Managing Crohn's Disease-Related Constipation: A Guide to Laxatives

Constipation is one of the results of Crohn's disease when the swollen intestines restrict the normal digestive flow. If a change in diet and increased fluid intake don't relieve the discomfort, laxatives may be used to treat the constipation. Most laxatives are sold as over-the-counter medication, so no prescription is needed.

Instructions

Determine the Kind of Laxative to Treat Crohn's Disease

• 1

  Review the way oral hyperosmotics work as laxatives. Hyperosmotics such as Epsom salts and Phillips' Milk of Magnesia work by drawing water into the colon from body tissue around the colon.

• 2

  Consider oral bulk formers such as Citrucel and Metamucil laxatives that cause the stool to become bulky and soft by absorbing water. Normal intestinal muscle contraction is initiated by the bulky stool.

• 3

  Use stool softeners such as Colace and Surfak to add moisture to the stool. The softer stool makes it easier to pass without straining with bowel movements.

• 4

  Stimulate the contractions of the intestinal muscles with laxatives such as Ex-lax and Senokot.

• 5

  Choose rectal stimulants such as Fleet Bisacodyl and Dulcolax to initiate contractions of the intestinal muscles instead of taking an oral laxative.

• 6

  Ask your doctor about taking mineral oil as a lubricant laxative to treat constipation associated with Crohn's disease. Mineral oil works by lubricating the feces and intestinal lining while limiting the amount of water contained in a bowel movement.