Overview of Treatment for Constipation
Treatment for constipation can be diverse in scope, ranging from lifestyle changes to medication, depending on the case presentation. Over-the-counter remedies are very common and can treat mild to moderately presenting cases because they stimulate bowel actions and the hardening of stool to ensure easy passage of stools.
The most common OTC constipation treatments include the following:
- Fiber Supplements: Adds bulk to the stool so that the stool is easy to pass.
- Stool Softeners: These aid in making the stool softer and easier to pass by moistening it.
- Laxatives: There are several types, which include stimulant, osmotic, and lubricant laxatives, each working a little differently to relieve constipation.
- Probiotics: These improve gut health by restoring the balance of healthy bacteria, which in itself can cure constipation.
Each treatment has its mechanism, and therefore, its effectiveness varies across patients. The next section describes each of the aforementioned treatments in detail.
Also Read: Top 8 Constipation Home Remedies to Keep Your Digestive System Healthy
Fiber Supplements in the Treatment of Constipation
An essential component in managing and preventing constipation is fiber. No doubt, one of the over-the-counter treatments most commonly recommended for constipation is supplementation with fiber which works by adding bulk to the stool to make it easier to be passed through the digestive tract.
Types of Fiber Supplements:
- Psyllium (Metamucil): It is a fiber that works naturally by absorbing water, making stools softer, and then encouraging bowel movements.
- Methylcellulose (Citrucel): This is a non-fermentable fiber supplement, which doesn't help in the formation of gas but adds bulk to the stool, thus helping for its proper passage through the digestive system.
- Calcium polycarbophil (FiberCon): This supplement absorbs water and includes bulk for the stool to let it move easily.
Effectiveness: Dietary fiber supplements are very effective for people who experience mild constipation or irregular bowel movements. It may take a few days to soften, but drinking plenty of water is important and will also prevent constipation from getting worse. Fiber may be of use in managing chronic constipation by improving long-term bowel health.
Stool Softeners: Cure for Soft Constipation
The most commonly used and available over-the-counter constipation treatment is a stool softener. A stool softener works by absorbing water from the gut into the stool, resulting in softness for easier passage. The best-known stool softener is docusate sodium (Colace); it is often prescribed for clients who need gentle relief without the pain of straining.
Use stool softeners :
- When straining to be avoided post-surgery or post-childbirth.
- For those patients who have hemorrhoids or fissures of the anal area, which may become sore or irritated with the passage of hard stools.
Effectiveness: Stool softeners will generally be effective for most mildly constipated patients or those needing a temporarily softened stool. They are also considered safe for short-term use. Less likely to be effective for those patients with chronic constipation or severe infrequent constipation. Laxatives would probably be a better choice for these patients.
Laxatives: Quick Over-the-counter Relief for Constipation Cure
When constipation strikes, people often seek laxatives for rapid relief. Several over-the-counter types of laxatives exist, each working in a different way:
- Stimulant Laxatives: These laxatives, such as bisacodyl (Dulcolax) or senna (Senokot), stimulate the bowel muscles to encourage bowel movements. They tend to work quickly within 6-12 hours.
- Osmotic Laxatives: Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX) is osmotically active and draws water into the intestines to soften the stool. Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) or Milk powder also acts on an osmotic basis, softening the stool.
- Lubricant Laxatives: Mineral oil is covalently inert and coats stool and the wall of the intestines. When it lubricates the stool, it will pass easily.
Effectiveness: Laxatives are effective in the management of constipation but taken for a short period of time. Certain stimulant laxatives cause dependency due to excessive use. However, there is less risk of dependency from osmotic laxatives. It can be used more frequently without harming the body. Care is necessary, strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage because danger includes dehydration and electrolyte disturbances.
Probiotics: Factors Supporting the Digestive System and Curing Constipation
Probiotics are live good bacteria and yeasts that confer health benefits by improving the gut. Specific strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have been said to ease constipation by reminiscing healthy bacteria in the gut, which could eventually lead to regular bowel movements and proper digestive function.
Probiotic Sources:
- Yogurt: It contains live cultures, thus beneficial for digestive health.
- Probiotics Supplements: These provide concentrated volumes of helpful bacteria. Probiotics would come in supplement forms that contain essential bacteria. These supplements support gut health and help relieve constipation.
Effectiveness: Probiotics may take weeks for them to be effective; thus, they would be a good option for those who seek long-term relief from chronic constipation. They can be very helpful for people whose constipation is caused by an imbalance in gut bacteria. The probiotics are not to be used as a quick fix for the immediate need to relieve constipation.
What Causes Constipation?
Knowing what causes constipation will guide the selection of the best treatment. Some of the common contributing factors are:
- Dietary Factors: Low fiber dietary intake and poor water intake are common factors causing constipation. Ingestion of excessive processed foods with lesser consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains often results in hard, dry stools.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles mean that there would be slowed movement in the bowel, which may bring about constipation.
- Medications: Some drugs and medications lead to constipation. These are opioid drugs, antacids containing calcium or aluminium, and some antidepressants.
- Health Conditions: Some medical conditions can cause or contribute to chronic constipation. Examples include irritable bowel syndrome, hypothyroidism, and diabetes.
Without a doubt, it is extremely crucial to recognize the reason behind constipation so that the appropriate treatment for constipation can be found and any potential occurrence can be prevented.
Finding the Best Constipation Cure
Over-the-counter remedies work really well for constipation, but the right one must be used according to the severity of the condition and cause. Combination with changing lifestyle usually works out long term.
Prevention, for instance, can be achieved through an increased intake of fiber, keeping hydrated and getting regular exercise. Usage of fiber supplements or probiotics can also help maintain digestive health, while laxatives will be prescribed in case there is a need for such treatments.
If other treatments fail to solve constipation or have become chronic, then one should consult his or her healthcare provider for further evaluations and treatment options.
Conclusion: Easy and Practical Relief from Constipation
Constipation isn't a difficult condition. For most people, constipation is manageable because of the availability of over-the-counter products. The difference lies in knowing what causes constipation, and the simple act of choosing the right product for relief can make all the difference for improving one's digestive health. Whether in bulk-forming agents, stool softeners, or stimulant laxatives, each different method brings out its kind of benefits as per individual needs and personal preferences. On the other hand, if constipation lasts for days or worsens, it is advisable to call a doctor.
Sova Health has personalized and holistic guidance on what you can do about your health. Sova Health will craft a plan designed to take into account your unique health needs. Contact Sova.Health to learn what your body is all about and get control of your health decisions.
