Constipation is an all-too-common issue that can affect anyone, disrupting our daily lives and well-being. Whether it's due to lifestyle habits, pregnancy, medications, or underlying health conditions, the struggle with constipation is real. Fortunately, there's a straightforward constipation relief option: stool softeners.

Stool softeners are emollient laxatives, which help relieve constipation by allowing liquids to mix with stool, preventing dry, hard masses from forming. They provide a gentle way to get things moving again without causing strain during bowel movements.

In this guide, we will discover the uses and side effects of stool softeners.

What is a Stool Softener?
Uses of Stool Softener
Best Time to Take the Stool Softener
Side Effects of Stool Softener
Natural Alternatives for Stool Softener
Whom to Consult for Digestive Health?
Frequently Asked Questions About Stool Softener

What is a Stool Softener?

Stool softeners are laxative-type medications that can relieve constipation. They're an emollient laxative, which helps liquids mix into the stool to prevent the formation of dry, hard masses.

Constipation can occur due to various reasons:

Pregnancy
Medications
Lifestyle habits
Health conditions

Stool softeners are gentle medications for the stools with a relatively mild effect. They typically contain docusate calcium and docusate sodium as the active ingredients.

Over-the-counter (OTC) stool softeners are helpful when a person experiences mild or chronic constipation.

Healthcare professionals may prescribe stool softeners after major surgery, such as heart surgery or hernia repair. If straining during bowel movements could be harmful during recovery, taking stool softeners can help prevent complications.

Tip from Expert: While stool softeners are only intended for short-term relief of constipation, long-term use might be harmful. It is suggested to speak to experts or contact our specialists in Narayana Health for digestive health needs!

Uses of Stool Softener

Stool softeners are used as short-term relievers for constipation. These are typically effective for patients who are suggested to avoid straining during bowel movements because of the following:

Haemorrhoids
Other problems
Heart conditions

Stool softeners are gentle enough to cure constipation with regular use.

Best Time to Take the Stool Softener

Stool softeners are in the form of:

Tablets
Liquids
Capsules
Syrups

A stool softener is best taken at bedtime. Follow the directions on the package or prescription label. If you have any confusion or doubts, ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Here is the dosage chart:

Adults and children (twelve years and older) should take one to three soft gels daily or as a doctor prescribes.
Children (six to under twelve) should take one soft gel daily or as doctor prescribes.

Side Effects of Stool Softener

Stool softener side effects may include:

Nausea
Diarrhoea
Weakness
Stomach pain
Intestinal pain or cramps
Throat irritation due to oral stool softeners

Some side effects can worsen over time. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms after taking a stool softener:

Rash
Fever
Itching
Dizziness
Rectal bleeding
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Hives or swelling of the tongue, face, or throat

Quick Tip: Tell the doctor or pharmacist if these effects last long or worsen. This medication may also cause urine to turn reddish-brown.

Natural Alternatives for Stool Softeners

Considering natural alternatives can be highly effective if you're looking for soft stool remedies. Insoluble fibre is one of the best options for softening stools. Here are some fibre-rich foods that can help make the stool-passing process easier:

Nuts
Beans
Whole Wheat flour
Vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes.

Patients can also take liquids, which can help fibre work better, making the stool softer and easier to pass. Healthy fluid choices include:

Water
Healthy liquids
Naturally sweetened fruit juices
Foods with a high water content

Whom to Consult for Digestive Health?

Expert Care Available: Our specialists at Narayana Health offer comprehensive and personalised care for your digestive issues.
Schedule Your Consultation: Get advanced diagnostics and customised treatment plans.
Professional Guidance: Benefit from expert advice on managing your digestive health.
Call Us Today at 08068617735 to book your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stool Softener

Q. Do stool softeners have side effects?
A. Yes, stool softeners can have side effects, including diarrhoea, nausea, stomach ache, abdominal pain, etc.

Q. Is it safe to take stool softeners daily?
A. Yes, it is considered safe to take stool softeners daily. However, they are just a temporary solution to the problem. It is best to focus on consuming bland food items to eliminate constipation.

Q. When is the best time of day to take a stool softener?
A. For the best results, taking a stool softener on an empty stomach is ideal.

Q. How many stool softeners can you safely take a day?
A. For children over 12 and adults, it is safe to consume 1-3 softgels of stool softener daily.

Q. Is stool softener safe for kidneys?
A. Yes, almost all types of stool softeners are safe for kidneys.

Top Ranking Blogs:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23274-stool-softener
https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9514/stool-softener-oral/details