Treatment for cancer-related diarrhea depends on what's causing your diarrhea.
The stomach cramps. The frequent trips to the bathroom. Diarrhea is a common side effect in some people receiving treatment for cancer. Diarrhea may also be caused by the cancer itself. But diarrhea can be more than an inconvenience for people with cancer — it can be a sign of something much more serious.
When should you call your doctor?
Diarrhea typically causes stomach cramps and loose, watery stools. Mostly it's an inconvenience. But if your symptoms persist or get worse, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as a bowel obstruction. Diarrhea can also lead to other problems, such as severe dehydration.
Some signs and symptoms are more serious than others are. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
- Six or more loose bowel movements a day for more than two days
- Blood in your stool
- Inability to urinate for 12 hours or more
- Inability to drink any liquids for more than two days
- Weight loss due to diarrhea
- Diarrhea after several days of constipation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing
- Passing out
- Inability to take in more liquids than you pass in stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Overwhelming fatigue
If your diarrhea doesn't seem severe but starts to interfere with your daily activities, such as if you're concerned about leaving home or going somewhere without a bathroom nearby, talk to your doctor. If abdominal cramping is keeping you from your daily activities, discuss this with your doctor, as well.
What if dietary changes don't work?
If changes to your diet aren't reducing your discomfort from diarrhea, your doctor might prescribe medications to offer you relief. Common medications for cancer-related diarrhea include:
- Opioids. You might be familiar with opioids for pain treatment, but these drugs can also reduce your diarrhea by slowing movement through your intestines. Loperamide (Imodium A-D) causes fewer side effects than other opioids do, making it a common treatment choice.
- Anti-secretory agents. These drugs reduce the amount of fluid your body secretes, making your stools firmer. Examples of anti-secretory agents include aspirin, bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), corticosteroids and octreotide (Sandostatin).
- Fiber. Adding fiber supplements may help ease some types of diarrhea. Discuss your options with your doctor before using fiber supplements.
Other medications are available, but what type you'll take will depend on the severity of your diarrhea and what's causing it.
Last Updated: 03/01/2008
