Safe To Use Stool Softeners Daily?

Posted on Mon, 21 Oct 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 21 Oct 2013 Answered on

Mon, 11 Nov 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Is it safe to use o stool softeners on a Dailey basis. I am 91 years old and have a constipation problem. I try to eat 35 grams of fiber a day.

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You should avoid long term use.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for writing to XXXXXXX

There may be many reasons for constipation in your age group.
You need proper examination by surgeon.
Investigations like routine hemogram,ultrasonography,colonoscopy,barium enema can be done to rule out any pathology.
Mostly it is functional.
It may be due to less fibre and fluid intake,less physical activity,chronic medication or age relate degeneration.
You should take plenty of fluids and continue taking fibrous diet.
You should also increase your physical activity in the form of walking etc.
Avoid taking laxative for long term use.You should concentrate more on other methods already discussed.Magnesium 250 mg once daily can be taken.

Get well soon.
Hope i have answered your query.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar