Constipation
and Use of Laxatives
What
is constipation?
Constipation is generally defined as the decrease in the frequency
of bowel movements with hard, dry stools. There are several causes
of constipation and every effort should be taken to understand the
cause of the constipation before you attempt to treat the problem.
How
do laxatives relieve constipation?
Laxative products facilitate the passage and elimination of faeces
from the colon and rectum and thereby produce a bowel movement.
Are
there any natural methods of regulating the bowel?
Yes. Some methods include:
- Ensuring
the intake of adequate dietary fiber found in wholegrain cereals
and bread, fruit and vegetables.
- Increasing
the daily fluid intake, up to eight glasses of water or juice
per day.
- Responding
to the urge since ignoring the urge can offset bowel regularity.
- Relaxing
to reduce stress and allowing sufficient time for elimination
to occur.
- Exercising.
Physical activity improves muscle tone but exercising the abdominal
muscles, in particular, improves the muscle tone of the intestinal
area.
Are
laxatives dangerous?
Overuse of laxatives has been known to cause damage to the nerves,
muscles and tissues of the intestines and bowel. Diarrhoea and vomiting
can also occur causing severe losses in fluids and electrolytes from
the body, resulting in dehydration. Improper use of laxatives can
lead to dependence on the laxative to produce bowel movements. They
should only be used to provide short-term relief of constipation and
should not be used to "clean out" the system or as a tonic. |
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