Constipation with Cancer
Explanation | Treatment | When to call the Dr.
What is constipation?
Constipation is a common side effect of some of the cancer treatment drugs your child may be receiving including vincristine (Oncovin"). Pain medications like narcotics can also cause constipation. Constipation can cause:
- Changes in bowel patterns, such as pain, hard stools, or increased gas
- The stomach to become swollen or bigger
- A decreased appetite and changes in eating habits
Treatment
- Encourage your child to use the bathroom at the same time each day to establish a daily routine. Remind your child not to strain while trying to have a bowel movement.
- Encourage activity such as daily exercise or walks.
- Encourage your child to drink liquids such as water, prune juice and apple juice.
- Encourage your child to eat high fiber foods such as fruits, raw vegetables, raisins, cabbage, green beans, whole-wheat products, bran muffins, granola bars or dried prunes.
- Use prescribed medicine as instructed by your child's doctor. If your child gets diarrhea, stop using the medicine until the stool is formed again. Do not use enemas, stool softeners or suppositories without the doctor's consent.
Call your child's doctor
- If your child experiences a change in his normal bowel patterns, eating habits or appetite
- If your child experiences swelling or an enlarged stomach
- If diarrhea lasts for 1 day or more
- If there is no bowel movement in 1-2 days with prescribed medicines for constipation
Related Topics
Additional Resources Online
Patient Education Program IV 4034
Rev. 3/07
