What should I do if I experience abdominal bloating and diarrhea after chemotherapy?
Disease description:
Because I have a tumor myself, after chemotherapy I feel bloated and also have diarrhea. May I ask what could be the reason for this?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Abdominal distention and diarrhea after chemotherapy are usually side effects caused by chemotherapeutic agents on the digestive system. The following suggestions may help patients alleviate these symptoms:
1. Dietary adjustment: Avoid high-fat, spicy, raw, cold, or hard-to-digest foods. Increase intake of dietary fiber, such as cooked vegetables and fruits, which may help improve the intestinal environment.
2. Maintain hydration: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration; therefore, it is important to drink plenty of water or electrolyte beverages to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
3. Eat small, frequent meals: Consuming smaller portions more frequently can reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.
4. Medication: For diarrhea, antidiarrheal medications such as smectite powder or compound berberine tablets may be used, but prolonged use should be avoided to prevent constipation. For abdominal distention, intestinal microflora regulators such as probiotics or prebiotic products may be considered to restore the normal balance of intestinal flora.
5. Other treatment options: These can be performed by qualified TCM practitioners and involve stimulating specific acupoints to promote circulation of Qi and blood and strengthen the body's defenses to expel pathogens, which may help alleviate adverse reactions after chemotherapy. Moxibustion therapy may also have a positive effect on relieving diarrhea symptoms.
