Constipation

Having infrequent or difficult-to-pass bowel movements (also called faeces, stools or poo) is known as constipation. Common causes include not getting enough exercise, eating too little fibre, or not drinking enough fluids. Opioid pain medicines, some anti-nausea drugs and some chemotherapy drugs may also cause constipation.

Severe constipation with abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and vomiting may be signs of a blockage in the bowel (bowel obstruction). This occasionally happens with peritoneal mesothelioma, but rarely with pleural mesothelioma. To relieve the symptoms, you may have a small tube (stent) put in to help keep the bowel open. If the bowel is completely blocked, it needs to be cleared with emergency surgery.

Managing constipation

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat fresh fruit and vegetables and fibre-rich foods (e.g. prunes, apples with skin on), unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Try to be physically active every day. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist to find the exercise that is right for you.
• Ask your doctor how to manage constipation. You may be prescribed medicines to help stimulate bowel movements.
• Try over-the-counter laxatives such as Coloxyl with senna, Duphalac or Movicol. Check the dose with the pharmacist and let your doctor know. Don’t wait too long before starting laxatives.
• Talk to your treatment team about how to manage bowel obstruction. If your stomach is swollen and you are in pain, call Triple Zero (000) as it may be an emergency.

→ READ MORE: Managing poor appetite and weight loss

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