried foods.
Set a time for eating, eat at least 5 times a day; you should not eat up at night, it is better to finish dinner 3-4 hours before bedtime;
Drink one and a half to two liters of pure or mineral water(in the absence of cardiovascular diseases and kidney pathology).

Physiotherapy

Mobility is essential in recovery, especially for those who have been on bed rest for a long time. It is necessary to perform breathing exercises and train the abdominal muscles.

Morning exercises will take no more than 30-35 minutes, but during this time the internal organs are activated and will be able to perform their functions.

Improve well-being and walks in the fresh air, swimming, sports or Nordic walking, skiing or cycling.

In addition to exercise, self-massage helps with constipation. Spend it daily immediately after waking up lying in bed:

First right hand massage lightly right side belly from bottom to top. Do 10 easy moves. Then move on to the left side of the abdomen: from above the rib, draw the left hand down with the brush. Do 3-4 reps on each side. In this way, you will give your intestines an external stimulus to turn on peristalsis.

Prevention of pathology

With absence serious violations in work digestive system the disease in question responds well to treatment. Preventive measures against the occurrence of pathology are:

healthy eating, preferably at the same time without overeating and long intervals between meals;
sufficient physical activity;
giving up bad habits (alcohol and nicotine);
timely detection background diseases that cause disruption of intestinal motility.