What Everyone Needs To Know About Laxatives And Constipation

How Laxatives Work

Laxatives help move matter through the digestive tract in several different ways. Some laxatives draw water to the stool, making it easier to pass. Other laxatives cause the intestinal muscles to contract, which helps individuals naturally push the matter out. These types of laxatives tend to be most painful as the fecal matter is still hard, yet the digestive muscles are being forced to pass it. Laxative supplements that add bulk to fecal matter are safest to use because they allow the body to naturally eliminate a larger mass, which tends to be easier to move through the intestines.

Read about the different side effects commonly linked to laxatives now.

Side Effects

Taking oral laxatives may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb some nutrients and medications including blood thinners, certain heart and bone medications, and some antibiotics. Prolonged use of laxatives can result in an electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes such as magnesium, sodium, chloride, potassium, and calcium are needed to regulate bodily functions. Abnormal heart rhythms, confusion, seizures, and weakness are common symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance. Laxatives may also result in bloating, rectal irritation, gas, cramping, bloody diarrhea, stomach discomfort, increased thirst, and belching. As such, taking them for extended periods is not generally recommended.

Get familiar with more cautions associated with laxative use next.