Diarrhea
"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you." ~ Deepak Chopra
Diarrhea is a symptom, rather than a disease and is often induced as a result of radiation or chemotherapy. Other possible causes of diarrhea include:
- anxiety or stress
- surgery on the large bowel or pelvis
- infection
- antibiotics, antacids containing magnesium, anti-nausea medication, laxatives or stool softeners
- lactose intolerance
If you suspect your chemo is causing your diarrhea, the following guidelines suggest when to call your healthcare provider:
- fever over 100F (38C) or higher
- moderate to severe abdominal cramping, pain, straining or bloating
- dizziness
- dry mouth and skin
- black stools or blood in stools
- dark (concentrated) urine
- sudden rapid or irregular heartbeat
- if dietary measures and medications do not decrease the diarrhea
Over-the-counter solutions include:
- Loperamide (Imodium®)
- Kaopectate II® caplets
- Maalox Anti-Diarrheal® caplets
- Pepto Diarrhea Control®
Things your can do to minimize the effects of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea:
- SIP, SIP, SIP to avoid stressing your system - drink plenty of clear fluids - 2-3 litres per day - broths, decaf teas - chamomile and ginger - or diluted juices including peach, pear, papaya, mango. AVOID grape and prune
- follow the B.R.A.T. diet - Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast
- add high-soluble fiber including oatmeal, cream of wheat and plain unsweetened graham crackers
- Ayurvedic remedies include eating organic yoghurt, kefir and buttermilk to rebalance your intestinal flora
- they also suggest making tea with a handful of fresh or a 2 tbsps of dry peppermint leaves or ½ tsp dry ginger in a glass of buttermilk
- avoid raw vegetables and fruit
- avoid strong spices
- avoid whole grains, cereals, nuts and popcorn
- avoid beans, cabbages and carbonated beverages
- avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages
"Wherever you go, go with all your heart." ~ Confucius
