Is it OK to take stool softener every day?

Over-the-counter stool softeners are effective for some people. However, in controlled clinical trials, there is no evidence that they improve symptoms. While they only are intended for short-term relief of constipation, using a daily stool softener long-term probably is not harmful.

What are the side effects of taking a stool softener everyday?

Stomach pain, diarrhea, or cramping may occur. Irritated throat (with liquid or syrup forms) may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

How often can you take stool softeners?

Do not take stool softeners for more than 1 week unless your doctor directs you to.

Can you become dependent on stool softeners?

Many safe, effective over-the-counter laxatives are available to treat occasional constipation in a variety of ways. However, it's very important to read the label directions carefully and to use them as directed. Overuse of laxatives may cause you to become dependent on them for a bowel movement.

How can I soften my stools everyday?

Is it okay to take stool softeners each day for a few months?

How do I stop my poop from being hard?

Can you take Colace every day?

Colace is approved to treat constipation in children ages 2 years and older. The standard pediatric dosage of Colace is 50-150 mg by mouth once or twice daily. Pediatric dosing is based on age rather than weight. Children 12 years and older may take 50-300 mg per day, either once daily or twice daily.

Why is my poop hard as a rock?

Hard stools are a result of your colon absorbing too much water. That can happen when food passes too slowly through your digestive system. This results in hard, dry stools that are difficult for you to pass.

Is it OK to take MiraLAX every day?

You should use MiraLAX^® for no more than seven days. If you need to use a laxative for longer than one week, stop use and consult your doctor.

What happens if you take too much stool softeners?

What happens if I overdose on Stool Softener + Stimulant Laxative (Oral)? Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea.

How long can I take stool softeners?

Like bulk-forming laxatives, they're a good option for people with chronic constipation and they take longer than other laxatives to work. You shouldn't use them continuously for longer than one week without talking to your doctor.

What is a good stool softener for elderly?

Osmotic laxatives such as polyethylene glycol (brand name Miralax) are well-tolerated by most older adults, and can be used daily.

Is it OK to take Dulcolax everyday?

Long-term use of DULCOLAX is not recommended. If you use DULCOLAX every day, you should consult with your doctor to find out the cause of your constipation. Long-term and excessive use of DULCOLAX may cause an imbalance of salts in the body (including low potassium), muscle weakness and kidney problems.

What is the difference between a stool softener and a laxative?

A laxative defines any medicine that facilitates a bowel movement which includes a broad range designed to treat varying levels of severity. A stool softener is a mild (OTC) over-the-counter laxative used to soften the stool for easier passage and less strain.

Are bananas good for constipation?

Bananas are high in fiber

Fiber has long been claimed to help prevent and relieve constipation ( 2 , 3 ). Soluble fiber absorbs water, helping stools stay large and soft. This may help improve the movement of stool through your digestive tract ( 4 ).

Do bananas cause constipation?

Interestingly, bananas can either be a cause of constipation or a source of constipation relief, depending on their ripeness. "Unripened, green bananas are constipating," says Tammy Lakatos.

Are bananas constipating?

Bananas are a constipation treatment food when they are very ripe, yellow and when you eat them in moderation. But, if you eat them when they are unripe and green, they can actually cause constipation.

Can you take Colace long term?

Colace is generally safe to be taken long term with the guidance of a healthcare provider and may be prescribed to prevent constipation associated with other medications or conditions known to cause constipation.

Which is better MiraLAX or Colace?

Miralax (Polyethylene Glycol) provides effective relief of constipation without "cramping" your style. Softens your stools. Colace (docusate) softens the stool, but may not stimulate a bowel movement as quickly as a laxative. Miralax is the most recommended laxative by pharmacists and doctors.

What foods cause hard stools?

Fried foods are full of fat and are hard to digest. When food moves through your colon slowly, too much water can be taken out of it. That makes for a hard, dry stool.

What foods soften your stool?

How do you soften an impacted stool quickly?

Do stool softeners dehydrate the bowel?

Osmotic laxatives encourage bowel movements by drawing water into the bowel from the nearby tissue (intestinal lumen) thereby softening the stool. Some of these laxatives can cause electrolyte imbalances as they draw out nutrients and other contents with the water, which increases thirst and dehydration.

What softens a hard stool?

Soluble fiber dissolves in water, softening the stool. 6 You can increase your soluble fiber by eating most fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Flaxseed, chia seeds, and psyllium are other good sources of soluble fiber.