Busting myths about constipation

MANILA, Philippines - Filipinos tend to be uncomfortable talking about constipation and asking a medical professional for a remedy. But they should break the silence about the dreaded condition and not rely on home remedies and misconceptions that could aggravate constipation.

Medically defined as a condition when one experiences having fewer than three bowel movements in a week, constipation can lead to complications that range from a simple headache and slight discomfort to more serious concerns like lower back pain, skin problems, fecal , and hemorrhoids.

Estimates on the number of Filipinos who suffer from constipation vary widely and this is due to inconsistent responses by respondents. In a study released by world laxative manufacturer Dulcolax, the rate of awareness on constipation is low at only 30 percent. Out of this, only 33 percent admitted that they are constipated.

Awareness is key to preventing constipation but because people do not easily warm up to the topic, constipation is surrounded by myths and misconceptions. For instance, did you know that drinking coffee can actually make the condition worse? Or that drastically reducing your daily stress can affect your daily movement? It pays to know the facts and bust the myths surrounding constipation. Here are some of them:

Myth #1: Using stimulant laxatives for a long time can lessen effect on treating constipation. 

Scientific research shows no evidence that stimulant laxatives induce habituation or tolerance. In a retrospective study of patients who moderately increased the dose of laxatives over years of use but did not exceed the maximum recommended dose, no tolerance was reported during their hospital stay.

Meanwhile, further studies are needed to determine if behavioral treatment can cause tolerance or reduction of response to laxatives.

Myth #2: Laxatives are addictive.

Studies show that stimulant laxatives are not likely to cause addiction. Some have attributed the need to increase the dose of laxatives to addiction but this could theoretically be induced by damage to the colon or by an adaptive mechanism counteracting the laxative effect on motility or secretion.

Myth #3: Constipation means you need more fiber.

While having a low-fiber diet may cause constipation, it does not follow that more fiber would relieve it. There are cases when chronic constipation is a symptom of a poorly functioning thyroid gland, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or stroke, or a side effect of medications.

Myth #4: Laxatives can be bad for your colon.

There is no evidence to support the theory of a “vicious circle,” or further constipation as side effect of stimulant laxatives. Because stimulant laxatives fluid secretion in a dose-dependent manner, some falsely conclude it leads to electrolyte disturbances. But laxatives actually increase the re-absorption of sodium in the intestinal mucosa in exchange for potassium, which is then excreted from the body. A low level of potassium in the body called hypokalemia is known to cause constipation.

Myth #5: Vacations will not cause constipation.

Studies show that traveling actually puts you more at risk of constipation because it can change your diet and daily routine. Avoid constipation by moving around when you can, exercising and eating fruits and vegetables. On the contrary, reducing stress (which usually happens during vacations) can affect your regularity. Try beating the blues by having a massage and meditating.

A clinically proven effective treatment is (Bisacodyl) Dulcolax, which has a two-way action that supports the body’s natural process of elimination.

(Bisacodyl) Dulcolax is best taken at bedtime to experience predictable constipation relief the following morning. What’s more, the tablet has a protective comfort coating, making it possible to reach the colon where it is needed. 

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.