A 30-year-old member asked:
Can laxative abuse or over use of laxative cause colitis.?
2 doctor answers • 9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Joshua Katzanswered
Colon and Rectal Surgery 29 years experience
Not really: Laxative use should be directed by your doctor. Needing laxatives for more than two days should prompt a visit to your doctor.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Addagada Raoanswered
General Surgery 57 years experience
Yes: Why laxatives have to be abused, first cause of the constipation is to be determined by your physician , by exam and tests including colonoscopy for malignancy , anorectal motility studies.Some laxatives that stimulate the colon like seneca etc by constant stimulation colonic mucosa will be damaged permanently and may result colitis.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Aug 2, 2017
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.