“Is constipation normal with chemotherapy?”

Hello. You are asking an important question. Many times there are symptoms (side effects) that occur with chemotherapy. Some drugs are known to slow down the bowels and cause constipation. However there are other reasons that constipation may occur and it is important to discuss this symptom with her prescribing oncologist. It is important that she eats well during the chemotherapy regimen. It may be necessary for her to take stool softeners and laxatives to keep the bowels moving regularly. Sometimes suppositories and/or enemas need to be employed to encourage bowel movements. Her oncologist can prescribe regimens that are effective.

I would recommend checking with the constipation solutions in the local drug store and starting with one that might be effective.

Common four factors: antiemetic, dehydration, change in diet, narcotics.

Generally, constipation is one of the outcomes of being treated with Chemotherapy because it affects the patient's appetite and activity. Usually, the best way to overcome this complication is to have the patient drink water or something that is hydrating and exercise. Even though
patients are somewhat groggy after chemotherapy they need to be encouraged to drink liquids and to walk. Immediately after Chemotherapy and on a daily basis. If nausea is part of the problem it can be overcome with liquids and Antinausea Medication. But, Old Folks bowels respond to fluid and exercise. Also, we are finding more and more often that a patient who exercises and maintains that exercise does better than those who lie in bed.

Yes. Many chemo drugs have the side effect of constipation or the opposite diarrhea.