Diarrhea is the condition when the consistency and frequency of stool becomes unformed and frequent respectively. The problem becomes serious if diarrhea continues for long time. It indicates the inability of the body to absorb water and nutrients. As a result, the body is dehydrated and is nutrient deficient.

Diarrhea is commonly experienced by patients undergoing cancer treatment or chemotherapy. Also cancer itself causes diarrhea.

Common possible causes of diarrhea

Some of the reasons for diarrhea include –

• Anxiety
• Infection in the intestine
• Lactose intolerance
• Inflammatory bowel syndrome
• Radiation therapy on the abdomen/pelvis
• Any surgery in the pelvis
• Certain medicines such as antacids, laxatives, antibiotics, etc

Why cancer patients have diarrhea?

Cancer treatment such as radiation therapy on certain body part, surgery, chemotherapy causes diarrhea.

In cancer patients the immunity is usually low. This makes a body prone to various infections such as diarrhea. Also certain medicines can cause diarrhea.

Cancers such as colon cancer, lymphoma, pancreatic cancer, medullary carcinoma of the thyroid gland

How to manage diarrhea

Diarrhea need to be managed well before it takes a toll on your health. Some of the measures to manage diarrhea due to chemotherapy are –

• Drink atleast 8-10 glasses of water in a day.
• Eat foods that has less fibre content.
• Avoid fried foods, spices, alcohol, foods that forms gas, raw fruits and vegetables, etc.
• Take medicines for diarrhea after consulting a doctor.
• Eat small meals in frequent intervals.
• Avoid eating preservatives, candies, pastries.
• Avoid drinking milk or consuming milk products.
• Wash the anal area with warm water

When to seek help from your healthcare provider

Diarrhea can cause serious problem if ignored. Consult your doctor if diarrhea is affecting your daily routine or you have any of the following signs and symptoms –

• Frequent bowel movement for more than a day
• Presence of blood in the stool
• Fever
• Not able to control the bowel movement
• Abdominal cramps and dizziness

Ways to manage diarrhea

If you are suffering from diarrhea, following points will help to manage the problem in the initial level.

Drink lot of water and juices.

Consume foods and fruits that are low in fiber

Take probiotics

Avoid foods that are not easily digestible

Divide your meal in small portions and eat 5-6 times a day

Taking immediate medical help will manage cancer related diarrhea. Intake of certain medicines can have adverse effect in cancer patients. Hence, do not take over the counter medicines.

There are various medications available for diarrhea in cancer patients. Some of the common medicines used are anti-secretory agents and opioids. However, what medicines your body needs depends upon the severity of diarrhea and the underlying cause.

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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