
There are several ways to speed up the laxative process and relieve constipation. Firstly, increasing fibre intake can be effective, as fibre adds volume to stools, helping them pass through the intestines. Drinking plenty of water is also important, as dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Water helps to soften stools and aid their passage. In addition to this, consuming stimulant laxatives can speed up the process by inducing a bowel movement and speeding up colonic muscle movement. However, laxatives should be used sparingly and only when necessary, as they can cause side effects such as abdominal pain and cramps.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Type of laxative | Bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, stool softener, lubricant, saline, prokinetic |
How it works | Softening stools, increasing bulk of stools, stimulating digestive tract walls, reducing absorption of fluids in the intestines |
Time to take effect | 15-30 minutes to 48-72 hours, depending on the type of laxative |
Forms | Liquids, tablets, capsules, suppositories, enemas |
Side effects | Abdominal pain, cramps, dehydration, diarrhoea, intestinal obstruction, electrolyte imbalance, liver damage |
Safety considerations | Risk of tolerance, dependence, addiction, colon cancer |
Availability | Over-the-counter, prescription |
What You'll Learn
Drink water
Staying hydrated is key to speeding up the laxative process. Laxatives can cause dehydration, so it is important to drink plenty of water to compensate. Aim for at least 2 litres of water per day, or one ounce of water for every two pounds of your body weight. Remember, other liquids such as teas, soups, and juices also count towards your daily fluid intake.
Water is essential for hydration, and it plays a crucial role in the digestive process. When the body is dehydrated, it will compensate by withdrawing water from the large intestine (colon), resulting in hard stools that are difficult to pass. By staying hydrated, you ensure that there is enough water in your intestines, which helps to soften the stools and promote easier passage.
In addition to water, you can also try drinking hot coffee or tea to speed up the laxative process. The heat from these beverages can kick your gut into action, and the caffeine in coffee is known to stimulate colon motility. However, caffeine can also act as a diuretic, so be sure to drink plenty of water as well to stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water is especially important if you are using osmotic laxatives, which work by increasing the amount of water secreted into the bowels. By drinking more water, you can enhance the effectiveness of these laxatives and reduce the possibility of experiencing side effects such as gas and cramps.
Cantaloupe's Laxative Effect: Fact or Fiction?
You may want to see also
Take a laxative stimulant
Taking a laxative stimulant is one of the faster-acting types of laxatives. They stimulate the digestive tract walls, speeding up bowel movements. Typically, they take effect within 6 to 12 hours.
The active ingredient in stimulant laxatives is usually either senna (also known as sennosides) or bisacodyl. Senna is also available in tea form and acts as a stimulant laxative. It encourages the muscles in the intestine to work to have a bowel movement. However, Senna can be harsh on your system, so it is important to consult your doctor before taking it.
Stimulant laxatives can be purchased over the counter and are available in various forms, such as liquids, powders, chewables, tablets, and suppositories. Some common brand names of stimulant laxatives include:
- Senexon (sennosides)
- Fletcher's Castoria (sennosides)
- Senokot (sennosides)
- Black Draught (sennosides)
- Feen-A Mint (bisacodyl)
- Correctol (bisacodyl)
- Dulcolax (bisacodyl)
- Carter's Little Pills (bisacodyl)
It is important to note that stimulant laxatives can have side effects, and they can be habit-forming if used for extended periods. They should not be used for more than a week unless specifically advised by a doctor. Before using a stimulant laxative, consult your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Laxatives: Friend or Foe?
You may want to see also
Try a suppository
If you're looking for a quick way to speed up the laxative process, a suppository could be a good option. Rectal suppositories are forms of medication that are inserted into the rectum. They are often used as an alternative to oral medications, especially for those who cannot take pills by mouth.
Suppositories are available in different shapes and sizes but are usually narrowed at one end. They can be used to administer different types of medication, including laxatives. Glycerin or glycerol suppositories, for example, are mild laxatives that help to remove stool from the rectum. They work by creating a mildly irritating action that prompts a rectal contraction and emptying of the bowel. The suppository melts inside the body, lubricating and softening the stool, and stimulating the bowel muscles to contract, making it easier to pass.
- Go to the bathroom and try to empty your bowels.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel.
- Remove the suppository from its wrapping. If you need to cut the suppository, use a clean, single-edge razor blade to cut it lengthwise.
- Moisten the tip of the suppository with a water-based lubricant or a small amount of water.
- Get into a comfortable position. You can stand with one foot on a chair, or lie on your side with one leg straight and the other leg bent towards your stomach.
- Gently spread your buttocks and relax the muscles to make insertion easier.
- Insert the suppository, narrow or tapered end first, about the length of your finger into the rectum. Push it past the sphincter, which is the muscular opening of the rectum. For adults, insert it about 3 inches or enough so that it won't come out.
- Close your legs and sit or lie down for a few minutes. You may need to gently hold your buttocks closed.
- Wait for the urge to go to the bathroom. The suppository usually takes about 15-30 minutes to melt and work.
- Go to the bathroom to empty your bowels.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water.
It's important to note that suppositories should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent melting. Always follow the instructions provided with the suppository and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
Laxative Pranks: Harmless Fun or Health Risk?
You may want to see also
Eat fibre-rich foods
Eating fibre-rich foods is an effective way to speed up the laxative process and relieve constipation. Constipation is a common condition, characterised by infrequent bowel movements and hard, dry, or lumpy stools. It can be painful and uncomfortable, and may be caused by dehydration, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), poor diet, or medication.
Fibre-rich foods are an excellent remedy for constipation as they can soften stools, and increase their bulk and frequency. Fibre passes through the intestines undigested, adding weight and bulk to stools, and making them easier to pass. Fibre-rich foods also have the benefit of being natural and generally accessible.
There are two types of fibre: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fibre passes through the digestive tract intact, increasing the bulk and frequency of stools. Soluble fibre, on the other hand, dissolves in water, forming a gel-like consistency that softens stools and can help reduce blood cholesterol and sugar levels. A healthy mix of both types of fibre can help reduce symptoms of bloating, gas, and constipation.
There are many fibre-rich foods that can help relieve constipation. High-fibre fruits include prunes, apples, pears, kiwis, figs, citrus fruits, and berries. Vegetables such as spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, artichokes, and sweet potatoes are also excellent sources of fibre. In addition, beans, peas, lentils, and legumes are very high in fibre, and can effectively alleviate constipation. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are particularly fibre-dense, and can be easily incorporated into meals.
When increasing fibre intake, it is important to do so gradually to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, cramping, or bloating. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial when consuming more fibre, as water helps fibre work effectively.
Laxatives: Metabolism Friend or Foe?
You may want to see also
Take a stool softener
Taking a stool softener is one way to speed up the laxative process. Stool softeners are a type of laxative called an emollient laxative. They are gentle laxatives that work by adding a compound to the stool that absorbs water, thus lubricating and softening it, making it easier to pass. The active ingredients in stool softeners are typically docusate sodium and docusate calcium. They are available over the counter in the form of oral softgel capsules and are generally safe for most people to use. However, they are not recommended for daily use as you can become dependent on them.
Stool softeners usually take between 12 to 72 hours to work, so they are best for people with temporary constipation or mild, chronic constipation who do not need immediate relief but are looking to regulate their bowel movements within a few days. They are also often prescribed after major surgeries, such as heart surgery or hernia repair, to avoid complications that may arise from straining during bowel movements.
It is important to note that, like any medication, stool softeners can have side effects. Some people may experience abdominal cramping, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. Rare side effects include a rash, shortness of breath, and wheezing. As with all laxatives, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking a stool softener, especially if you are taking other medications, to avoid any potential interactions or complications.
To enhance the effectiveness of stool softeners, it is advisable to drink plenty of fluids, ideally at least 2 litres of water per day, and incorporate more fibre-rich foods into your diet, such as fruits and vegetables. Regular exercise can also help regulate bowel movements.
Laxatives and Colonoscopy: Understanding the Quick Turnaround
You may want to see also