This common phenomenon is known as travel constipation or vacation constipation.
What you end up choosing should depend on how severe your constipation is.
If thats the case, then the stool softener will work better.
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Its not really a laxative; it just softens.
But if a person feels particularly uncomfortable, a laxative is appropriate.
In general, he recommends starting with the mildest remedya stool softenerbefore trying a laxative.
They may cause a flare-up of the underlying condition or interact with medication.
By the time it gets through your body, its drawn fluid.
As it goes through your system, it helps you to go, Firoozi said.
If it happens, a fast-acting mild laxative, like MiraLax or Dulcolax, may be your best bet.
Ultimately, deciding when to take OTC constipation medication is a personal choice, Firoozi said.
Theres definitely nothing wrong with taking it prophylactically, but that would be an individual decision, Firoozi said.
Depending on how severe your constipation is, consider taking a stool softener or laxative for relief.
As a rule of thumb, try a stool softener first.
