Enulose & Constipation

Constipation is a condition in which your body does not allow you to defecate or defecate easily. This can be an extremely uncomfortable condition and can cause problems in the colon. This condition is when you fail to defecate an excess of three times a week. This is the most common gastrointestinal complaint reported to medical professionals.

Symptoms of Constipation

• When you are constipated, the waste stools are often very hard, small and can be very difficult to eliminate. Other signs of constipation include straining to eliminate, sensations of incomplete elimination, and sensations of blockages. This is most often caused by poor diet, although other factors and illnesses can cause constipation. This most often occurs in pregnant women, post-natal women and women over 65, although it can strike individuals of any age and gender.

Enulose

• Enulose, also known as Lactulose, is used to help treat constipation in some patients. This medication works by directing fluid to the colon, building the bulk and the moisture level of the stools, helping the colon to successfully eliminate the stool. This medication is used in the treatment of chronic constipation of either gender patients, although care should be exercised for pregnant women.

Method of Medication

• Enulose is a simple sugar that is broken down by the large intestine. This then becomes a milk acid and causes water to be drawn into the colon. This makes it easier for the colon to eliminate the solid waste. The theory is that the acid made by the Lactulose causes the colon to take in more water and therefore soften the stool, replacing some of the fluids that the colon had originally removed from the stool. This makes it easier for the stool to be passed without straining or pain.

Doctor Discussions

• Be sure to discuss with your doctor if you are diabetic or if you are planning on an intestinal test with the use of a scope. In these cases, the dosage of Enulose may be altered to fit your specific medical needs. If you are planning on or are pregnant, discuss this with your doctor before starting an Enulose regime. While there is no evidence of prenatal harm to the fetus by Enulose, some doctors may not be comfortable prescribing the medication. There is no information as to how Enulose behaves in breast milk, therefore nursing women should not use Enulose. Do not take this medication if you have a low galactose diet.

Side Effects

• Discontinue the usage of the medication and contact a medical professional if you experience any allergic reaction to the medication. These allergic reactions include swelling of the tongue, face or lips, or difficulty breathing. If severe or continual diarrhea occurs, stop taking the medication and call a medical professional. Other side effects may include bloating, nausea and stomach pain.