Things you need to know about Psyllium!

Do you also often have a problem with constipation? Do you also struggle with things like bloating and stomach discomfort? If so, you must have heard the word 'fiber'. Today we are going to talk about Psyllium, a very useful type of fiber that is popular among many people. Some people also call it shrimp. So let's see what it really does and how to use it.

What exactly is Psyllium?

Simply put, psyllium is a type of soluble fiber derived from a plant. It can be very helpful for your digestive system and heart health.

Think of it like a sponge. When you mix it with water, it absorbs water and swells, becoming a thick gel-like substance. As this gel travels through your intestines, it does two main things:

1. Easier bowel movements: This gel combines with your stool and increases its bulk. The intestinal walls then feel like, "Okay, now I need to push this out." This stimulates bowel movements, relieves constipation, and makes bowel movements much easier.

2. Lowers cholesterol: This is another amazing thing. The cholesterol and bile in the food we eat stick to this gel and prevent it from being absorbed into the body. This also helps in controlling the level of bad cholesterol in the blood.

In addition to these, doctors may prescribe this medicine for other benefits. So talk to your doctor to find out exactly what your problem is.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Although psyllium is safe for most people, if you have certain health conditions, you should definitely consult your doctor before using it, as it can be dangerous to use with those conditions.

If you have any of these things, please tell your doctor:

• If you have a blockage in your bowel.
• If you have difficulty swallowing.
• If you have inflammatory bowel disease.
• If you have the genetic condition Phenylketonuria (PKU).
• If you have other stomach or intestinal problems.
• If there is a sudden change in bowel habits for more than two weeks.
• If you have an allergic reaction to psyllium, other medications, food coloring, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It is very important to give this information to your doctor so that he or she can advise you on whether this medication is right for you or not, and how to use it.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

The way to use this is very simple, but very important.

Follow the instructions on the medicine package, or take it exactly as your doctor tells you. Take it at the right time. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

What if you give it to children?

Doctors may recommend this for children over the age of 6 for some conditions. But there are special precautions involved. Therefore , do not give it to children without medical advice .

What to do if the dose increases?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Will it interact with other medications?

Because psyllium is a fiber, it can interfere with the absorption of other medications. Therefore, it is best to take psyllium 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking your other medications .

Tell your doctor about all other medications you take (including vitamins and herbal products). It's also important to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Things to be careful about when using the medicine

• If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, talk to your doctor.
• If you experience rectal bleeding , or if you have to use this medicine for constipation for more than a week, stop taking the medicine immediately and see your doctor. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
• Drink several glasses of water a day while taking this medicine. This will help reduce constipation and prevent dehydration.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like any medicine, psyllium can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, while others are mild.

This list does not include all side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor.

How do you store and dispose of medication?

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 Celsius) and protect from moisture.
• Do not use expired medicine.

When disposing of unused or expired medications, follow the instructions on the package. If you are throwing them in the trash, mix the powdered medication with something like coffee grounds, used tea leaves, or soil, put it in a tightly sealed bag, and throw it in the trash. If you are in doubt, ask your doctor.

Psyllium, shrimp, constipation, fiber, cholesterol, digestion, heart health