Diarrhea

A Side Effect of Cancer Treatment

Diarrhea is passing loose or watery stools 3 or more times a day -- with or without discomfort. It's caused when the water in the intestine is not being absorbed back into the body.

Sometimes diarrhea is a side effect of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy; radiation therapy to the abdomen; other medicines; surgery; and/or supplemental feedings that contain large amounts of vitamins, minerals, sugar, and electrolytes; and tumor growth. Diarrhea caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy may last for up to 3 weeks after treatment ends/

What you can do about diarrhea

Drink plenty of mild, clear liquids throughout the day. Liquids at room temperature are better tolerated.
Eat small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.
Avoid greasy, fried, spicy, or very sweet foods.
Limit milk and milk products to no more than 2 cups a day.
Avoid drinks and foods that cause gas, such as carbonated drinks, gas-forming vegetables, and chewing gum. (You may drink carbonated beverages if you leave them open for at least 10 minutes before drinking.)
Drink and eat high-sodium foods, such as broths, sports drinks, crackers, and pretzels.
Drink and eat high-potassium foods, such as fruit juices and nectars, sports drinks, potatoes without the skin, and bananas.
Eat foods high in pectin, such as applesauce and bananas.
Call your doctor if diarrhea continues or your stools have an unusual odor or color.
Drink at least 1 cup of liquid after each loose bowel movement.
Limit use of sugar-free gums and candies made with sorbitol.