Patient was educated on the side effects of using Senna as follows:
- Loss of urge
- Prolonged use of Senna may result in one losing the natural urge of having a bowel movement.
- Chronic use of Senna can lead to nerve damage in the colon and the colon becomes lax.
- The intestines might lose their natural function of elimination and become increasingly dependent on the use of laxative, to cause the effect of elimination.
- Melanosis coli
- Chronic use of Senna can lead to melanin accumulation in the inner lining of the intestines, especially the large intestine, thus turning it dark in color.
- This condition is called melanosis coli.
- Abdominal cramping
- Senna increases the intestinal contractions and consequently, result in intense abdominal cramping.
- Diarrhea and fecal incontinence
- Senna also has the potential to increase the frequency of diarrhea and fecal incontinence, secondary to increasing the intestinal contractions.
- Fluid and electrolyte imbalance
- Patients can present with fluid and electrolyte imbalance, secondary to the Senna induced diarrhea.
- Severe electrolyte imbalances can result in cardiac arrhythmias, muscle cramps, and weakness.
