Constipation is a common problem, and most people experience it at some point in their lives. It can be uncomfortable and even painful. While occasional constipation is natural, it's important to understand the differences between stool softeners and laxatives to choose the best option for relief. Laxatives are substances that help with bowel movements, and stool softeners are a type of mild laxative that softens stools, making them easier to pass. Stool softeners are recommended for temporary or mild constipation, while stronger laxatives are more suitable for severe or chronic cases. Before choosing either option, it's crucial to identify your symptoms and consult a healthcare professional for advice.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Definition | Laxatives are substances that help you have a bowel movement. |
Stool softeners are a type of laxative that softens your stool, making it easier to pass. | |
Types | Laxatives: Bulk-forming, Osmotic, Stimulant, Saline, Lubricant, Guanylate cyclase-C agonist. |
Stool softeners: Oral softgel capsules, tablets, liquid, syrup. | |
Use | Laxatives are used for severe or chronic constipation. |
Stool softeners are used for temporary, mild or occasional constipation. | |
Speed | Laxatives are generally faster-acting than stool softeners. |
Side effects | Laxatives can cause dehydration, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, gas, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. |
Stool softeners can cause stomach cramps, stomach pain, diarrhoea, weakness, hives, or vomiting. |
What You'll Learn
Stool softeners are a type of laxative
Stool softeners are particularly useful for individuals who have had recent surgery, hemorrhoids, or other sensitivities where straining during a bowel movement should be avoided. They are also effective when stools are dry and hard, helping to lubricate them and making them easier to pass. Stool softeners are generally safe for most people and can be found under brand names such as Colace, Correctol, and DulcoEase, among others.
While stool softeners are a type of laxative, not all laxatives are stool softeners. Laxatives are a broad category of medications that facilitate bowel movements and include various types such as bulk-forming laxatives, osmotic laxatives, stimulant laxatives, and saline laxatives. Each type of laxative has a different method of action and works in different ways to relieve constipation. For example, bulk-forming laxatives add fibre to the stool, making it bulkier and stimulating intestinal movement, while osmotic laxatives draw water into the intestines to soften the stool.
It is important to note that the choice between a stool softener and a laxative depends on individual needs and the severity of constipation. Stool softeners are generally recommended for milder forms of constipation, while laxatives may be more suitable for severe or chronic constipation. Consulting a healthcare professional is always advised before taking any medication, including stool softeners or laxatives, to ensure the most appropriate treatment option is selected.
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Laxatives are recommended for faster relief
Laxatives are substances that help you have a bowel movement. They can be bought over the counter at pharmacies or grocery stores and come in different forms, such as oral capsules, tablets, gummies, and liquids. There are many types of laxatives, including:
- Bulk-forming laxatives: These work by adding moisture and weight to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. Examples include psyllium husk and methylcellulose, found in common brands like Citrucel and Metamucil.
- Osmotic laxatives: These draw water into the intestines, softening the stool and increasing bowel movements. Examples include Milk of Magnesia and Miralax.
- Stimulant laxatives: These work by irritating the intestines, increasing contractions in the colon, and forcing stool to move along. Common brands include Senokot and Dulcolax.
- Saline laxatives: These magnesium-based laxatives pull water into the intestines.
- Lubricant laxatives: These oily laxatives coat the intestines to help move stool through quicker.
- Guanylate cyclase-C agonist laxatives: These drugs increase water in the gastrointestinal tract and make the stool move through the colon faster.
When deciding between a stool softener and a laxative, it is important to consider your specific situation and needs. Laxatives are generally recommended if you have severe constipation and need faster relief. Stool softeners, on the other hand, are better for preventing constipation, especially if you have certain medical conditions or take certain medications.
It is always recommended to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including laxatives or stool softeners.
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Stool softeners are good for short-term use
Stool softeners are a good option for short-term use, especially if you have hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. They are also a good choice if you want to prevent constipation, particularly if you are at risk due to certain medical conditions or medications. For example, if you have recently had surgery or have hemorrhoids, stool softeners can help you pass stools without straining, reducing the risk of complications.
Stool softeners work by increasing the water content in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They are considered gentle medications with mild effects and are generally well-tolerated. Common over-the-counter brands include Colace, Correctol, DulcoEase, and Phillips' Stool Softener.
Compared to stronger laxatives, stool softeners are better tolerated and have fewer side effects. Stimulant laxatives, for instance, can cause dehydration, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping. Stool softeners are recommended for temporary or mild constipation, while stronger laxatives are more appropriate for more severe or chronic cases.
It is important to note that stool softeners should not be taken long-term unless approved by a physician. If your constipation persists or becomes chronic, consult your doctor for advice and to discuss other treatment options.
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Laxatives can be used for longer periods
Laxatives are generally not recommended for long-term use. However, bulk-forming and hyperosmotic laxatives can be used for longer periods with little risk of side effects. These types of laxatives are suitable for people with chronic constipation.
Bulk-forming laxatives are considered the gentlest type and are the least likely to cause side effects. They work by adding soluble fibre to the stool, which draws water from the body into the stool, making it bigger and softer. This stimulates the colon to contract and push out the stool. Bulk-forming laxatives can take a few days to work, so they are not suitable for those seeking immediate relief. Common bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (Metamucil®), polycarbophil (FiberCon®), and methylcellulose (Citrucel®).
Hyperosmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines, softening the stool, and increasing bowel movements. They can take a few days to work and are also not suitable for those seeking immediate relief. Hyperosmotic laxatives include polyethylene glycol (Gavilax®, MiraLAX®) and glycerin (Colace Glycerin®, Fleet Pedia-Lax®).
It is important to note that laxatives should not be used for longer than one week without consulting a doctor. Additionally, stimulant laxatives, such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax®) and senna (Fletcher's® Laxative), can lead to dependence if used for long periods or in high doses.
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Consult a doctor before switching between them
Stool softeners and laxatives are both medications that can help with constipation and make it easier to pass stool. However, they work differently. It is important to consult a doctor before switching between them.
A stool softener is a type of laxative called an emollient laxative. It is used when one has mild constipation and temporary symptoms. Stool softeners are available in the form of oral softgel capsules. They work by increasing the water content in the stool so that it can absorb more water and fat, making it softer and easier to pass. They are recommended for temporary, less chronic constipation.
On the other hand, stronger laxatives such as stimulant laxatives are more appropriate for more severe or chronic symptoms. Unlike stool softeners, they directly stimulate nerves in the large intestine to treat acute and chronic constipation. They work faster but can cause side effects such as dehydration, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping.
Before switching between stool softeners and laxatives, it is important to consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment. A doctor can assess the severity and specific situation of the patient's constipation and recommend the most suitable option. For example, if someone has severe or chronic constipation, laxatives may be more suitable, while stool softeners may be recommended for those with temporary or mild constipation.
Additionally, a doctor can advise on the potential side effects and interactions of different medications. For instance, stimulant laxatives can lead to dependence if used for a long time, while osmotic laxatives may not be suitable for people with constipation caused by dehydration. Consulting a doctor can help to avoid any adverse reactions or complications.
In summary, while stool softeners and laxatives can both be effective in treating constipation, they have different uses and mechanisms of action. Consulting a doctor before switching between them can ensure that the patient receives the most appropriate treatment for their specific needs and symptoms.
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Frequently asked questions
Laxatives are substances that help you have a bowel movement. They come in different forms such as oral capsules, tablets, gummies, and liquids. There are many types of laxatives, including bulk-forming, osmotic, stimulant, and saline laxatives.
A stool softener is a type of laxative called an emollient laxative. It helps to soften the stool by adding moisture, making it easier to pass. Stool softeners are generally recommended for temporary, mild, or chronic constipation. Unlike stimulant laxatives, they work gently and are better tolerated with fewer side effects.
Laxatives are generally recommended if you have severe constipation and need faster relief. They are also suitable if you have symptoms of constipation, such as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or hard, lumpy stools.
Laxatives may cause side effects such as dehydration, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping, diarrhoea, and electrolyte imbalances. They should be used sparingly and are not recommended for long-term use. People with certain medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease or pregnancy, should consult their healthcare provider before taking laxatives.