Information and Resources from the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center                 Bookmark and Share



Survivors' Day, 2012
Visit the Survivors' Day website to learn more or register for this event.
Keeping Up Appearances
Get our list of resources to help you cope with appearance issues.
A Guide to Home Care Services
Browse our recommendations on how to find a home care provider or agency; and how to finance it.

mCancerTalk
Subscribe to our new blog for regular news and updates from the U-M Cancer Center.
Find a Clinical Trial:
This page provides links to clinical trials by cancer type.
Pharmacist's Corner
by Emilly Mackler, Pharm.D., Symptom Management and Supportive Care Program

Managing Constipation During Cancer Treatment

This issue of Thrive discusses the many options available for managing nausea. Constipation is one symptom that can often lead to nausea and is very common in our Cancer Center patients. Some causes of constipation are the medications used to treat cancer (such as vincristine and thalidomide), pain medications, some medications used to treat depression or to help with sleep, not drinking enough water or other fluids, inability to exercise, or tumor involvement.

If you are experiencing symptoms of constipation, it's important to let your health care provider know. Here are some possible treatments for constipation:

  • Increasing fluid intake by drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid daily
  • Exercising regularly, when possible.
  • Increasing the amount of dietary fiber (consult with our registered dietitians for additional information)
  • Taking medications prescribed by your health provider.

The Cancer Center Symptom Management and Supportive Care Clinic works with patients along with their oncologists to help manage the side effects of cancer treatments. To make an appointment, call 877-907-0859.

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