However, if these fail to provide relief, you may be considering laxative options.
There are various types of laxatives, and they work in different ways.
For example, some soften the stool, while others help the lower intestines eliminate stool.
Getty Images /globalmoments
Getty Images /globalmoments
1.
Bulk-Forming Laxatives
Bulk-forming laxatives add fiber to the stool, helping the stool absorb more water.
This leads to stools that are larger, softer, and easier to pass.
Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the safest key in of laxative.
Examples of bulk-forming laxatives areMetamucil, FiberCon, andCitrucel.
Experts recommend starting with a lower dose and slowly increasing as needed until you get the desired results.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking a bulk-forming laxative.
When used for occasionalconstipation, products likeMetamucilcan take anywhere from 12 hours to three days to work.
They may help you go more often and make it easier to go to the bathroom.
However, sometimes they may not help symptoms like pain and bloating, and may even worsen these symptoms.
MiraLaxmay take two to four days to result in bowel movement.
Common side effects of MiraLax include nausea, bloating, cramping, and gas.
Examples of stimulant laxatives includeSenokot(senna) and Dulcolax (bisacodyl).
Stimulant laxatives that are taken by mouth generally work within six to eight hours.
Some stimulant laxatives are available as suppositories, which are inserted directly into the rectum.
These work faster, in as little as 15 to 60 minutes.
Stimulant laxatives are generally recommended for use only for short periods of time.
Taking them for longer can affect the bowel’s function, which can actually worsen constipation.
Stool Softeners
Stool softeners help bring fluid into the stools, making them softer and easier to pass.
Colace (docusate) is a commonly used stool softener.Stool softeners are sometimes used after birth or after surgery.
Side effects may include nausea and stomach discomfort or cramping.
Stool softeners generally take one to three days to start working.
Which Laxatives Do Experts Recommend?
There is little clinical data on treating occasional constipationmost data focus on people with ongoing constipation.
Different laxatives work in different ways, with some working faster and others more slowly.
These are called combination laxatives.
Check the label before purchasing a laxative to ensure you go for the correct one.
If you are not sure, check with the pharmacist.
Do Laxatives Cause Side Effects?
Like any medication, laxatives can cause side effects.
Others use laxatives to venture to lose weight, but laxatives do not help people lose weight.
There are various types of laxatives that can effectively treat constipation.
Each punch in works differently and each should be used cautiously.
Cornell Health.Laxative use: what to know.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Laxatives: OTC Products for Constipation.
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, Inc.Laxatives.
American College of Gastroenterology.Constipation and defecation problems overview.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Definition & facts for constipation.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Symptoms & causes of constipation.
