Stomach cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting bile,

Dear cas427,

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community.  My name is Kelly and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here at Macmillan Cancer Support.

We’re sorry to hear that your mum is still experiencing worsening sickness, diarrhoea and stomach pains. Your mum does sound very uncomfortable at the moment which must be distressing for her and yourself as you are trying your best to support her at this time.

As you mention it is best to get these symptoms investigated further at this time to understand better what is causing this.

Due to the previous sepsis ruling out infection would be a good idea.

It is also possible to have a long-term history of constipation and still pass watery stool which looks like diarrhoea called overflow.  This is when diarrhoea can leak through the build-up of solid poo.

This is known as faecal impaction which can lead to a more serious problem called a bowel blockage.  This can cause other symptoms such as feeling sick or tummy pain. This would need an urgent assessment today to make sure this isn’t happening.

Sadly, we also know that towards end of life some people may experience normal physical changes to the body.  Worsening bowel problems such as constipation isn’t uncommon.  This can happen when someone is not moving around or eating and drinking as much. 

Our information exploring emotional and physical changes at end of life may be beneficial to help guide with any changes you have observed with your mum.

Regardless of what the cause of the increasing frequency of the symptoms there is likely to be interventions to help resolve or control these better for your mum.

If you haven’t already done so we would encourage you to get back in touch with your mum’s GP for an urgent home appointment today. As they are directly involved with her care, they are best placed to assess any symptoms and the best management for these.

I’m aware that you mention that your mum is receiving end of life palliative care too. If your mum has the support from a Community Palliative care team including a named Palliative Care Nurse, it would be a good idea to contact them too.

These teams are sometimes based within or work closely with local hospices which also offer what is known as ‘hospice at home’ support.  If you aren’t sure about or have lost the contact details for a palliative care nurse a local hospice may be able to find the details for you.

Although getting support for your mum is the priority today it is important to take time to look after yourself too.

If at any time you need a listening ear or would like to talk through any concerns about your mum we do have nurses available on our supportive phone helpline if needed.

Take care,

Kelly

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts.  Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

Ref: KA/LA

Hi Kelly,

Thank you so much for your reply. This is really helpful to know. I contacted mum's GP this morning and a doctor has visited today. It is likely to be a faecal compaction or blockage, they've prescribed something to hopefully soften and resolve it.

Thank you for the links to information. My family and myself are always trying to remain positive throughout this difficult time. For me, reading and learning really helps, I've honestly learned so much over these last 7years. 

Thanks again.