A condition in which movements are infrequent, incomplete or an individual experiences difficulty in, passing stool.

How do people describe treatment-related constipation?

Individuals experiencing constipation have described symptoms of constipation as a distention or bloating of the abdomen, a pressure or sense of fullness in the rectal area, small amounts of loose stools or "leaking", small frequent "smears" of stool, rectal pain with a bowel movement, and constantly feeling the need to have a bowel movement but unable to pass stool.

What causes treatment-related constipation?

The cause of constipation related to cancer treatment varies among individuals. Constipation can be caused by pain medications (narcotics), emotional stress, fever, changes in diet, or decreases in physical activity. Constipation is a common problem for people who are weak, spend a lot of time in bed, and /or are not eating well.

How do people cope with treatment-related constipation?

Here are some helpful strategies to minimize this problem:

• Gradually add foods high in fiber to the diet. Examples of these foods are:
• Whole grain cereals and breads.
  • Dried fruits such as prunes and raisins.
  • Popcorn, nuts, and seeds.
  • Beans and legumes.
  • Raw fruits and vegetables.
• Drink plenty of fluids, at least 6-8 glasses of liquid per day such as prune juice. (Avoid caffeine).
• Drink hot or warm liquids such as hot lemon water or tea.
• Exercise every day. Even mild exercise, such as walking, helps
• Avoid regular use of enemas, if possible.
• Take 1 or 2 stool softeners every day, and use a laxative if taking narcotics.
• Maintain a daily schedule of prevention. First try diet and exercise, then medicines, and follow a daily schedule just the way you do with other medicines. Daily attention to eating helpful foods, drinking liquids, and taking preventive medicines will add up to successful prevention.

When should I report symptoms to my doctor or nurse?

You should contact your doctor or nurse if :

• The normal routine was once a day and now there has been no bowel movement in 3 or 4 days.
• The normal routine was every other day and now there has been no bowel movement in 4 or 5 days.
• Severe straining on the toilet or commode.
• Severe abdominal pain or an abdomen that feels harder than ' normal and very full.
• Red blood around the outside of the stools or problems with hemorrhoids. Report any pain or bleeding.

Who can I contact for more information?

• Contact the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/.
• Contact the National Cancer Institute at http://cancer.gov/cancerinformation.

This information was conducted in affiliation with the Walther Cancer Institute, Indianapolis, IN