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Constipation is the infrequent or difficult passage of hard
stool (feces), which often causes pain and discomfort. It is caused by
too little fluid or not enough movement in the bowel. Lack of activity,
weakness, ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement, pain medicine, or
poor food and fluid intake can all add to this problem.
What to look for
- Small, hard bowel movements
- Leakage of soft, liquid stool that looks like diarrhea
- Stomach ache or cramps
- Passing a lot of gas or frequent belching
- Belly looks blown up or puffy
- No regular bowel movement within the past 3 days
- Vomiting or nausea
- Feeling of fullness or discomfort
What the patient can do
- Drink more fluids. Pasteurized fruit juices and warm or hot
fluids in the morning are especially helpful.
- Increase the amount of fiber in the daily diet by eating
foods like:
- Whole grain breads and cereals
- Fresh raw fruits with skins and seeds
- Fresh raw vegetables
- Fruit juices
- Dates, apricots, raisins, prunes, prune juice, and nuts
- Avoid foods and drinks that cause gas such as cabbage,
broccoli, and fizzy drinks.
- Avoid or cut back on any foods that make you constipated,
such as cheese or eggs.
- Get as much light exercise as you can.
- Do not use enemas or suppositories. Use stool softeners or
laxatives only after talking with your doctor or nurse.
- Go to the bathroom as soon as you have the urge to have a
bowel movement.
- Keep a record of bowel movements so that problems can be
noticed quickly.
What caregivers can do
- Offer prune juice, hot lemon water, coffee, or tea to help
stimulate bowel movements.
- Encourage extra fluids.
- Help keep a record of bowel movements.
- Offer high fiber foods such as whole grains, dried fruits,
and bran.
- Talk with the doctor before using laxatives.
Call the doctor if the patient:
- has not had a bowel movement in 48 hours
- has blood in or around anal area or in stool (see section
on blood in stool)
- cannot move bowels within 1 or 2 days after taking laxative
- has cramps or vomiting that doesn't stop
Go to a list of symptoms to find
other problems in Caring for the
Patient with Cancer at Home: A Guide for Patients and Families.
Revised: 04/07/08
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