What are laxatives?
They are substances that help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. They work by softening stool, lubricating the intestines, or increasing contractions of the intestines. The goal is to help stools pass more easily and frequently through the digestive system.
Types
There are several different types that work in different ways:
Bulking laxatives
Laxatives is bulking absorb water and add bulk to stool to help them pass easily through the intestines. Some examples include psyllium (Metamucil), calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon), and methylcellulose (Citrucel). These are generally mild and safe to use long-term but may cause gas and bloating.
Stool softeners
Stool softeners help hydrate and soften stool to aid passage. Examples include docusate (Colace). They work slowly over 1-3 days and are generally well tolerated for occasional use.
Osmotic laxatives
Osmotic work by retaining fluid in the intestines to soften stool. Common types include milk of magnesia, lactulose, and polyethylene glycol (Miralax). They are safe for occasional or long-term use but may cause abdominal cramps and gas.
Stimulant laxatives
Stimulant work directly on the intestines to stimulate peristaltic contractions. They include bisacodyl (Dulcolax), senna (Ex-Lax), and sodium picosulfate. They work faster than other types within 6-12 hours but may cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and dependency if used regularly.
When are they appropriate?
They are suitable as a short-term treatment for occasional constipation until natural bowel movements resume. Some appropriate uses include:
- Relief of short-term constipation after changes in diet, medication, or lifestyle.
- Constipation associated with illness, surgery recovery, or bedrest.
- Cleansing the bowel before certain medical procedures like colonoscopies.
- Treating painful blockages from long-term constipation.
- Management of specific medical conditions that cause constipation under a doctor's guidance.
They are generally not meant for chronic, long-term use without medical supervision. Dependency can potentially occur if they are relied on as a first-line treatment instead of addressing underlying causes through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Safety concerns with improper use
While they are generally safe when used occasionally as directed, improper or excessive use can lead to health issues:
- Electrolyte imbalances from chronic osmotic laxative use, which can affect heart function.
- Dependence on stimulant that stops bowel function without them.
- Impaired nutrient absorption if bowel movements are too frequent.
- Potential bowel damage from stimulant overuse.
- Signs of its abuse include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and reliance on it for any bowel movement.
Talk to a doctor if they are needed regularly for over 2 weeks or cause concerning side effects. Children and the elderly are more susceptible to it harm and require close monitoring by a healthcare provider.
Natural alternatives
Before turning to over-the-counter laxatives, natural remedies can help alleviate occasional constipation:
- Increasing fiber intake through whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Regular exercise and movement daily if possible.
- Probiotics like yogurt can help balance gut bacteria.
- Prunes, prune juice, flaxseeds, and pureed apple or pear sauce also offer fiber and natural properties.
- Abdominal massages may help move things along.
- Herbal teas containing senna or cascara are gentler options than stimulant laxatives.
These natural methods are generally safer than chemical or stimulant for long-term bowel maintenance. Make needed dietary and lifestyle changes under a doctor's guidance before chronic reliance.
In the laxatives can provide temporary relief from constipation when used judiciously as directed. Be cautious of frequent or long-term use without medical approval, as dependency risks outweigh benefits. Natural remedies and addressing underlying causes are usually better first steps. Consult your doctor about any chronic constipation issues or concerns with side effects.
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