Is a stool softener like a laxitive?

Question

And what are the best stool softeners and laxitives out there?

Answer 1

No, a stool softener just softens so you can go~ a good stool softener is Kelp

Prunes are the best laxative

Answer 2

Stool softener is basically a laxitive but on a smaller level of 'laxitiveness' :-)

Stool softener just makes it softer so you can 'go'. Laxitive makes it really runny, so to speak :-)

Answer 3

Almost but not quite.  A stool softener, the name pretty much says it all, will soften your stool, and make it easier for the muscles to contract and push it out of the body.  A laxative works by making the body secreet enzyms and chemicals that tell the brain to flush everything out of the body, *and* it softens your stool at the same time.

So basically, a stool softener helps you out, but you have to do the dirty work.  A laxitive helps you out, then does the dirty work for you.

:-)

Answer 4

A stool softener is focused on the desired effect and there are laxatives that can soften stools too. Here's a site with a lot of info about stool softeners and even warnings.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/drugi...

One other thing to keep in mind if constipated that drinking a few glasses of water can help within minutes either way you must make a safe decision fro what's best for you.

Tip: Fenugreek herb is known as a bulk laxative and it comes in capsule form too. Look it up to see if you like it.

Good Luck!