Constipation is a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, difficulty in passing stool, hard stools, incomplete emptying of the bowel, or any combination of these. It is an uncomfortable yet common side effect of medications for pain, nausea, or chemotherapy medications such as vincristine, vinblastine, or vinorelbine. Other causes of constipation include:
- Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.
- Not having enough time or privacy to use the toilet.
- Decreased activity or mobility.
- Decreased fluid intake.
- Not eating enough fiber from sources such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Illnesses such as diabetes, depression, diverticulosis, Parkinson's disease, hypothyroidism, or hypercalcemia.
Tips to Help Prevent or Treat Constipation
- Use the suggestions below to help you prevent or treat constipation.
- Establish a pattern of using the bathroom to promote regularity.
- Respond to the urge to have a bowel movement immediately.
- Exercise as tolerated; walking is an excellent form of exercise.
- Drink eight, 8-ounce glasses (2 liters) of fluid daily. Water, juices, soups, ice cream shakes, and other beverages are some of the fluids you could have.
- Gradually increase the daily amount of fiber in your diet to a total of 25 - 35 grams. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and cereals contain fiber.
Please refer to the Patient Information Fact Card "Fiber Fact Card." If you have an ostomy or have had recent abdominal surgery, please check with your doctor or nurse before making any changes in your diet.
