Do you also have constipation? Then let's know exactly about these medicines (Laxatives)

Not being able to go to the toilet properly, having hard, dry stools, feeling a heavy feeling in the stomach... These are very annoying experiences, aren't they? Many of us suffer from this condition called constipation from time to time. Most of the time, we think of laxatives that can be bought at the pharmacy as a solution. We call these 'laxatives'. But it is very important to be a little aware of this before using these.

Let's first see, what are these laxatives?

Simply put, laxatives are a type of medicine that helps make it easier to pass stools when you are constipated. Often, this condition can be avoided by making small changes to our lifestyle.

• Eating lots of high-fiber foods (for example, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and brown rice).
• Drinking enough water every day.
• Getting some exercise .
• Sometimes eating things like yogurt that contain probiotics .

However, if you've tried these things and your constipation still hasn't subsided, it's normal to feel like using a laxative. These are available over-the-counter from pharmacies, supermarkets and online. They may go by different names, such as ' laxatives ', 'stool softeners' or 'fiber supplements'.

Who Really Needs Laxatives?

Laxatives are not something everyone needs to take all the time. There are some special situations where they may be necessary.

• If you have occasional constipation that does not improve despite the lifestyle changes mentioned above.
• If you have a chronic medical condition that causes constipation, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis .
• When it is necessary to completely cleanse the colon before certain medical tests (for example , a colonoscopy) .

How do these laxatives work?

There are several types of laxatives, each of which works in a different way, but basically they make it easier to pass stool by making changes to our digestive system.

• Some types draw water into our stools, softening them so they can be passed out more easily.
• Some other types stimulate the muscles in our colon, helping to push stool out.
• Some types use both methods.

Types of Laxatives and their Examples

There are several types of laxatives that you can buy without a prescription. However, long-term use of these can cause side effects and can make constipation worse. Therefore, these should only be used for occasional constipation.

Laxatives that are only available on medical prescription

If you have chronic constipation, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) , or constipation caused by certain painkillers (opioids) , your doctor may prescribe a special type of laxative. Examples include (Lactulose), (Linaclotide), and (Lubiprostone) . Never use these without medical advice.

How to use laxatives correctly?

To get the most out of a laxative and minimize side effects, it is essential to use it correctly .

Laxatives come in different forms:

• Pills: Tablets or capsules that are swallowed by mouth.
• Powders: Powders that are dissolved in water or another liquid and drunk.
• Liquids or syrups: Liquids that can be measured and drunk.
• Suppositories: Small, soluble capsules that are inserted into the rectum.
• Enemas: Small squeeze bottles that squirt liquid into the rectum.

How long does it take for a laxative to work?

It depends on the type you use. For example, enemas and suppositories can take effect within minutes or hours . But they are more likely to cause side effects like stomach upset and diarrhea.

Milder types like bulk-forming may take a day or two to work, but they have much fewer side effects.

Let's also know about side effects and risks.

Many side effects can be avoided by following the instructions exactly.

Common side effects:

• Filling the stomach and expelling air.
• Stomach ache.
• Feeling like vomiting.
• Dehydration: This is a risk when using laxatives (bulk-forming, osmotic) that draw water from the body. That's why the instructions specifically mention "drink plenty of water."

Serious conditions that may occur due to incorrect use:

Laxatives can cause serious complications if used for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, you should seek medical advice, and you may even need to go to the ETU (Emergency Treatment Unit) .

• Electrolyte imbalance: An imbalance in the amount of salt and water in the body.
• Chronic constipation: When stimulant laxatives are used for a long time, the muscles in the intestines become weak, making it impossible to have a bowel movement without medication.
• Intestinal obstruction.
• Severe diarrhea.

One of the biggest drawbacks of laxatives is that they mask the underlying condition that is causing your constipation. Laxatives only temporarily treat the symptoms, not the cause. So if you are experiencing frequent constipation, it is important to see a doctor to find the real cause rather than relying on laxatives.

When do you need to see a doctor?

Be sure to seek medical advice in the following cases:

• If constipation does not improve despite lifestyle changes.
• If you use a laxative from the pharmacy but it doesn't help.
• If you have frequent constipation.
• If you experience side effects such as severe stomach pain and diarrhea.

If nothing is going right, don't suffer alone , talk to your doctor and get the help and guidance you need.

Constipation, Dry Stomach, Laxatives, Virechaka, Medicine to get rid of the stomach, Stool, Side Effects