Doctor’s warning about side effects of paracetamol that can affect the toilet

Stacked in many medical cabinets in our homes, paracetamol is an essential analgesic for treating various aches and pains.

Many take the little white pill without thinking twice about its side effects, but there are some side effects to be aware of, just like with any other medication.

Although the vast majority of people taking paracetamol have nothing to worry about, some people may experience changes in their bowel habits, according to Dr Deborah Lee, of online pharmacy Dr Fox.

Diarrhea and constipation

Considered common side effects of this popular medication, diarrhea and constipation occur in one to 10 percent of users.

Dr Lee said: Users may also complain of stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and indigestion.

The good news is that paracetamol rarely causes side effects as long as you follow the recommended dose.

In case you don’t know, the standard serving is one or two 500 mg paracetamol tablets taken up to four times in a 24 hour period.

Although it may be tempting to continue using pain relief when you have constant pain, the doctor warned that this is very dangerous.

She said: Even taking a few extra tablets can have very serious and even fatal consequences.

If you ingest too much of the popular pain reliever, you can develop liver failure which can lead to another side effect that carries over to the toilet.

Clay colored stools

The doctor explained that an overdose of paracetamol can cause jaundice, which describes the yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Jaundice may also be accompanied by clay-colored stools that appear light grayish white, resembling clay or putty.

Dr Lee added that such symptoms usually occur a few days after a paracetamol overdose.

Black Tar Stools

Another paracetamol-related problem that can be spotted when opting for a number two is melena.

The doctor said: Melena – black, tarry stools, although rare – has been reported in people taking paracetamol long-term.

The stools appear black because the bleeding has occurred in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract (usually the esophagus or stomach) and as the red blood passes through the intestines it takes on its characteristic black color of old blood.

If you notice any changes in your bowel habits while taking popular pain relievers, you should stop taking them, Dr. Lee advised.

She added: However, if you have black stools or ever see red blood in your stools, in the toilet or on toilet paper, report it to your GP straight away.

True melena is a medical emergency and requires urgent evaluation. Go to A&E immediately or call 999.

Fortunately, most people will be able to take paracetamol without problems, as pain relief is considered a useful and safe medication.

But as with any medication, it should be taken judiciously and if side effects occur or medical history changes, its use should be reviewed, Dr Lee said.