Mineral Oil Laxative Side Effects

When our body is unable to process the consumed food, it leads to constipation. There are many reasons for constipation like inability to process the food, lack of fiber in the food, not enough exercise, etc. Mineral oil for constipation is a popular remedy. If taken in excess or if it does not suit your body, then it can cause several side effects. Even if used for a longer period of time, it can have an adverse effect on your body. Read more on natural laxative as a cure for relieving constipation. Below mentioned are a few commonly observed mineral oil laxative side effects.

Side Effects of Mineral Oil

Mineral oil might give rise to decreased bowel movements. Six to eight hours after ingesting mineral oil, the bowel movement is prevented. Excess usage of mineral oil might make a person stop feeling the natural urge to defecate. It might give rise to health problems like bloating, abdominal cramping, nausea, bloating, soreness and vomiting. Diarrhea is one of the common mineral oil laxative side effects. Mineral oil laxative for children can cause pneumonia. It is caused due to the inhalation of droplets. The same can also happen in elderly people. Pregnant women should refrain from mineral oil as it might prevent the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Excess usage of mineral oil by pregnant women might lead to fetal bleeding.

Other mineral oil laxative side effects are development of different kind of skin allergies like rashes, hives, etc. Difficulty in breathing and tightening in the chest are symptoms of mineral oil side effects. Excess mineral oil can cause leakage from the rectum. Due to cracks in the skin, it can cause bleeding of the rectum. It also gives rise to swelling of mouth, lips, face and tongue. It can interfere in the absorption of vitamins like A, D, E and K. It is better to consume it after 2 hours after having meals. If taken before that, it might interfere with the digestion of food. Repeated usage of mineral oil with a stool softener may result in the formation of tumor like deposits in the tissues.

Pregnant and breast feeding women should take advice of a medical practitioner before taking mineral oil. People suffering from inflamed bowel diseases should avoid mineral oil as it might intensify the disease. People on medication should avoid the consumption of mineral oil as it might interfere with the medication. All those allergic to different medicines, foods or any other substances should avoid mineral oil. If you have had a heart attack, kidney problems or appendicitis, are advised to stay away from mineral oil. If you are taking dietary supplements or any kind of herbs, then do not consume mineral oil as it might interfere with them. All those having blockage of intestines and those who are bedridden should avoid mineral oil in order to avoid adverse effects. Read more on dangers of mineral oil.

Read more on

• Laxatives for Weight Loss
• Mineral Oil as Laxative

After knowing mineral oil laxative side effects, we will have to think twice before taking it. It is better to avoid constipation than taking mineral oil for curing it. In order to avoid constipation, you can drink lots of water and consume healthy food. And along with this, exercising is a must.