The intestines are governed by the spleen and stomach, belonging to the earth element in the Five Elements theory, and form the foundation of postnatal survival. Like the soil beneath our feet, the intestines absorb nutrients from food and eliminate bodily waste, serving as the bedrock of human health. They constitute a complex, balanced system in both structure and function. The density of bacteria within the colon is astonishing.An adult human body consists of approximately 100 trillion cells, while the number of bacteria in their intestines is ten times that—exceeding 1,000 trillion. Over 30 dominant bacterial species account for more than 90% of the total gut microbiota.Older adults often experience poor intestinal health due to constipation. What are the potential downsides?
Elderly individuals already have weaker gastrointestinal function, making constipation a particularly critical concern. So, how does constipation adversely affect their health?
1. Increased risk of anal fissures, hemorrhoids, and bleeding
Hard stools frequently tear the anal opening, causing painful anal fissures.Given that blood circulation around the anus is already poor in the elderly, constipation compounded by prolonged pressure from hard stool on the lower rectum can cause venous dilation and hemorrhoids. The friction from hard, rough stool against existing fissures or hemorrhoids readily leads to bleeding.
II. Disrupts digestive function and accelerates aging
Long-term stool accumulation in the intestines impairs normal digestive activity, leading to functional disorders. This manifests as abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, or symptoms like a thick, greasy tongue coating and bad breath, impairing normal digestion and absorption.In the early 20th century, renowned scholar Metchnikoff proposed that bacteria residing in the human gut—particularly E. coli—constantly produce and accumulate toxins like indole and indoleacetic acid. Absorption of these toxins causes chronic poisoning, accelerating aging, a phenomenon especially pronounced during constipation.
III. Increased Risk of Stroke or Sudden Heart Attack
Individuals with constipation exert significant force during bowel movements, elevating abdominal pressure and often causing blood pressure spikes. Elderly individuals with severe cerebral arteriosclerosis and fragile arterial walls are particularly vulnerable. Sudden blood pressure surges can rupture these walls, triggering cerebral hemorrhage and stroke.If an elderly person has a severely weakened heart or pre-existing coronary artery insufficiency, excessive straining may trigger heart failure or acute myocardial infarction, potentially leading to sudden death in severe cases. Such cases are common in clinical practice, making constipation particularly dangerous for frail or seriously ill elderly individuals.