Diarrhea
Diarrhea is when your bowel movements become more frequent and are watery, softer, or looser than normal.
To minimize the possibility of diarrhea, do the following:
- Avoid spicy, greasy, or fried foods.
- Avoid eating a lot of raw vegetables or fruits.
- Avoid high-fiber foods, such as whole wheat breads, granola, and bran.
- Avoid gas-forming foods, such as cabbage and broccoli.
- Avoid lactose-containing products, such as milk and dairy products.
- Avoid beverages with caffeine and alcohol.
To help you feel better, do the following:
- Drink plenty of clear fluids, at least 8–10 glasses per day. Examples include water, sports drinks, broth, weak decaffeinated teas, decaffeinated soft drinks, clear juices, and gelatin.
- Eat bland foods, such as bananas, applesauce, rice, noodles, white bread, toast, and chicken (without the skin).
You may take over-the-counter
You may take over-the-counter medication for your diarrhea, as instructed by your healthcare provider, including the following:
Loperamide; take 4 mg (2 tablets) for 1 dose, then take 1 tablet by mouth every 4 hours OR 1 tablet by mouth after each loose stool. Do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours.
Call your care team if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- You have 4 more than your normal number of bowel movements in 1 day.
- You have diarrhea or cramps for more than 1 day.
- Your rectal area is sore or bleeding.
- You feel dizzy.
- You have a fever of 100.4°F or higher.
Managing Diarrhea During Cancer Treatment
Diarrhea, characterized by frequent watery bowel movements, can be managed by adjusting your diet. It’s crucial to steer clear of spicy, greasy, high-fiber foods, as well as gas-forming and lactose-containing products. Additionally, avoiding caffeine and alcohol is beneficial. To alleviate symptoms, it’s important to hydrate with clear fluids and consume bland foods such as bananas and rice.
Over-the-counter medications like loperamide can be taken as directed by your healthcare provider. It’s important to reach out to your care team if you experience increased bowel movements, persistent diarrhea or cramps, rectal soreness or bleeding, dizziness, or a fever above 100.4°F. For personalized guidance and support, consider consulting North Houston Cancer Clinics to effectively manage diarrhea and maintain your well-being.
