Chemotherapy may affect the cells lining the intestines and this may cause diarrhea (frequent, loose or watery bowel movements). If the diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or causes pain, bleeding, or weakness, the patient must consult his or her physician. Patients should not use over-the-counter medicines without consulting their doctor. The doctor may prescribe a medication to control the diarrhea. If the diarrhea still continues, the patient may need intravenous (IV) fluids to compensate for the loss of fluid and nutrients. Usually the condition does not require hospitalization.
Here are a number of ways to manage diarrhea:
- Use anti-diarrheal medications prescribed by your physician.
- Drink as much fluid as possible. This will help compensate for what you have lost. Water, vegetable broth, and sports drinks like Gatorade can be useful. Ask your doctor what liquids he advises you to drink when you are having diarrhea. Avoid alcohol, and tea or coffee with caffeine.
- Large meals can make diarrhea worse. Small amounts of food all through the day instead of three large meals are easier for your body to digest.
- If your diarrhea cannot be controlled by medication and oral fluids, you may need intravenous fluid so you do not get dehydrated.
- You may need to work with a dietitian if certain foods seem to worsen your diarrhea. It is important to get necessary nutrients and calories. A dietitian can help you find ways to do that.
- Your doctor may suggest that chemotherapy be withheld during this time.
Dr. Kaplan
