What Is Docusate Sodium And How Could It Be Effective With Constipation
Article Source: HealthSnare.com
Want to know what is docusate sodium used for. It is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation. Most people will have it at one time or another in life. Usually it is temporary. In some instances it can be chronic. This laxative works slowly but surely and without being what may be termed too effective as some laxatives can be.
Infrequent bowel elimination is usually what defines constipation. Under that definition is also not eliminating completely and having difficulty or having to strain to do so. When there is no bowel movement for more than three days the stool hardens and becomes painful to pass. If undue strain is necessary hemorrhoids may develop. There is also the possibility of fissures which will issue bright red blood. This will usually disappear right away. If there is an orange color to the blood see your physician right away.
A healthy bowel is considered one that is eliminated a minimum of three times a week to three times a day. Although it is not necessary to do so each day, a movement should not be less than three days a week. If there has been no movement for more than three days then there is potential constipation. If you are chronically experiencing constipation an appointment with the doctor is needed. Sometimes it is masking a deeper condition
To prevent constipation it is important to eat enough fiber each day. A balanced diet will help with this as well as eating four to six servings of vegetables and fruit each day. Eat whole foods and avoid processed foods as much as possible. Whole grains should be part of the daily diet. If your body indicates it needs to eliminate do not wait to do so. Drink plenty of water and exercise a minimum of three times a week.
If you still need help docusate sodium can help. It is a stimulant laxative meaning it helps with bowel movement by stimulating the muscles involved in the elimination process. Doctors recommend it often to clean out the intestines prior to a medical procedure. Patients that can not strain when passing usually due to a medical condition will have it prescribed as well. Sometimes doctors will suggest it when a prescribed medication caused constipation.
It works in two ways. First it absorbs water from the body into the intestines. This will soften the stool and make it easier to pass without pain and strain. Secondly it will stimulate the muscles necessary to push the stool from the body. This is where it is very important to stick to the recommended dosage.
There are some possible side effects such as diarrhea, cramping and stomach pain. If you do get diarrhea as result of it use discontinue immediately.
It comes in liquid and capsule form. This is not fast acting and will take up to three days to start to work. The average is two days. Take it for no longer than a week as the body can form a dependency. Unless prescribed by a doctor children should not take it. A full glass of water should be taken with it.
What is docusate sodium used for? Basically it is a laxative that is quite effective for constipation. The diet should be addressed to help prevent it. If the constipation is more than temporary a doctor must be consulted to find the underlying cause.
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Date: Thu, 6 May 2010 Time: 3:02 AM
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