How much stool softener can i take

Stool softeners are a type of laxative that works by drawing water into the stool, making it softer and more comfortable to pass. All laxatives work in different ways, each with the intention of helping to relieve constipation.

Understanding the differences between laxatives and stool softeners may help a person decide which one to use. Anyone dealing with regular constipation may also choose to make a few changes to their diet and lifestyle, which might help regulate their bowel movements. A laxative is any medicine or supplement that helps the body have a bowel movement. Each laxative works differently. Stool softeners are a type of laxative that works to gently lubricate the stool by adding a compound to it that absorbs water.

They are also called emollient laxatives. There are many types of laxatives because there are many different causes of constipation. Doctors may recommend different types of laxative depending on the cause of constipation or side effects of the medications.

Stool softeners are a type of laxative, but not all laxatives are stool softeners. Although some other laxatives also soften the stool, they have different methods of action.

Only take one type of laxative at a time, and talk to a doctor before switching between them to avoid any interactions or complications. People can find a wide range of constipation relief methods online, including stool softeners and other laxatives.

Stool softeners are gentle medications with a relatively mild effect. They soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Over-the-counter stool softeners are useful when a person experiences mild occasional or chronic constipation. Doctors may prescribe stool softeners after major surgeries, such as heart surgery or hernia repair.

If straining to have a bowel movement might be harmful during recovery, people can take stool softeners to avoid complications. Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines.

They may not be the best option for people experiencing constipation from dehydration. Anyone using osmotic laxatives should also drink more water throughout the day. When used correctly, doctors may recommend osmotic laxatives for long-term use. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take stool softeners regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture not in the bathroom.

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily.

To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location — one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription over-the-counter medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.

A sudden increase in the amount of fiber you eat can cause bloating and gas, so start slowly. When constipation is a problem, limit foods that can make it worse. In particular, try to avoid foods such as pastries, puddings, sugar, candy, cake and cheese. Fluid intake can have an effect on your bowel function, too. A good goal is to drink 8 ounces of fluid six to eight times a day. Water is the best choice, but other liquids also can help you get the fluid you need each day.

A lack of physical activity may contribute to constipation. If you do not exercise regularly, consider adding some type of physical activity to your daily routine.

This can help relieve constipation. Considerations for use: Stool softeners are gentle enough to prevent constipation with regular use. Find a selection of emollient laxatives here.

Active ingredients: psyllium , methylcellulose, and calcium polycarbophil. How it works: It forms a gel in your stool that helps hold more water in your stool.

The stool becomes bigger, which stimulates movement in your intestine to help pass the stool more quickly. Considerations for use: Bulk-forming laxatives can be used for longer periods and with little risk of side effects.

However, they take longer than other laxatives to work. Find a selection of bulk-forming laxatives here. Active ingredient: mineral oil. How it works: It coats your stool and intestines to prevent water loss. It also lubricates your stool to help it move more easily.

Considerations for use: Mineral oil is not for use on a regular basis. Lubricant laxatives are typically only good options for immediate relief of short-term constipation. Find a selection of lubricant laxatives here. How it works: It draws more water into your intestines. This helps soften the stool to help it move more easily. Considerations for use: Hyperosmotic laxatives can also be used for longer periods with little risk of side effects. Find a selection of hyperosmotic laxatives here. How it works: It draws more water into the intestine.

This softens the stool and stimulates movement in your intestines to help you pass it. Considerations for use: Saline laxatives should not be used on a regular basis. When used regularly, they can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Find a selection of saline laxatives here. Considerations for use: Stimulant laxatives also should not be used on a regular basis.