'How Bad Is It Really?' clarifies the truth regarding all the habits and actions you've been informed could be damaging to your health.
Also referred as stool softeners, laxatives like Colace pull water into the feces making them softer and easier to pass. This assists in facilitating a bowel movement without exertion.
These substances are generally utilized for managing temporary constipation. However, if you're frequently dependent on them, one might ponder: Is it safe to utilize stool softeners daily?
In this context, Supriya Rao, MD, a gastroenterologist working at Lowell General Hospital located in Lowell, Massachusetts shares her view on whether long-term usage of stool softeners is secure or not.
Hint
Stool softeners usually include docusate sodium or docusate calcium as their main component and do not encompass stimulating laxative substances such as senna, sennosides, or bisacodyl. Please note that some over-the-counter laxatives might be combination (or "2-in-1") medications that contain stool softeners and stimulant laxatives. These have different impacts on your body compared to a pure stool softener.
Prolonged Usage of Stool Softeners: What's the Impact?
Foremost, let us start by saying; stool softeners do not exhibit detrimental side effects - as per Dr. Rao, even if frequently used. Moreover, there aren't chances to develop an addiction towards them.
Nevertheless, we should consider two key points here:
1. Overlooking an Underlying Health Condition May Be the Culprit
Often, regular consumption of stimulant laxatives can lead to unassisted bowel movements becoming more difficult over time. Stool softeners do not exhibit this pattern, explains Dr. Rao.
"These are fairly safe for infinite use by some individuals," she remarks. "However, persisting constipation necessitates finding its root cause."
Persistent difficulty in having a bowel movement may indicate the existence of an untreated health problem like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Thyroid conditions or pelvic floor dysfunction.
"Uncovering why someone is facing hurdles when trying to expel waste is crucial as it could be due to a variety of factors," Dr. Rao underscores.
Other potential causes might be inadequate fiber intake or insufficient hydration - issues that certainly warrant attention considering their implications on overall health.
2. There's A Risk Of Ignoring Beneficial Bowel Patterns
Being overly dependent on stool softeners might make you overlook daily habits which are crucial for maintaining your digestive system and promoting regular bowel movements, such as consuming fiber-rich diet and partaking in consistent physical activity.
Your gut health status and its overall microbiome composition can have substantial impacts on your whole body wellness, says the Cleveland Clinic.
What is the Recommended Frequency for Stool Softener Usage?
Stool softeners are designed to provide relief during temporary episodes of constipation.
Dr. Rao explains, "They're a useful tool when traveling or whenever there's a slight shift in your bowel movements."
Typically, stool softeners need between one and three days to start working, and it's safe to use them continuously for up to seven days according to the National Institutes of Health.
However, if you continue experiencing hard dry stools beyond a week despite using stool softeners, it would be wise to consult with your physician.
Other Options Besides Using a Stool Softener
A minor constipation issue can typically be tackled through modifications in your everyday habits. Consider the following:
-
Consume food high in fiber: Detailed on the Harvard Health Publishing site, fibers expands your stool, making it simpler to pass. However, majority of us don't get recommended daily intake of 20 to 35 grams of fiber. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grain into your diet will help bridge this gap. As per Dr. Rao's advice,"Fiber supplements are also an option but getting fiber from meals is far better".
-
Minimize consumption of processed foods and animal products: According to Dr.Rao these items are low on fiber content which may lead to constipation if they become a significant part of your meal plan.
-
Hydrate yourself adequately each day: Liquids ease bowel movement by softening the stool. Although eight to ten glasses a day is usually suggested, individual requirements may differ slightly.
-
Incorporate physical activities daily: Engaging in light exercises such as walking could stimulate bowel movements without needing intense workouts explains Dr.Rao.
Is It Really Harmful To Use a Stool Softener Daily?
You won't be harmed by stool softeners, even if they are used daily. However, consistent dependency on them for bowel movements necessitate examining possible root issues.
"As soon as you experience a chronic issue lasting four to six weeks, it's crucial to inform your doctor. Sudden changes in bowel habits could indicate something requiring further investigation," expresses Dr. Rao.
