Sorry to ask the age old poo question but I would really appreciate anyone’s advice/experience. I have secondary liver cancer from an unknown primary and about to start my 3rd lot of chemotherapy following my tumours beginning to grow again. So my main problem is all my drugs stop my bowels and I desperately need to take strong painkillers. How do others manage to balance bowel motions between laxatives and painkillers as I seem to go a lot or not at all.
I do drink loads but find walking difficult due to the pain and eating can be up or down depending on where I am with chemo.
thank you
Hi and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your diagnosis and your ongoing problems.
Constipation is one of the horrible issues you have to deal with, I did ok-ish even although I was in high levels of painkillers and steroids, my team told me to regularly take a few Laxido sachets every day and in the whole protected me along with all the foods that are recognised as being good for overcoming the problem.
You may find talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer journey (my one is completely different) will help you navigate this difficult time as different treatments bring different problems.
There are many cancer types so likewise the Community has many cancer specific support groups and I see you have joined our supportive Liver, secondary cancer group as this will be a good place to connect with folks on the same cancer treatment pathway.
To go to the group just click on the link above then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
All the very best ((hugs))
