Weight Gain After Overusing Laxatives: Health Risks and Solutions

Taking excessive laxatives has resulted in a weight gain of 20 kg over the past year?

Hello Doctor: A year ago, I used an enema for constipation, but it didn't work.
Later, I bought laxatives from a pharmacy, which did help me have bowel movements, and I became dependent on them, taking at least 5 pills a day, totaling around 100 pills.
However, I later experienced dizziness, dry skin, blurred vision, and yellowing of the skin, so I stopped taking laxatives.
I didn't see a doctor at that time, but over the past year, I have gained 20 kg.
My eating habits haven't changed much; I don't eat more than before.
I want to know if laxatives can still have an effect on my body after a year, or if they will be eliminated since I am now having regular bowel movements and no longer have constipation.
If the laxatives contained steroids, would they remain in my body? I had a blood test in early January, and everything was fine, but in August, when I visited a gynecologist, the doctor said I have an ovarian fibroma and advised me to lose weight immediately.
I'm unsure whether I should see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or a Western medicine doctor now.
I hope you can help me with this.
Thank you.

Wu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/08/31

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine

I wonder what kind of laxatives you are taking that allows you to consume more than five a day.
Laxatives should not contain steroids.
As for the 20 kilograms you gained over the past year, that is indeed a concern.
May I ask your height? We can calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index) using the formula: weight (kg) / height (m).
A normal BMI ranges from 20 to 24.9, and if it exceeds 30, it falls into the category of moderate obesity or higher.
I recommend that you consult an endocrinologist for your condition, and please avoid seeking unverified treatments in a state of urgency.

Reply Date: 2001/08/31

More Info

The use of laxatives, especially in excessive amounts, can lead to a variety of health issues, including significant weight gain, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal problems. In your case, it seems that after a year of using laxatives, you have experienced a weight gain of 20 kg despite not increasing your food intake. This situation raises several concerns that need to be addressed.

Firstly, it's important to understand that laxatives work by stimulating bowel movements. When used excessively, they can disrupt the normal functioning of your digestive system. Your body may become dependent on them, leading to a cycle where you feel unable to have a bowel movement without their use. This can cause your intestines to become less effective at moving waste through your system naturally, which can lead to constipation when you stop using them.

The symptoms you mentioned, such as dizziness, dry skin, blurred vision, and yellowing of the skin, could indicate several issues, including dehydration and potential liver problems. The yellowing of the skin, or jaundice, is particularly concerning as it may suggest liver dysfunction, which can be exacerbated by the use of certain medications, including laxatives. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional to evaluate these symptoms further.

Regarding your weight gain, while it is true that weight can fluctuate due to various factors, including water retention and changes in muscle mass, a sudden increase in weight after a prolonged period of laxative use could also be related to metabolic changes. Your body may have adjusted to the laxatives, and once you stopped using them, it could have led to a rebound effect where your body retains more water and fat.

You mentioned that you have been able to have regular bowel movements without the use of laxatives now, which is a positive sign. However, the concern about whether laxatives can have long-term effects on your body is valid. While most laxatives do not contain steroids, some types can lead to long-term changes in bowel function and electrolyte balance. It's essential to monitor your health closely and seek medical advice.

Given your situation, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, preferably a gastroenterologist, who specializes in digestive health. They can assess your current condition, evaluate any potential damage caused by laxative use, and help you develop a safe and effective plan for weight management and overall health improvement. Additionally, if you are experiencing symptoms related to your ovaries, such as the fibrous cysts mentioned, a gynecologist may also be necessary for a comprehensive evaluation.

In summary, the excessive use of laxatives can lead to significant health risks, including weight gain and gastrointestinal issues. It's crucial to seek medical advice to address your symptoms and develop a plan for recovery and weight management. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration are essential components of a healthy lifestyle, and a healthcare professional can guide you in making these changes safely.

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