Dr. Oz: Over-The-Counter Solutions For Constipation
Dr. Oz talked about the top over-the-counter solutions to our everyday problems. First he talked to Joan, who suffered from constipation.
Joan has frequent constipation and isn’t always regular. She also doesn’t eat well all the time. She needed a solution to alleviate the constipation and bloating.
So Dr. Oz talked to Walmart pharmacist Stephanie, whose solution was for Joan to take a laxative. Really? That’s the solution? Do we need Dr. Oz for this?
Dr. Oz: What is an Osmotic Laxative?
Dr. Oz talked about some great over-the-counter solutions to common problems, including taking osmotic laxatives for constipation and ibuprofen for aches. (mandritoiu / Shutterstock.com)
Stephanie suggested an osmotic laxative in particular, which helps relieve constipation by pulling water into the bowels to soften the stool. This helps the bowel pass whatever is in there.
Once you take an osmotic laxative, you should have a bowel movement within 1 to 3 days. Joan said this was a wonderful alternative to the raisins her mom made her eat when she was a kid.
Dr. Oz: Antihistamines Help Allergies
Bonnie had a complaint, too. She has allergies and sinus issues. She works in a dusty, old building, so she has difficulty breathing. She takes hot showers, uses compresses, and uses a humidifier. Is there anything else she can do?
If you’ve ever been to a pharmacy and/or had allergies and/or have common sense, you know the solution here is to take an over-the-counter antihistamine. Dr. Oz did warn this can make you drowsy, so make sure you know how it affects you before you drive.
Dr. Oz: Take Ibuprofen for Aches and Pains
Irene’s complaint was aches and pains. She has no driver’s license, so she takes the bus and the train and walks everywhere else. She also teaches kindergarten. She’s tried yoga to stretch her muscles.
Stephanie suggested ibuprofen, which temporarily reduces aches and pains, as well as fever. With any over-the-counter pain medication, it’s important to talk to a health care professional if you have any questions before using it.
Dr. Oz: Name Brand Vs. Store Brand
Stephanie also explained that the only difference between store brand products and name brand is the price. Store brand products are regulated by the FDA just like brand name products. They’re held to the same FDA-mandated manufacturing standards and have the same active ingredient.
At Walmart, you can save up to 50 percent more than other private drug store brands, according to Stephanie.
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