Constipation

🌿 Understanding Constipation

Gentle, Root-Cause Relief—Not Just a Quick Fix

Constipation is more than just an occasional discomfort—it’s a signal from your body that something deeper may be out of balance. Whether you’re experiencing infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, bloating, or a sense of incomplete elimination, chronic constipation can impact energy, mood, and even hormonal function.

What Causes Constipation?

Every patient is unique, but some of the most common root causes Dr. Wafaa investigates include:

• Slow digestion due to hypothyroidism or hormone imbalance
• Food sensitivities or low-fiber diets
• Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance
• Gut flora disruptions (dysbiosis, SIBO)
• Stress or nervous system dysregulation
• Overuse of laxatives or certain medications

Dr. Wafaa’s Personalized Approach

Dr. Wafaa Matti, NMD addresses constipation by treating the whole person, not just the symptom. Through advanced functional testing, lifestyle assessment, and gut-focused care, she builds a tailored plan to help you restore regularity—gently and naturally.

Treatment may include:

• Herbal and nutritional support to stimulate natural motility
• Stress and adrenal support to regulate the gut-brain axis
• Dietary recommendations based on your unique needs
• Probiotics or targeted antimicrobials if imbalances are found
• Hormonal balancing when thyroid or estrogen levels are involved

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Constipation

When Your Gut Speaks, It's Time to Listen

Occasional irregularity is normal, but when constipation becomes chronic, it can signal deeper dysfunction—and over time, it may lead to more serious health issues.

⚠️ Potential Complications of Untreated Constipation

• Toxin Buildup: When waste isn’t eliminated regularly, it can lead to autointoxication—your body reabsorbing toxins meant to be excreted.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Constipation can impair estrogen clearance and contribute to estrogen dominance symptoms like PMS, weight gain, or fatigue.
• Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures: Straining during bowel movements increases pressure, which can cause pain, bleeding, and long-term damage.
• Diverticulosis or Bowel Obstruction: Chronic constipation can strain the colon, increasing risk of structural complications.
• Disrupted Gut Microbiome: Irregular transit time affects your gut flora, increasing the risk of bloating, gas, and inflammation.
• Mental Health Effects: Constipation often contributes to mood imbalances like anxiety, irritability, and low motivation—especially when gut-brain signaling is affected.

What Patients Often Ask Dr. Wafaa

Is it normal to go just a few times a week?
Dr. Wafaa: "Not necessarily. Daily, effortless bowel movements are ideal. Less than 3 times a week may be a sign that something’s off."

Can constipation be caused by stress or trauma?
Yes—stress impacts the vagus nerve and slows digestive motility. Dr. Wafaa may include nervous system support or mind-body techniques as part of your care.

What if I’ve tried everything—fiber, water, magnesium—and nothing helps?
Dr. Wafaa: "That’s when we look deeper. Hidden food intolerances, sluggish thyroid, or gut bacteria imbalances may be behind it. You're not alone, and we can figure it out together."

🧘‍♀️ It’s Time to Feel Like Yourself Again

Constipation doesn’t have to be your norm. With holistic support and attentive care, you can find relief, restore balance, and improve your quality of life—starting with your gut.

📍 Accepting new patients in Encinitas | Telemedicine Available

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