What are the dangers of taking laxatives for a long time

In modern life, people's pace of life has become very fast and their diet has become very disordered. Therefore, constipation has quietly come to people. When it comes to the treatment of constipation, laxatives are the most commonly used. However, all medicines are toxic, not to mention laxatives, which are harmful to the body. Long-term use will have many effects on the body. So, what are the dangers of taking laxatives for a long time?

First, what are the dangers of taking laxatives for a long time? Because many laxatives may damage the nerve plexus cells of the intestinal wall, causing further constipation. Long-term use can cause melanosis of the intestinal wall and even induce intestinal tumors. Repeated stimulation of the intestines by laxatives can cause gastrointestinal dysfunction. If laxatives are used too frequently, it will cause drug dependence, and the smooth muscles of the large intestine will atrophy and be unable to move on their own. Long-term use of laxatives may cause the loss of water and electrolytes from the intestines, leading to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, softening of bones, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The use of laxatives can also affect the intestinal absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition, which in turn causes symptoms such as weight loss, multiple illnesses, and anemia.

Second, long-term use of laxatives only temporarily relieves symptoms instead of adjusting and restoring the normal bowel movement function of the intestines. Over time, a habit and dependence on laxatives is formed, with the result that one gets diarrhea when taking the medicine and gets constipated when not taking it. Due to the frequent use of laxatives, the stimulating effect of laxatives on the intestines gradually weakens, and many patients can only achieve results by continuously increasing the dosage of laxatives. Commonly used laxatives such as rhubarb, Polygonum multiflorum, senna leaves, Cassia seed, etc. all contain enquinone ingredients. Long-term use can cause cumulative poisoning and jaundice.

What are the dangers of taking laxatives for a long time? Properly match your diet and eat more coarse grains, fruits and vegetables. Leeks, celery, cabbage, carrots, and fungus are rich in dietary fiber, which can promote intestinal motility. You can also drink some yogurt. Drink 1500~2000 ml every day. A bottle of mineral water is about 500 ml. People with constipation should drink 3 to 4 bottles a day, half a bottle at a time. Drinking a large amount of water at one time is better than drinking small amounts each time or drinking multiple times. However, people with heart problems should not drink water that is too cold or too strong. It is recommended to consult a doctor. It should be noted that we are talking about drinking water here, and it cannot be replaced by coffee, strong tea or drinks with high sugar content. Do some exercise and relax. People with constipation are recommended to do ani exercises frequently to contract and relax the anus and exercise the anal muscles. Regulate your emotions and maintain a positive attitude. Defecation is controlled by the central nervous system. Once anxiety and depression occur, the central nervous system is disturbed and the defecation function may be disturbed. Conversely, the discomfort caused by constipation can lead to mental tension and anxiety, aggravating constipation.