What is constipation

Constipation is a condition when the bowel movement is infrequent, stool becomes dry, hard to pass and is difficult to pass out of the body.

How chemotherapy cause constipation

Chemotherapy affects the internal lining of the intestine. As a result constipation occurs.

Change in diet, daily activities and cancer medicines are triggering factor for irregular bowel movement.

Symptoms of constipation

No fixed schedule of bowel movement. The waste from the body might be eliminated on different days than usual. The infrequent passing of stools becomes consistent in constipation.

The stool is hard and it becomes difficult to eliminate it from the body. The stool passed is in small quantities and the removal of the stool from the body is not satisfactory. 

You must consult a doctor in following situations

• Abdominal pain
• Not able to pass flatulence
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• If you are not able to pass stool even after taking treatment
• Swollen stomach
• Loss of appetite
• Not able to pass urine
• Confusion

If you are suffering from given symptoms it is advised to consult your healthcare provider. As untreated constipation can lead to serious health issues.

Factors responsible for constipation

Poor eating habits, less intake of fluids and sedentary lifestyle are the main factors for constipation

Bowel cancer or bowel obstruction due to any reason

Problem in thyroid gland

Diabetes

Low level of potassium

Hypercalcemia

How to prevent constipation

Here are some of the tips that can help you prevent constipation –

1. Fibrous food aids in smooth elimination of body waste.
2. Avoid foods and drinks that enhance the symptoms of constipation.
3. Drinking at-least 8-10 glasses of water a day is helpful in managing constipation.
4. Keep moving and be active. Light exercise or 30 minutes of walk everyday improves the bowel movement.
5. Do not take medicines without the doctor’s prescription as it may cause side effects.
6. If you have been prescribed medicines then make sure to follow it.
7. Track your bowel movement.

Constipation is common in cancer patients. It can be a cause of cancer or occur as a side effect of cancer treatment. Also a chronic constipation increases risk of colorectal cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider of any sign and symptoms of constipation. Communicating your problem helps the healthcare provider treat the cause and also prevent future occurrence. 

About Mozocare

Mozocare is a medical access platform for hospitals and clinics to assist patients to access the best medical care at affordable prices. It offers medical information, medical treatment, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, laboratory consumables, and other allied services.

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