Constipation in cancer patients

This is an automatically translated article.


Article written by MSc Quach Thanh Dung - Radiation Oncology Center - Vinmec Times City International Hospital
Constipation is when you have infrequent bowel movements, the stools can be hard, dry, and difficult to pass. You may also experience stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea when you're constipated.

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can cause constipation. Certain medications (such as pain relievers), dietary changes, not drinking enough fluids, and being sedentary can also cause constipation. Constipation causes discomfort for patients, severe cases can lead to intestinal obstruction requiring surgical intervention. Preventing constipation is easier and more beneficial than treating its complications.

Táo bón ở bệnh nhân ung thư
Táo bón ở bệnh nhân ung thư

Take the following steps to prevent or treat constipation


Eat foods rich in fiber. Adding bran to foods like cereals or smoothies is an easy way to get more fiber in your diet. Talk to your dietitian about how many grams of fiber your diet needs each day. If you have ever had an intestinal blockage or bowel surgery, you should not eat a high-fiber diet. Drink lots of fluids. Drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day. You may need to take more depending on your treatment, the type of medication you're taking, or other factors. Drinking warm or hot water and juices can also help.

Trắc nghiệm: Thử hiểu biết của bạn về bệnh ung thư

Ung thư là nguyên nhân gây tử vong hàng thứ 2 trên thế giới. Thử sức cùng bài trắc nghiệm sau đây sẽ giúp bạn có thêm kiến thức về yếu tố nguy cơ cũng như cách phòng ngừa bệnh ung thư.

Bài dịch từ: webmd.com


Increase daily exercise to increase bowel movements. Discuss with your doctor about exercises you can do. Most people can do light exercise, even in bed or a chair. In addition, you can choose to walk or exercise bike for 15 to 30 minutes a day. Find out what medications you are taking. Use only medications and constipation treatments prescribed by your doctor, as some can lead to bleeding, infection, or other dangerous side effects in people undergoing cancer treatment. Record the number of bowel movements and the nature of stools daily to share with your doctor or nurse.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.


Article referenced source: Cancer.org
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