How bad can constipation get? After taking something like stool softner will it work immediately?

Firstly, I am so sorry, constipation is the worst!

Secondly, I have always made sure to drink plenty of water and eaten food high in fibre when in this predicament (Bran cereal, prunes etc). If this does not assist and I am still in discomfort, I will resort to taking a laxative such as Metamucil (possibly spelling error here, apologies).

Finally, good luck with that. I know that you will find relief eventually :P

A quick fix is a glycerine suppository. It works after between 15–30 minutes if you are really uncomfortable. Not something to use regularly, however.

I may be wrong, but I don’t think stool softeners actually help you “go”..they just make the poop softer. You’d need a laxative to actually make you poop, and no, those don’t work right away. They usually take a few hours, and for some people (me) they don’t seem to work at all. Diets high in fiber and water, as @Rachienz said, can help a lot, but for faster relief I’d say you should get yourself some Ex-lax.

Just as @gailcalled said, glycerine suppositories are what you’re looking for. They work usually in about 20 minutes, and are a lifesaver. The stool softener won’t make you go, unless it also had a laxative in it. If you’re in the US, go to the pharmacy and buy some Fleet suppositories.

Related note: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” was originally meant to promote healthy digestion, as apples are very high in fiber, and with that fiber comes regularity and ease, which is healthful for a lot of reasons.

You need to change your lifestyle to “fix” constipation. Drink more water, eat more fiber, exercise. Laxatives can be counterproductive if taken too often.

Whatever you do, when you increase your intake of fiber, be sure to increase the amount of water you drink. For the love of God, you will have bad news bears if you eat tons of fiber without drinking enough water.

I gave some useful advice here. Also, just be sure it isn’t something more severe, as in this case of “constipation”.