Overview
Several problems associated with eating such as appetite loss, weight loss, and nausea can affect a person in the course of cancer treatment chemotherapy. Constipation can also be a major issue during chemotherapy. In order to address this problem, it is recommended that affected people should take meals on a regular basis each day. In addition, they should attempt bowel movement every day to find a bowel movement pattern. Bowel movements should be attempted at certain times to ensure consistency.
Chemotherapy and Constipation
There is no guarantee that all people who undergo chemotherapy will develop constipation. Nevertheless, the treatment process can contribute to hard stools that do not come out frequently. Such stools stay in your bowels for extremely long periods than expected. The situation worsens if you are inactive in terms of engaging in physical activity. It is likely to worsen because of the fatigue caused by cancer and treatment methods for cancer. The situation is also likely to worsen because of failure to drink adequate water or failure to eat foods that are rich in fiber. It is vital to consult your doctor to advise you on how to get your bowels moving before using laxatives and stool softeners.
Take Fluids or Water in Plenty
The first crucial step toward the effective treatment of constipation involves taking fluids in large quantities. The recommended amount is at least eight cups of fluids or water on a daily basis. These fluids and water can be either hot or warm. You can also loosen your bowels by drinking prune juice and other fruit juices.
Take Diets that are Rich in Fiber
You can improve your bowel movement by consuming foods that contain large amounts of fiber. However, it is not advisable for everyone to consume foods that are rich in fiber. This is because a high-fiber diet can harm people with certain cancers or those undergoing certain treatments. If your physician advises you to proceed with a fiber-rich diet, increase your consumption of fiber-rich foods. The foods that you should look for include cereals, bran, raw vegetables, cooked vegetables, whole bread, popcorn, fresh fruits, and dried fruits. People who are struggling with appetite loss or nausea should take lighter diets such as whole-wheat toasts and popcorn.
The increased consumption of fiber-rich foods can make gas a major problem. In such a situation, it is advisable to avoid diets that contain broccoli, dried beans, cauliflower, carbonated beverages, and cabbage.
When is it Advisable to Visit Your Doctor?
It is advisable to contact or visit a medical professional if you have not had any bowel movements within two days. The doctor is in a position to prescribe an alternative method to relieve the problem. It is also important to contact a medical professional if, besides constipation, you have nausea, stomach pain, and fever. Also, consult your doctor in case you are unable to pass gas or if you have a swollen or hard stomach. It is also crucial to contact your dietitian to help with constipation issues. A dietitian can figure out the appropriate diet to resolve the problem.
