In general, a laxative is any medication that will cause a person to have a bowel movement. 1  Laxatives vary widely both in their form and in their effectiveness. Laxatives that are used before a colonoscopy, for example, are going to work quicker and with more vigor than ones that are used for a case of occasional constipation.
- Family and Medical Leave Act Advisor. Serious Health Condition. For purposes of FMLA, serious health condition means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves inpatient care or continuing treatment by a health care provider.
Under the FMLA, the facts of each situation must be analyzed in determining whether someone has a serious health condition. The effect of the ailment, treatment sought, and so on determine whether the FMLA applies. Nonetheless, there are certain ailments that don't typically qualify as serious health conditions, including: colds and flu; earaches