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Van Elslander Cancer Center:(313) 884-5522 Doctors Park:(810) 326-1229
Webber Cancer Center:(586) 576-1615 Macomb Medical Campus:(586) 868-9090
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Constipation

A person can generally be considered "constipated" when they have not had a bowel movement in 3 days.  Constipation is a common side effect of many chemotherapies, anti-emetics and pain medications.  Below are ways to prevent and manage constipation while receiving treatment.  If you find that these methods are not effective and/or you are experiencing abnormal abdominal pain, call the office for further assistance.

To Prevent Constipation

  • Eat foods high in fiber such as bran, whole wheat breads and cereals, vegetables, fresh and dried fruits, nuts and popcorn.
  • Walk daily as tolerated because exercise will simulate bowel movements
  • Drink 8, 8oz glasses of water daily

If you become constipated

  • Take Senokot S, 1 tablet twice daily
  • If you are still constipated 24 hours after starting the Senokot S tablets, increase to two tablets twice daily
  • If this does not help in 24 hours, take 2 tablespoons of Milk of Magnesia at bedtime followed by 8 oz of water.  This may be repeated after 8 hours.
  • If no bowel movement by the fourth day, call your doctor or nurse.  you may need to take 1 bottle of Citrate of Magnesia 4-5 hours before bedtime.  Wait for OK from doctors or nurses prior to starting this.

 

After constipation is resolved, continue using Senokot S daily at a dose that is effective for you.

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