Diarrhoea


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Prevention and Management of Diarrhoea


	There are many causes of diarrhoea in patients undergoing treatment for cancer, and it is essential that the appropriate cause is identified by your doctor in order that the correct treatment is undertaken promptly. *Severe diarrhoea:* If any of these features are present you should cease any chemotherapy medication and seek urgent medical advice: More than 4-6 bowel motions per day Bowel motions occurring during normal sleeping hours Presence of blood or mucus in the motion Associated cramping abdominal pain Associated nausea and vomiting Associated severe mouth soreness and/or ulceration Dehydration (dry tongue, excessive thirst, loss of skin elasticity) *Mild diarrhoea:* Proceed as follows: Encourage clear oral fluids, up to 2 litres per day or more, including clear soups, flat soft drinks, cordials, weak tea. Bland diet until the symptoms have resolved for 24-48 hrs. Mashed banana, rice bubbles, skim milk, jelly, blancmange, vegemite toast, steamed fish, boiled rice, clear soups, mashed potato, low-fat ice-cream. Use inhibitors of bowel contraction like loperamide (Lomotil) or Imodium, 1-2 tablets 8th hourly after bowel movements. In more severe cases your doctor may prescribe codeine phosphate, 30 mg tablets, 1-2 4th hourly as required. Seek medical advice about routine daily medications, but mostly these are OK. Avoid arthritis medication \| Beating Nausea \| Alopecia (Hair loss) \| Low blood counts and Infection \| Menstrual changes and Infertility \| Bad taste 'Dysgeusia' \| Mouth Soreness and Ulceration \| Indigestion and Heartburn \| Changes in Mental Function \| Nose Bleeds \| Bad smells \| Diarrhoea \| Anaemia \| Fatigue \| Depression \| \| What's New \| FAQ Page \| Living with chemotherapy \| Dietary Advice \| Exercise \| The Flu Vaccine \| Insomnia \| Marijuana \| Alternative Medicine \| Managing Menopause \| Advice to Carers \| Breast Cancer \| Pain \| Useful Tips \| Chemotherapy: The What and How \| MRI Screening \| \| Your Cancer Information \| \| Return Home \| New Patients \| Services and Clinics \| Useful Links \| Contact Us \| Download Page \| Cancer Information \|