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Constipation Management
Constipation is defined as a decrease in frequency of defecation accompanied by
difficulty & discomfort or the passage of dry hard stool that occurs when materials
move too slowly through the large intestine. Some causes of constipation include poor
fluid intake, decreased activity, or pain medications which are given as part of overall cancer care.
Self Care Measures include but are not limited to:
Increase fiber intake ie: wheat bran, beans, broccoli, sweet potatoes, carrots and dried apricots
Increase fluid intake to 8 or more glasses per day
Establish a routine with toilet activities
Increase exercise as tolerated (this aids the gut in mobility)
Avoid cheese products and refined grain products
Use an Anti-Constipation Fruit Paste such as: 3 cups of prune juice 3 cups of
applesauce 2 cup bran Mix ingredients together and keep in refrigerator. Take 3060 cc daily.
Other options would include "over the counter" medications such as: Citrucel,
Metamucil, Senekot, Biscodyl and Casara.
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