Laxatives For Children
Should You Use Laxatives For Children With Constipation?
Should you use laxatives for children with constipation? The question does not have a simple answer. For those who are experiencing mild problems with bowel movements, the answer is no. Yet, if the child has chronic constipation, he or she will probably benefit from using a laxative to help cure constipation. It may be the only way initially to help the child.
A laxative has the intent of clearing the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It can do so in 1 of several ways. Bulk-forming laxatives make the stools bulkier but softer. Bran is an example of this type. Stool softeners such as docusate sodium do soften the stool for easier passage. Osmotic laxatives help the intestine retain water, allowing stools to flow through the GI. Lactulose is a type of Osmotic laxative. Stimulant laxatives such as senna, castor oil or docusate help movement through the GI by acting upon the walls and squeezing them. It does so by irritating it into performing. This is one reason why some health professionals recommend osmotic laxatives over stimulant laxatives.
Before you decide to use laxatives for your child’s composition, be sure they are formulated for children and not adults. Also, be concerned about its effect if you need to have him or her take it for more than a week. You do not want to have a treatment for constipation result in such problems as lazy bowel syndrome. There are also other possible side effects from usage. Talk to your child’s doctor before you use over-the-counter drugs or herbal laxatives.
It is usually better to address the GI problem with diet and exercise. Yet, there are cases when laxatives for children are necessary.
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