Is there any side effect of drinking senna leaves for constipation?
Disease description:
I have been experiencing frequent constipation lately, and even when I feel the urge to defecate, I cannot pass stool. My abdomen feels bloated and hard. I am considering using senna leaves to relieve my constipation. May I ask if drinking senna leaf tea for constipation has any side effects?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Long-term or improper use of senna leaves by individuals with constipation may cause side effects:
1. Excessive dependence can lead to intestinal dysfunction. Prolonged use of stimulant laxatives weakens the intestine's natural peristaltic ability. Once usage stops, constipation may become more severe, leading to dependency.
2. It may cause electrolyte imbalance. Frequent diarrhea results in significant loss of body fluids and electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium. If not replenished timely, symptoms such as dehydration, fatigue, and arrhythmia may occur.
3. Overdose or long-term use may cause various problems, including dependency, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal discomforts, and may even trigger severe conditions such as allergic reactions and impaired brain function.
For patients with chronic constipation, it is recommended to adopt healthier lifestyle modifications to improve symptoms, such as increasing dietary fiber intake, maintaining regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate fluid intake.
