Over The Counter Medicine For Frequent Bowel Movements
Frequent bowel movements can be a sign of a digestive disorder or a reaction to certain foods, medication or stress. It can be annoying and interfere with daily activities. However, there are over the counter medicines that can help manage frequent bowel movements. In this article, we'll explore some of the best over the counter medications for frequent bowel movements.
What Causes Frequent Bowel Movements?
Frequent bowel movements can be caused by several factors including:
- Stress
- Food intolerances
- Medications
- Digestive disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Hyperthyroidism
If you're experiencing frequent bowel movements, it's important to see your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.
Over The Counter Medications For Frequent Bowel Movements
There are several over the counter medications that can help manage frequent bowel movements. They include:
- Loperamide (Imodium) - This medication slows down the movement of the intestines, reducing the frequency of bowel movements. It's important to follow the instructions on the package carefully, and not to exceed the recommended dose.
- Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol) - This medication reduces inflammation in the intestines and helps to firm up loose stools. It's important to avoid taking this medication if you're allergic to aspirin.
- Psyllium (Metamucil) - This medication is a bulk-forming laxative that absorbs water in the intestines to form a gel-like substance. This can help to reduce the frequency of bowel movements and make stools more formed.
- Saccharomyces Boulardii (Florastor) - This is a probiotic supplement that can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the intestines. This can help to reduce the frequency of bowel movements caused by digestive disorders such as IBS.
Tips To Manage Frequent Bowel Movements
Along with over the counter medications, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to manage frequent bowel movements. They include:
- Avoiding foods that trigger diarrhea such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and fatty foods
- Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber-rich foods
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation
Conclusion
Frequent bowel movements can be a sign of an underlying digestive disorder or a reaction to certain foods or medication. However, over the counter medications such as loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate, psyllium, and saccharomyces boulardii can help to manage the symptoms. Along with medication, making lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and reducing stress can also help to manage frequent bowel movements. If you're experiencing frequent bowel movements, it's important to see your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.