Expert: Nafeesah - 3/30/2009

Question
Hi. I have heard this past weekend about a person abusing laxatives. I'm a college student, and i have a friend who i think is doing this. I want to talk to her about it, but i would like to know a little myself about this, before i confront her. she is a sweet girl, and you wouldn't think she would be doing something like this. I just need a little information about the risks she may have, and how i can confront her, and talk with her about it, and have a little bit of understanding about it. thank you.

Answer
People who are dealing with eating disorders who abuse laxatives are facing serious heart and kidney problems because it can throw the body's potassium levels off which is vital for kidney and heart health. The fact that laxatives contain chemicals that can force the body to purge too much of its fluids and if your friend keeps abusing this over the counter drug used for ocassional constipation and bowel movement issues she could cause herself to have massive organ failure either by her kidneys shutting down or her heart having irregular beating. This is serious she could kill herself if she continues to abuse these laxatives. I would stage an intervention with yourself and mutual friends to address this issue with her so you're not alone and being accused of something.