Can stool softeners be taken daily?

Are you tired of having to strain and grunt every time you need to evacuate your bowels? Or maybe you have had an operation that has left your behind feeling like it has been hit with a baseball bat (ouch). Fear not, for science has the perfect solution in the form of stool softeners.

Stool Softeners are medications made specifically for those who experience constipation, or find bowel movements painful(believe us, we feel your pain!). They work by adding moisture to your poop which makes it smoother and easier to pass. But can stool softeners be taken daily without any health issues? Let’s dive right in!

What are Stool Softeners?

If you haven’t heard of Stool Softener before, then sit down (if possible) because this could be life-changing! It is a type of medication that often comes over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription-based. The most common active ingredient used in these drugs is docusate sodium – sound familiar? No worries if it doesn’t as doctors use professional medical jargon all day long.

Docusate Sodium works by attracting water from other parts of their body towards the fecalith (the medical term for hard poop), thereby making it softer and more comfortable on passage through the sigmoid colon–making trips to the bathroom less stressful!

How do they work?

Stool Softeners help increase hydration within stools by drawing in water externally into them. When eaten orally(and swallowed!),they get metabolized slowly so that sufficient amounts reach their target site -And no worrries about “poop lube”- there’s typically no noticeable lubrication added with a stool softener:)

Can I Take Them Every Day?

The answer is a resounding yes unless otherwise instructed by a doctor, drug label warning or condition-related contraindication/discontinuation. Stool softeners work in a gentle and subtle manner, making it safe to take often. However, if you haven’t used them before or are unsure about long-term use potential – consult your healthcare provider.

As per the American College of Gastroenterology guidelines, drug interventions for chronic constipation management can help reduce straining during bowel movements provided patients do not experience any side effects from continued usage beyond seven days consecutively (which is relatively rare).Sounds like we won the lottery!

Any Exceptions To Watch Out For?

Of course! We wouldn’t be doing our job as wise guys-er health assistant without including some scientific testaments here(NOTE: Not an official term). First off, stool softeners should never replace fiber-rich nutritious meals and fluids essential for a healthy gut lifestyle (The force is strong with this one!).
Other exceptions may include:

  • Severe Abdominal Pain
  • Digestive problems that lead to conditions such as vomiting or diarrhea
  • Pregnancy-associated and/or postpartum constipation

Also Know that Some formulations When Misused By Taking In Higher Doses Than Recommended Or Lengthier Periods Can Lead To Adverse Effects Such As Diarrhea And Cramping(cautionary tale worth noting!). So always use medication mindfully and above all –READ AND RESPECT THE LABEL.

Conclusion

In summary(constipated souls know this word very well!), most patients can safely take stool softeners regularly under doctor’s supervision dependent on how acute their needs for relief are& overall general health status(body weight,mobility etc.). If they bring short-term satisfaction /poopularity(lol)they do pose higher risks when misused,and require caution(believe us–you don’t want those cramps!).

We hope you learned something new in reading today’s article! Remember fellow couch potatoes- taking out 2 hours daily for exercise,to laughter and healthy diets can definitely help you stay off “stool”-softeners!

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