Chronic laxative use may lead to which complication?

• A. Electrolyte imbalance
• B. Dehydration
• C. Abdominal cramps
• D. Kidney stones

Answer: (A)

Chronic laxative use repeatedly lowers the body's supply of fluids and electrolytes because these substances are lost with every bowel movement. This ongoing loss most directly disrupts electrolyte balance, with potassium for example commonly decreasing (hypokalemia) and other ions like sodium and bicarbonate affected as well. Such imbalances can have serious systemic effects, including weakness, confusion, and even heart rhythm problems, making electrolyte disturbance the primary clinical concern with long-term laxative use. Dehydration can accompany laxative use, but it’s the electrolyte disturbances that reflect the deeper, more consequential disruption of body function. Abdominal cramps are a common, more immediate side effect during use, and kidney stones are not a typical direct result of chronic laxative use.