Stimulant laxatives (such as senna or bisacodyl) promote contraction of the intestines, promoting the movement of stools through the bowel.īowel cleansing preparations are not treatments for constipation.Osmotic laxatives (such as lactulose, and magnesium sulfate/hydroxide) draw fluid into the bowel and soften stools.These moisten and lubricate the stool making it easier to pass Emollient stool softeners (such as docusate).These absorb water in the bowel and swell to bulk out the stool making it softer and easier to pass Bulk-forming laxatives (such as fiber, psyllium, or polycarbophil).Laxatives should generally not be used long-term unless under medical supervision because they can cause electrolyte disturbances (such as low potassium levels), dehydration, and contribute to a sluggish bowel.īefore using a laxative, lifestyle changes, such as drinking more fluid, exercising, and increasing the amount of vegetables and fiber in the diet should be tried first. Constipation is usually defined as " The passage of hard stools less frequently than the person's normal bowel pattern". People's bowel habits vary and it does not mean that somebody is constipated if they do not pass a bowel motion every day. Laxatives are used to treat constipation if lifestyle changes have failed to resolve the constipation or if the person has a medical condition (such as angina) that may be exacerbated by straining.īefore taking a laxative it is important to be sure the person is actually constipated and that the constipation is not due to an underlying, undiagnosed condition. Laxatives may also be called cathartics or purgatives. Some soften or loosen up the stool, while others increase how frequently the large colon contracts which helps move the stool along the bowel. There are several different types available (see differences below) and each type works in a particular way. Laxatives are medicines that help resolve constipation or empty the bowel of fecal matter before procedures or surgery involving the lower bowel.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |