Constipation

Hi Linda

I found chemo less challenging than some with only minor side effects but I have to say the WORST thing was the bl00dy constipation, I have a really good relationship with my bowels and was distraught that this was shattered due to chemo and GA during surgeries.  I took dulcoease as its quite gentle, my issue was the stools needed softening rather than help moving per se so when I took sennacott initially it just compounded the problem (trying to move something that was not for shifting!), unlike your issue my stools were rock hard.  Nothing that would normally hasten a jolly good cr4p worked, only the Dulcoease and it took a few days but certainly did the trick, I got into the habit of keeping a 'poo diary' (I really need to add that it's a sh** read...sorry, couldn't help myself) so I knew when in the chemo cycle to start the Dulcoease, when it would kick in and when I could stop as something resembling normal service had resumed.

Also top tip re trying to go (and you may already know this) elevate your feet (I kept war & peace in the bathroom) and bend forward as its a more natural position to expel waste!!

I feel for you and hope you get unblocked soon...the relief is undescribable!  I would also mention to the chemo team who may be able to advise based on your individual circumstance.

Sam

I get bought - not chemo related .  A hot bath and serious massage if tummy.can help .  I've tried raising the feet too but not worked for me.  I also do touch my toes exercises .  I have found after a back massage either aromatherapy or just physio related were very productive!  I try to distract my seas anxiety makes  it worse.  The only downside of no periods for me is I don't have my monthly clear out that I always had on day two of my period !  Such a good clear out I was fine for a week !

Hi Lcf,

I am suffering from constipation, too. The problem is I seem to develope fissure and it takes ages to heal even if the bowel output is fine. It has been worse after each cycke. I am taking movicol reqularly now to control things but it is very painful at times. I am going to talk to oncologist this week to have a plan to prevent this next cycle if I can. XX

Hi Linda ,

Lactulose has been my “go to” product during the 4 x EC sessions I’ve had so far. I take a dose the night before my session is due and then continue to do that for about 5-6 nights after session or when I think it’s returned to a more normal state. It’s very gentle and was recommended by my BCN.

Hope you find something that works for you

Nardine x

I got bad constipation each time, a couple of cycles better than others. I got laxido and sennokat from my oncologist and I had lactulose in the house to have before I got those. Having experienced it fairly badly - and painfully - I would advice getting both types of relief from your onc or GP (stool-softening and stimulating) and starting them a couple of days before your cycle. I got complacent a couple of times and regretted it.

Walking helps too but I needed some medical help too!

It is really uncomfortable, don't suffer. Tell your oncologist and they can do something for you and if you're still bad tomorrow, call you GP and get something for it.