Constipation
Constipation occurs when your stool becomes hard, dry and difficult to pass and passes less frequently than normal. Other symptoms may include painful bowel movements and feeling bloated, uncomfortable and sluggish.
What causes constipation?
Cancer drugs disrupt nerve signals to your abdomen, affecting your bowel cycle. Pain-relieving medications can also reduce your bowel activity. Lifestyle changes, especially if you are less active during treatment, can contribute to constipation, as can a change in your diet, especially drinking less fluids and eating less fiber. Many other imbalances within your body during treatment can affect your ability to pass stools.
When does constipation typically occur?
Constipation can happen at any time during treatment and depends greatly on its origin. If the constipation is related to your drug therapy, it is typically worse during treatment and will lessen in the weeks following your last dose.
How you can manage constipation.
The best way to manage constipation is to prevent it. Talk to your health care provider about preventive medications, dietary changes or lifestyle changes. In addition, drink more liquids, eat more fiber or take fiber supplements, and be more active.
When to call your health care provider.
Let your health care team know if you are experiencing constipation for more than one day.
Don’t be embarrassed to talk about constipation with your health care providers. They are well aware that you may experience it. Also, make them aware of your normal bowel habits before starting treatment. This can help determine how proactive they want to be in prescribing over-the-counter drugs for bowel management.
