Constipation and How it Affects People with Cancer 

Understanding constipation during cancer treatment

Constipation is a common side effect that people with cancer experience. Constipation can have a significant impact on comfort, daily activities, and quality of life.

For some people, constipation develops because of cancer treatments. It may also be related to medications, changes in diet, reduced physical activity, or the cancer itself. Understanding why constipation happens and knowing when to seek help can help patients manage symptoms more effectively.

What is constipation?

Constipation is a change in your normal bowel habits. It may mean having fewer bowel movements than usual, difficulty passing stool, or stool that is hard, dry, or painful to pass.  Some people may also experience bloating, abdominal discomfort, cramping, or a feeling that they have not completely emptied their bowels.

Bowel habits can vary from person to person. A change from your normal bowel movement pattern is an important sign to watch for.

Constipation and cancer treatment

There are several factors that can contribute to constipation during cancer treatment. One of the most common causes is medication.

Pain medications and other medications. Many types of pain medication can slow movement through the digestive tract. Certain anti-nausea medications may have a similar effect. Some chemotherapy treatments can also affect how the digestive system functions.

Changes in routine. When you have cancer, you may not be following your normal routine. Fatigue, hospitalization, reduced physical activity, and changes in eating or drinking habits may all contribute to constipation.

Cancer itself. Sometimes the cancer itself can affect the digestive system. Tumors located in or near the gastrointestinal tract can interfere with normal bowel function.

Why it is important to address constipation

Severe constipation can become painful and may lead to complications such as hemorrhoids or bowel obstruction.

Constipation can also affect appetite and overall well-being. Some people experience nausea or discomfort that makes it difficult to eat and stay hydrated.

Reporting symptoms to your care team early gives them an opportunity to recommend helpful tips before the problem gets worse.

Managing constipation

The best approach depends on the underlying cause. Healthcare providers may recommend increasing fluid intake, adjusting dietary habits, or incorporating physical activity when possible.

Some patients may benefit from stool softeners, laxatives, or other medications designed to support regular bowel movements. People taking opioid pain medications may receive preventive treatments to reduce the risk of constipation before symptoms develop.

Always ask your healthcare team before starting over-the-counter medications for constipation, especially during cancer treatment.

When to contact your healthcare team

Patients should notify their healthcare team if constipation does not improve, becomes painful, or if other symptoms like vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or an inability to pass gas.

Keeping track of bowel habits can help providers understand what is happening and determine the most appropriate treatment approach. Even symptoms that feel embarrassing or insignificant are important to discuss.

Comfort during treatment

Managing side effects is an important part of cancer care. While constipation may not get the same attention as other treatment-related symptoms, addressing it can improve comfort and help patients maintain their daily routines.

Open communication with your healthcare team can help identify the cause of constipation and determine the best strategy for managing symptoms. With the right support, many people are able to find relief and continue focusing on their treatment and overall well-being.

With HealthTree Connect, you have access to educational resources that can help you better understand cancer, side effects, and new research that may improve care in the future.

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Sources: 

• Mayo Clinic-Constipation 
• Cleveland Clinic-Constipation