Constipation is a problem that many people have, but they don't like to talk about it. Having to wait a long time when going to the toilet, straining to defecate (strain) is a really uncomfortable and painful experience. So, as a solution to this, some people use 'stool softeners' or as we say in English, 'stool softeners'. Let's talk about this in a very simple way today.
What are these stool softeners?
Simply put, these are medications used to provide short-term relief from constipation. They are part of a larger class of medications called laxatives. To be precise, they are called ``emollient laxatives.'' Imagine your stool is dry and hard like a rock. What this medicine does is mix a little water and oil into the stool, stopping it from becoming dry and hard.
The important thing is that this medicine does not force you to go to the toilet like some laxatives. Instead, its main function is to help you pass stools easily, without straining or pain .
What is the difference between a stool softener and a regular laxative?
This is where many people get confused. Stool Softener is also a type of laxative. Laxative is a general name for any medicine that makes it easier to pass stool. Since there are many causes of constipation, there are also many types of laxatives.
- Stimulant Laxatives: These stimulate bowel movements and cause stool to pass.
- Emollient Laxatives (Stool Softeners): These are the stool softeners we're talking about. They work on the stool itself, not the colon. They soften it and help it pass more easily.
That means, a stool softener is like a very gentle, gentle member of the laxative family.
Who are these especially useful for?
This type of medication is not suitable for all types of constipation. They are especially useful for those who want to completely avoid straining during bowel movements.
For example:
- For someone who has recently had a heart attack . (Stomachache is not good for the heart)
- For a mother after having a baby .
- For someone with hemorrhoids .
- For someone who has recently undergone surgery .
In such cases, doctors recommend these medications because the pressure caused by stress is harmful to the body.
Types of Stool Softeners and Natural Alternatives
These medications can be taken in various ways. There are also natural remedies that you can try before resorting to medication.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Oral Tablets/Capsules | Regular pills or capsules to take with a glass of water. |
| Oral Liquid/Syrup | A liquid medicine given to people who have difficulty swallowing pills and to young children (on medical advice). |
| Rectal Enema | A method in which medication is inserted into the rectum using a small tube. This provides quick results. |
Ways to soften stool naturally
Before taking medication, try to make these things a habit. These are the best and long-term solution.
- Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
- Exercise regularly. Walk for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Add fiber-rich foods to your diet. Greens, vegetables, fruits (especially papaya, bananas), and whole grains (brown rice, oats) are great.
- Consuming foods containing probiotics (e.g. yogurt, skim milk) also helps reduce constipation.
How to use this medicine?
It is very important to know the correct method when using a medicine.
| Type of medicine | The correct way to use |
|---|---|
| Pills or capsules | Swallow the tablet/capsule whole, without breaking, crushing, or chewing it. Drink it with a full glass of water (about 240 ml). |
| Liquid or syrup | Shake the bottle well before use. Use the measuring spoon or cup that comes with the medicine. Do not use a teaspoon. You can mix it with a little milk or fruit juice to reduce the bitter taste. |
| Enema | Wash your hands thoroughly before use. Remove the cap from the enema tip and slowly insert it into the rectum. Squeeze the tube until all the medicine is in. Squeeze and remove. Do not take these by mouth for any reason. |
If your little one is constipated, never give them this kind of medicine without first asking a doctor. They may need special dosages and instructions.
It is usually best to take this medication before bedtime. It can take between 12 and 72 hours for the medication to work.
Side effects and risks
Although these are generally considered safe medications, some side effects may occur.
| Common side effects (these go away after a few days) | |
|---|---|
| |
| If you have these symptoms, call your doctor immediately. | |
|
Especially for pregnant and lactating mothers
Constipation is very common during pregnancy. However, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, do not take this medication without first consulting your doctor. Your doctor will assess the benefits and risks and recommend the best option for you.
Take-Home Message
- Stool softeners are only a short-term solution to constipation. They are not recommended for long-term use.
- Do not use this medication for more than a week at a time without your doctor's advice.
- If there is a sudden change in your bowel habits and it has lasted for more than two weeks, seek medical advice.
- If giving to pregnant or nursing mothers or young children, be sure to seek advice from a doctor .
- If you experience any serious side effects (skin rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, rectal bleeding), see a doctor immediately.
- The best thing to do, rather than medication, is to control constipation naturally by drinking plenty of water, eating fiber-rich foods, and exercising .
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