Stool softeners aren’t habit-forming

Dear Dr. Roach: I’m an 84-year-old male who has recently found relief from lifelong strain in bowel movements by using stool softeners. I would like to know if they’re habit-forming if taken once a day. I’ve tried Metamucil without as good of results. Please comment on both. Thank you.

B.C.

Answer: Straining for a bowel movement is unhealthy to the bowel and puts increased stress on many structures, leaving a person at higher risk for developing diverticula of the colon and symptomatic hemorrhoids. Firstline

treatment for hard bowel movements includes regular exercise and dietary changes, especially increasing fresh fruit and other foods containing fiber. One food that is especially helpful is prunes.

When diet changes alone are inadequate, then medical treatment is appropriate. Psyllium husk, such as in Metamucil, is another time-tested treatment that is effective. Stool softeners, such as sodium docusate (Colace and others), are another option. Most people find psyllium is superior, but if the stool softeners are working well for you, there is no need to stop them.

They are safe and do not cause any kind of habituation nor long-term effects on the colon.

Dear Dr. Roach: Can a skin test show if a person will react poorly to a COVID-19 vaccine? I’ve had serious allergic reactions to so many meds! I’m too afraid to risk getting the shot. Can it be given in half doses to lessen potential adverse effects?

M.L.

Answer: People with a history of severe allergic reaction should be referred to an allergist for evaluation prior to vaccination.

The vaccine should be given where trained experts and appropriate equipment is available in the unlikely case of a severe reaction.

People with other kinds of allergic responses to foods or medicines, such as a rash to penicillin, are probably at no higher risk than the general population to get a severe reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine. You should speak with your physician about your personal risk.