Constipation
Constipation means having difficulty opening your bowels. It is a common problem for people with cancer. It can be a side effect of cancer treatment or the cancer itself.
Find out more about the causes, symptoms, how it is assessed and treatment of constipation.
Causes of constipation
You might be constipated when you have cancer. There are several possible causes.
Symptoms of constipation
Constipation means difficulty having a poo. It can be a problem for people with cancer and during cancer treatment. Find out what symptoms to look out for.
Assessing constipation
Before you have treatment for constipation, your doctor or nurse will need to find out how bad it is and what the cause could be. Find out what they might do.
Diet, fluid and physical activity
You might be able to manage constipation through diet, drinking plenty and being physically active. Find out more about how these can help.
Laxatives
Laxatives can help you empty your bowels if you're constipated. If you have cancer, you should speak to your healthcare team before taking any type of laxative.
