What kind of laxatives should i take

Overuse of certain laxatives can lead to dependency and decreased bowel function. If you've ever been constipated, you may have tried over-the-counter laxatives. A number of factors — including a poor diet, physical inactivity and some medications — can disrupt normal bowel function and cause constipation.

Many safe, effective over-the-counter laxatives are available to treat occasional constipation in a variety of ways. However, it's very important to read the label directions carefully and to use them as directed. Overuse of laxatives may cause serious side effects. How often you have a bowel movement varies, but people normally have as many as three bowel movements a day to as few as three a week. You may be constipated if you have fewer bowel movements than are normal for you.

In addition, constipation may involve stools that are difficult to pass because they're hard, dry or small. Lifestyle improvements relieve constipation for many people, but if problems continue despite these changes, your next choice may be a mild laxative.

Laxatives work in different ways, and the effectiveness of each laxative type varies from person to person. In general, bulk-forming laxatives, also referred to as fiber supplements, are the gentlest on your body and safest to use long term. Metamucil and Citrucel fall into this category. Here are some examples of types of laxatives. Even though many laxatives are available over-the-counter, it's best to talk to your doctor about laxative use and which kind may be best for you.

Oral laxatives may interfere with your body's absorption of some medications and nutrients. Some laxatives can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, especially after prolonged use. Electrolytes — which include calcium, chloride, potassium, magnesium and sodium — regulate a number of body functions.

An electrolyte imbalance can cause abnormal heart rhythms, weakness, confusion and seizures. Some products combine different types of laxatives, such as a stimulant and a stool softener. But combination products don't necessarily work more effectively than single-ingredient products. In addition, they may be more likely to cause side effects. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights.

Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. Whether you suffer from chronic constipation or just find yourself temporarily bound up, sometimes you need a laxative to get things moving.

There are so many different kinds of laxatives available it can be a little overwhelming when trying to pick the right one. Before making your choice, it is important to know about the safety and effectiveness of each type. It's also important to try to determine what condition is causing your constipation.

For chronic conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS or Crohn's disease , some kinds of laxatives can actually make symptoms worse. But for more serious medical conditions, you may want to consult with your healthcare provider before using a laxative. Fiber supplements soften the stool and stimulate a bowel movement. As with all laxatives, it is essential to drink plenty of fluids. And not all fiber supplements are the same.

Osmotic laxatives work by increasing the amount of fluid secreted within the intestines, resulting in softer and easier-to-pass stools. There are many different herbs have a reputation for having laxative effects. Aloe latex, cascara sagrada , frangula, rhubarb, and senna are all examples of herbal stimulant laxatives. Herbal laxatives contain anthranoids, chemical compounds that stimulate the intestines, improving motility in the gut in other words, keeping things moving along more quickly.

These products are not recommended for long-term use and can have side effects. Consult a medical professional before using herbal remedies. Stimulant laxatives work by speeding up the movement of intestinal muscles, thus inducing a bowel movement. A stimulant laxative is generally recommended as a short-term treatment for constipation.

Check with your healthcare provider before using one of these products, since they can interact with other over-the-counter and prescription medications. Stool softeners do just what the name suggests: soften the stool so it's easier to pass. They perform many of the same functions of a laxative, but technically aren't laxatives because they don't stimulate the gut. Stool softeners are generally recommended for short-term use, but if your healthcare provider gives you the green light, you can use them for longer periods.

There are times when a stool softener is a better option than a laxative to relieve constipation, especially if you have hemorrhoids or are pregnant or both. One of the most challenging aspects of having IBS is trying to figure out what's safe to eat. With all kinds of laxatives, at least 6 to 8 glasses 8 ounces each of liquids should be taken each day. This will help make the stool softer. The dose medicines in this class will be different for different patients.

Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of these medicines.

If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so. The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine. Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. There is a problem with information submitted for this request.

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