CONSTIPATION--problem with so many of our drugs
This thread will talk about constipation. The nemesis of cancer patients. If you post helpful information make sure to identify that all recommendations should be cleared with your doctor. Preferably, your Gastroenterologist (GI doc) or Primary Care Physcisin PCP). Cancer docs, I would say that this isn't there strong suit.
Page 44 . Description of Squatty Potty https://www.squattypotty.com/unicorn-c/
Description of normal defecation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7pf0uFRfTQ
Page 10 description of Laxatives, emollients, stool softners, and usage dangers: https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/6/topics/781867?page=10
Page 12 has a Question list & treatment plan to discuss with doc. Used several times as reference, I decided page 12 had so much info on it, I'd link it here.
https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/6/topics/781867?page=12
NIH National Cancer Institute : Gastrointestinal Complications–for health professionals (PDQ®)
http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/constipation/GI-complications-hp-pdq
Link to rectal Issues thread: http://community.breastcancer.org/topic_post?foru...
Link to main BCO board thread: http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/side_effects... http://www.breastcancer.org/tips/nutrition/during_...
Amusing 
Five Constipated Men
Puns are welcome, not often we get such a situation that is more worthy.
Comments
-
I've had hemorrhoids ever since my breast cancer surgery in the summer of 2010. I am now scheduled for a colonoscopy this spring. I'm wondering if there is any danger of bleeding while I'm doing the prep for the colonoscopy. Should I ask the doctor to do a rectal exam before the prep, just to be sure there is no irritation that could start bleeding during the prep?
0 -
I was never constipated on Femara, but ever since I started Faslodex + Xgeva, I am fighting a daily battle just to keep moving at all.
Time to soak some prunes, I guess...
0 -
booboo2,
The colonoscopy was never a problem for my hemmoroids.I asked the doctor to have a look at them when he was doing his colonoscopy but he forgot and never gave them much thought. When i was leaving I asked him what he thought and he replied, no big deal.
I had my gyn/ob appointment shortly afterwards, and I knew she would have something to say as they see plenty of hemmoroids due to pressure from pregnancy. When she looked she said, it was a herniated rectum and gave me a script to see a surgeon specialised in that field. He confirmed it: herniated rectum. Which means my colonscopy guy just did his thing without thinking about what the entrance looked like. LOL
PS, it wouldn't hurt to ask him to have a look and give you his advice.
0 -
Your doctor sounds a bit insensitive, painterly. I'd be very annoyed if a doctor told me a problem that's making me miserable is no big deal. I'm not too uncomfortable at the moment, but for several months I was waddling down the street like a duck, it was so painful to walk. I felt as though something was sticking out of my rear end. My family doctor didn't take the problem as seriously as he should have, I think, but I would be surprised if a specialist didn't look at something that is causing severe discomfort. I'll see if I can get the specialist to give me an office appointment a few weeks before the colonoscopy for a rectal examination. He may find something that should be treated before the colonoscopy.
I still don't understand how breast surgery could have given me hemorrhoids, and it's possible that it's just a coincidence. I don't remember having a problem with constipation, but I did have a lot of heartburn for a few days after the surgery. Something must have irritated my digestive tract at that time, and that may have caused the hemorrhoids.
0 -
General anesthesia gives me heartburn and constipation. Not all that unusual. They should be telling you that.
0 -
Nobody said anything to me about the side effects of anesthesia, though I was given a Zantac about 45 minutes before my surgery, so the doctor must have realized that it could cause heartburn. Another patient in my room, who had similar surgery, had a problem after the anesthesia with nausea and vomiting, which I fortunately did not have.
0 -
I also have terrible nausea but not vomiting. The last time both I and my PS warned the anaesthesiologist. He didn't give me any gas and a different concoction. No nausea but of course a little cconstipation for a few days and heartburn for a month. I think because I have IBS it messes my system up because usually they say the heartburn is only for a few days.
Most let you know about the constipation though. They want to be sure you "go" within a few days of surgery or they start prescribing the colase.
0 -
Pianterly, That was a big miss on the Gi doc 's part---he had two chances to see them, going in, coming out. Really good Gi docs can do a special maneuver that flips the end of the colonoscope so they can take a look at the rectal vault area very carefully. It's all in the wrist action. Not all of them can do it. So, it makes me wonder what else he missed. I'd call my insurance case manager and express my concerns. See if you can't get approval for another complete exam, trust me big miss. Talk with your Gyn doc also and get her opinion. May be she or the surgeon can help with getting a new exam. Have them use these words"I tusted that he would give a complete and thourgh exam , This doc missed it in the preprocedure exam, the entry on the day of the exam, the exit on the day of the exam, If I show up with colon cancer between now and my next exam , how can I be sure that this could have been avoided if he had not been negligent. Everyone is now aware that he is negligent, whom is going to accept financial responsibility for this?" You already have the back up of the gyn doc b/c she referred you to a surgeon. The GI doc was cavilier. Your gyn doc didn't refer you to a surgeon for the fun of it. Get copies of records, Especialy GI doc, office note, And procedure note. Don't tell him why.
The obvious, get a completely new GI doc.
Herniated rectums are very hard to miss.The look allot like a rosebud coming out your arse. From a small BUD to full bloom(tell this to your gyn doc and see what her reaction is .Had the Gi doc been paying attention ,I have know Idea how he good have missed it, They usually make the scope anywheres from a bit more difficult to introduce to very difficult.
Too true about using the old ways.
0 -
TO ALL a general rule pre-op , intraoperatively and post -op: Generally docs will have you do a clean out the day before, even starting with a low fiber diet 2-3 days pre-op, Cleanout by several methods they have their own routines. Anesthesia may give you something preop or at the beginning of anethesia(your in twilight already or asleep) to prevent nausea and vomiting post op. Almost a 100 % of the time narcotics are used for anesthesia, along with an amnesic drug(usually midazolam or diprivan). The use of the narcotic is self explanatory-reduces post op pain, but can cause trouble going post-op even to the point of causing the GI tract to go to sleep. This is called an Ileus.(refer to post on Entereg page one). Then most people will get narcotics post -op(BLESS you LAGO , better girl than me sweetie).
Then post op a routine with a stool softner is started day one if your allowed . Sometimes not allowed due to the nature of the surgery.
BUT not all drugs work for all people--so, if you wake up with too much pain that generally means the doc didn't use enough narcotic during surgery. That can be addressed imediately in the recovery room ------you just have to let them know., sometimes vociferously.
Nausea and vomiting ( abbreviated N/V) can also be corrected by use of a different agent post op in recovery.Some older agents like the "gases" while good agents , do tend to have more s.e's For those that are OLD enough to remember the WORST was ETHER-----No longer even allowed in hospitals.
If you have a bad anesthesia experience. Get a copy of anesthesia record from med records at the facility you had the surgery. For next surgery, you can either chat with the same Anes. doc or ask for a different anesthesiologist( they tend to be stuck on a certain routine and sometimes can be inflexible as to what they use), You can ask for a pre-anesthesia interview, but not always available. Have the doc review the record and explain what your problem was i.e prolonged nausea, Nausea& vomiting(N/V). The reason to have the anesthesia record is, the doc looking at the record can identify right away what AGENT should be switched. It's truly a help for them.
Anesthesia drugs are given in what I call, a smorgadboard way-------A little of this , a little of that, some of this, some of that. This avoids using too much of any one drug. The greater amount of one drug --the greater the side effect's.
Again Lago your approach, got you a different drug approach YEAH, your so smart!
0 -
Hate to rain on the prunes parade, because I have osteo and wanted to guzzle them as my miracle cure. However, there is some speculation they are contraindicated in those with cancer: http://www.denvernaturopathic.com/prunesIGFcancer.htm There are also studies showing they can help prevent cancer, too. Kinda like red wine, what's a girl to do, for or against.
What works for me, I've posted here and there on this topic before: 750 mg of magnesium/day, probiotics at 2x the recommended dose, significant water, not eating a lot of sweets, beets, chia seeds, chloraphyll and avoiding bananas. One banana is an overnight problem for me! Tried and failed: Triphala, Heather's Tummy Fibers, and lots of fiber supplements.
0 -
Wait, do you mean you DO eat beets, chia seeds and chlorophyll... or you avoid them?
0 -
ps. I told my onc today that Faslodex has officially backed me up, and she said for me to put a spoon of Miralax in my coffee every other day.
I cannot imagine what this Miralax stuff must taste like.
0 -
Lulubee, that was one lousy post of mine! Eating beets, chia seeds, and chloraphyll helps. Not eating sweets and bananas help. Bananas are the worst! That BRAT diet does constipation victims no good!
Oh, yes, Miralax is great stuff. I use that a lot when I'm traveling, start a few days before and keep it up the whole trip. A lot better than waiting for other things to work.
0 -
number one help for me is drinking lots and lots of water. When I get up in the morning the first thing I do is drink a big glass of water. Then I get on my treadmill and walk for at least a half mile. By the time I'm done walkiing, usually I'm ready to go.
Also, I eat LOTS of fruits and vegies, no grains, no dairy, and small amounts of meat. (Nothing constipates me as bad as a steak.. except possibly cheese.) I am not fond of prunes and have found that most dried fruits don't work that well for me unless I also increase my water consumption proportionately.
I've used Senna tea in extreme situations, but am very careful to sip really small amounts during the day, as otherwise the cramps are too much for me.
0 -
Lulu, found my way here too ! To me Miralax doesn't have a taste. Never tried it in coffee.
Had my last treatment on the 23rd of Jan. Came home, took Miralax and 2 stool softeners "with stimulant" - next day same thing, next day Miralax and 3 stool softeners; next day Miralax and 4 stool softeners/w stimulant. Finally - 5 days and I could go potty. There has to be a better way. Maybe the Gerber organic prunes????
I just don't think it is healthy for our intestines with the kind of meds we are having to take to not be able to go.
0 -
Hey Nan... I am thinking the same thing. In a case like you're describing (especially with a gut full of 5-day-old Faslodex!), I would definitely go for some glycerin suppositories. They really do spur the bowel muscles into action, and besides that their lubricating effect really makes the eventual event much more comfortable.
0 -
Thanks Sas, I will check into it.
0 -
I usually buy my Smooth Moves senna tea in a regular supermarket. They offer a regular flavor as well as chocolate (never tried it). I was in Whole Foods last night and they had it in peppermint and chamomile. Had the chamomile before bed. Slept like a baby and had "success" this morning.
Caryn0 -
Help for constipation..........a friend is a colonoscopy nurse told me to buy "Nutri Slim" tea which comes in a bright green box in the tea section of grocery stores. It really works without diarrhea. I strongly recommend it as nothing else helped me. I use 2 bags for 1 serving.
0 -
To all -we are doing GREAT----each one of you have offered a suggestion that worked for you. THAT IS HUGE. Anyone coming to this site may go through so many of the suggestions and they don't work----THEN they come to your suggestion and it works. YEAH. So, anyone who thinks they have heard it all and tried all, don't give up. TOO many of us have been through it not to have an idea that works Yeah for Moving things Forward and OUT !!!!!!!!!!!0
-
In the morning, I have been making steel cut oats with chia powder added at the end of cooking. It seems to have helped me. I will have to try that Nutri Slim tea, thanks for sharing. Senna sounds too harsh for me, I am afraid of the cramps you guys mentioned
0 -
3 stool softeners (Colace) & 2 Sennakot each night. In the morning drink a dosage of Miralax. Relief at last. I was having horrible constipation on Halaven. My Onc gave me this routine. Best wishes!
0 -
Stage 1,
Nutri Slim tea's main ingredient is senna, Cassia Angustifolia. This is often the main ingredient in most dieter's or super slim teas. Don't know if any brands don't have it but check the label's if you're sensitive to it.
Caryn
0 -
Thanks for the info,exbrngrl
, teas are so confusing for me. Some are good and some are not so good for estrogen + BC, too. And I am kinda afraid of the senna...maybe I should try a little at a time, but don't want those cramps
0 -
You can try steeping it for half the suggested time or drink only half a cup. I think Smooth Moves is very gentle. I once tried one of the slimming/diet teas and it was harsh on my system.
Caryn0 -
Good suggestion. I will look for it in the store tomorrow. Thanks, Caryn
0 -
OK...I would appreciate some opinions here. I NEVER have constipation issues unless drugs/anaesthesia is involved. BUT for about 2 weeks, things seem a little slow. I am vegetarian and drink green juice with loads of kale, spinach, celery etc daily. Nothing new is in my diet and I am over a year out from chemo etc. So why am I having these issues all of a sudden? I got a box of senna tea today and drank a cup a few hours ago. How long will that take to kick in? I used to hear about people griping and I would think...OH geez, just drink green juice and get some more fiber...but NOPE!! Must be a little more to it. I of course am a little panicky that something more might be at play : (
0 -
geewhiz how old are you? Did chemo put you in chemo-pause? Are you middle aged. Constipation and digestive issues are not unusual to start up in your 40's. My IBS started at 45. I found I have trigger foods. In my case it's high fat animal products like red meat, cheese or chicken skin. For you it might be something else.
0 -
Yep!! Middleaged and darn happy to be so
I am almost 46 and yes, hit chemopause on my first tx, November 2009. I honestly haven't changed anything in my diet, or exercise routine. Maybe there is a trigger I am not thinking about...
0 -
The green drink is very good, but the fiber is left in the juicer, so along with my green drink, eat whole fruit and veggies too. I think cabbage or turnip in your juice will work. I did that a long time ago and it really went through me fast. Try the chia powder in steel cut oats. I am looking for a happy medium, I am trying differnt ways, I still need to go about life without having sudden problems I will try the senna tea. 0
-
Thanks, Stage1. I do have what's called a "masticating" juicer...so I get lots of pulp in the glass. I will try turnips...I use lots of red and green cabbage, bok choy etc already. I eat steel cut oats for breakfast daily, so will try some chia in them tomorrow
0 -
Popcorn does the trick for me - with lots of real butter, and sometimes tabasco sauce.
0 -
Gewizz-------try everyones >>>>>solver------you mave find a keeper--------- I did
0 -
Gewizz-add in some flax seed to your green juice. Works for me.
0 -
Sas. I love this thread! Here's something that works for me. I was bitching to my mom about constipation and she told me that when I was a baby, she put dark Karo syrup in my bottle and it worked every time. So, I purchased some at the grocery store and sweetened my coffee with two teaspoons of it. VIOLA! I'm also taking more fish oil. Thanks for all the great info. MOVING ON, LADIES!
0 -
It's such a good place to get those little puns in Like"moving on" and "solver"
I have been made a believer in Miralax. At the store just now forgot the prunes
Ro, Uou won't believe what the fish oil or flaxseed oils will do for your hair and skin too, wish all drugs had that kind of side effect LOL.
Geewhiz-------sudden unexplained changes in bowel movements can be a reason to get a colonoscopy. This isn't meant to panic you. Rules for women are 50 years old for first scope unless there is a "medically necessary reason". BC is not considered under that category. So, get yourself to a GI doc asap to get the change documented. That allows then for the test. Having the test is a great mind reliever. I, personnally, believe it should be done for all BC women. So look at this change as a positive.. It's not a time to keep the stiff upper lip. SHOW them how worried you are and how this is such a DRAMAtic change for you. DUH was that clear.
0 -
Been off my calcium supplements for 2 weeks....getting more cal in foods. Also taking metamucil on a regular basis. It has not helped at all. Starting today I will leave off my Vita C supplements. I bought a bag of oranges so I will see what happens.
0 -
Hi Linda54,
I'm a daily Miralax user also :P Tamoxifen really has done a number on me! I put it in my morning coffee every day and it's working, thank God!
Vikki
0 -
To all the ladies that added suggestions......I thank you.
Donna
0 -
Linda don't leave off your Vita C unless you are getting it from another source.
Lets make a plan for you and see if it works---------you can modify it however. Take your metamucil as usual
1Wake at the same time everyday
2. drink 2-3 glass warm water with lemon or mix your miralax in your coffee as someone suggested, but still drink 2-3 glasses of water
3walk, but only so many houses in each direction and so many in the other direction-.3-4. Close enough that you can get back to the house in quick time. Make sure the door doesn't lock behind you LOL. or you have friendly neighbors or private bushes LOL
4Salad or broccoli--------greens at least once a day-------MY personal hardest thing to do
5General mills fiber one-------try a half cup in the morning with all the water stuff, Sprinkle acidophilus powder on the cereal. Might even try a 1/4 to a 1/3 of cereal cup with each meal.
try for 7 days. The reason is you are training your bowel to go at a certain time. That's what it's called BOWEL TRAINING.--------Problem with that even on your days off you have to do it.--sorry.
0 -
I have been seriously watching my water intake ever since we started this thread-------I have found that I am under drinking the table ---opps wrong story. Underdrinking by at least half of what I should be. Then I upped it , but not by enough to see the change yet Had MRI today so washing it out---------realized ________I do not drink enough fluids even though I preach it.
Reminds me of My Dear Mary(relative). "Oh yes , I drink water all day long" I said we would measure it. I had her pick the glass she used all Day long to drink her water. She did ,turned out it was a 4 oz glass that she would fill in the morning. Leave on the counter and when she'd go by she would take a sip. She had morning tea/coffee and early mid afternoon supper with tea/coffee. Neither cup did she finish. We did this for a couple of days, without me making a comment , just observing.
She was getting approximately, 4+ 4+4---------16oz's a day-----she had Chf,but should have been getting at least the usual 8 -8 oz a day unless restricted by her doc.It all changed after that. Lots of details -----not pertinent to now Even with CHF --if the body doesn't have enough fluids , the heart and vascular system are going to compensate by working harder.
Sugesstion to all Tabulate what you are drinking to get a real clue on hydration.
0 -
Okay this is going to sound very different, But when I was taking spoonfuls of acidophilus to counter resistant thrush. I had stool that were 12-15 inches long----------That's it no other description--------other than I wasn't constipated and these were formed stools not diarrhea
0 -
sas-schatzi that is a poop made in heaven....the poop of my dreams!!!....lol
I do wake up the same time just about everyday...except Mon & Wed...get up at 4:30 for Spin class at 5:30a.....cannot change that because I work and cannot go later
I mix the metamucil with 8oz warm water....have a cup of coffee....start my exercise (have a treadmill at home) and have plenty of water to drink...pretty much room temp water. So that is another 3 cups of water. A cup of warm green tea with breakfast.
I eat FiberOne cereal and also Oatmeal usually mix homemade yogurt with my FiberOne so that takes care of the acidophilus.....as far as the greens..that is the problem....summer I eat lots but in the winter I do not. Got to incorporate that into my routine...
I usually don't buy oranges but I did get a bag because of leaving off the C......
thanks for your advice....I think I am doing most of it.
Before my BC diagnosis I went every morning....I would have a cup of java with a banana...look at the morning paper then it would hit like clockwork......after my first surgery things have never been the same.
0 -
Linda , I agree after the 4 surgeries plus 1 almost killer cheno----------nothing has been moving right since. The things I suggested to you have to be almost OCD things normal.The tortuous part is the routine of getting up at the same time of the morning -------------horrible even on off day
If your out, use the seat things, there has been a great rise in contact dermatitis----------just do it.---------no matter how clean it looks.
Linda they gave you antibiotics pre-op and post-op-------------messes up good bacteri in the small intestine and large intestine.That's why you just can't go to the local grocery. Go to a health food store that has a solid reputation, Know what your buying and use it daily. I would suggeston the higher end stores versus of the local grocery and add either fish oil/ or flax oil
BARLEANS FOR THE FISH OIL AND BLUEBP0NNETT FOR THE FLAX OIL/............ THOSE THAT WANT TO DO THERE OWN RESEARCH ENCOURAGE you to do so.
Big question on the fish oil is does the company guarantee that contaminents are removed? Flax question is it organic?
0 -
Linda ___- 'poop made in heaven '------glad it made you laugh . The things we write about.
0 -
okay poop-de-doo have we run out of suggestions or puns?
0 -
Improved stewed prunes:
1cup prunes
Scant 1/4 cup water
Zest from 1 Meyer lemon
Juice from 1/2-1 Meyer lemon, depending on taste
Stew as usual. Enjoy warm or room temp.
Caryn0 -
Caryn, a real pooper of a recipe---------sounds like it should keep things moving Thanks sheila
0 -
I am sorry to hear about your troubles,I never had any either til the effin bc. Then nothing was moving for a week even the home health nurse was concerned. I had my surg on Mon. I was taking EX Lax every day and nothing so I went native. What people in other countries where constip is seldom heard of....they squat. We obviously cant do that since we are not the bear in the woods. So I get my little footstool out stuff myself with calf select dried pitted prunes,steel cut oatmeal,lots of fresh homemade guac,dill and cilantro and organic baby carrots and the Colace stool softener and wait for nature to come a callin. And come a callin she did. felt much better but then had to get the yellow goopy hemmor ointment and the Tucks. Things were going so good,I had to eat a little rice to slow down the train. If all that doesnt work...you should seek professional help from a medical doctor. Oh well.its a wk later and I be all normal now ya'll. I really dont speak Southern but I think it means that the plan was a success.
0 -
A lot of people have IBS-C and don't realize it. I've struggled with it my whole life, it's not an age-related thing.
That said, I hate drinking water, so I'm going to be better. I swear.
0 -
What about the hemorrhoids that come with the bouts of constipation? I've had painful internal and external hemorrhoids for over a month now. I've been able to get on top of the constipation with a high fiber diet (for now, treatment 4 is today so fully expect another bout of constipation in a couple of days) but NOTHING seems to help the hemorrhoids! I've tried Prep H sup and ointment, Annu-cort RX, Tucks pads, sits bath, and acupuncture. What else is out there that might shrink and heal these devils? I will go see my GI doc but I don't want to do anything that would delay chemo treatments. I want to get this over with!
0 -
NC beach gal----------liquid----measure what you are drinking--------in a previous post , I --even the advocator of 8-12 oz----total 64 0z to 96 oz a day was not doing what I preached once, I started to measure based on what I recommended. Do the same. Start the day with 2-4 glasses of water as described before. Constipation occurs b/c of many things ---------The biggest cause is lack of liquids. we think we drink enough. Nada--------
Have on hand will going through chemo several fleets enemas amd otc glucerin suppositories,
BUT YOUR BEST FRIEND will be drinkining enough water.
0 -
NC beach gal--------I should have added you need to see a GI doc for evaluation. Please read all the reasons to see a doc that I have previously written. Need to add a doc's eval will also consider that your rhoids are just what you think they are. They will also make sure they are not tumors. Please make sure you follow up on this. You do not want surprises , you already have been through enough.
0 -
Thanks sas- I have an appointment with my GI doc Thursday. I'm not expecting a huge revelation or immediate cure but perhaps peace of mind that these are only hemorrhoids and they WILL eventually go away. I can't believe I've followed every known treatment with only minimal relief and zero healing of the damaged tissue. I thought once the constipation was under control, the healing could begin. Not so far! Maybe my GI doc will at least give me hope.
0 -
Also, eat a lot of fruit. Water is VERY important - most important, IMO, though.
0 -
I made special chemo cookies to combat this problem. I took dried fruit (anything will do, raisins, figs, dates ...) and put them in the food processor, made them into a paste with olive oil, orange juice, orange zest, a couple of eggs, then some nuts and whole wheat flour and some extra bran for good measure. I would make the dough stiff enough to make into a log, then slice and bake.
0 -
Thanks Momine, I will try your recipe 0
-
momine - those sound great. I'm going to try them.
0 -
Constipation has been a problem for me since my early 20's and with bc treatment and drugs, it's become the biggest nightmare for me! I've tried everything from a-to-z and I've never had anything work for more than 1 day, except for now! I bought the organic chia seeds at Costco last week and it's been absolutely, life-changing amazing!!! I add a scoop-full with my protein breakfast shake in the morning and It's changed everything (excuse me if I'm being too candid here), but the size, shape and frequency makes me feel that I'm regular again for the first time in years....and the scales have been dropping the pounds too! I definitely have a "new best friend"! 0
-
collie-flower... love the name!!.....I am like you, maybe one day it will be normal then the very next day it will be hard again. I wonder what could be causing that change so quickly???? I have been thinking of getting some chia seeds for health purposes so now I will definately get some to try for my "problem".....We do not have a Costco close by...I wonder if Sams carries them?.....thanks for the info....I pray chia works as well for me.0
-
Balneol was suggested to me from a very kind person. If any one is experiencing pain with BMs, give it a try. So far it has produced temporary relief from pain. I just got it yesterday, so I can't speak to any healing properties. I found it at Walgreens. It's kind of expensive ($16.99 for 3 oz bottle) but if it works, who cares.? I found a $2.00 coupon on the manufacturers website, so that helped.
The product is easy to deal with, not messy or greasy and has a nice smell. I hope this is a solution!0 -
NCbeachgal, my DH found Baleneol for me after my first chemo (T/C). It has been a lifesaver, combined with gentle cleansing wipes, Miralax and colace. Good luck.
0 -
miralax in tea before bedtime, I drink talus tea, no caffiene at that time. Works in the morning, but I have concerns about long term use.
Good to know that Costco is carrying chia seeds, I have been buying the powder at Whole Foods, kinda expensive, but I like the powder in steel cut oats, and yes, that helped my constipation, too.
0 -
I just found (the hard way - no pun intended) that cinnamon REALLY can cause constipation - BADLY. So, if anyone is addicted to cinnamon, you may want to remove it from your diet...
0 -
w that receipe sounds yummy gonna get some of that...between my fiance's meds as a heart patient and my bc stuff we got the colace and the tucks and the cottonelle and the fiber one bars and eat enuff prunes and granola to kill a large rat. Now if I could just figure out how the PS is gonna do my fills next week when I already fill like my little alien muffin tops aka tissue expanders are gonna pop out like the monster in the movie with Capt Ridley. Is there anything we can take to relax the muscle or help the skin stretch? Dont forget the old standby an oldie but a goodie when the person comes back from the restroom and you're out in public announce "Hey did everything come out ok?" LOL....
0 -
collie-flower, I bought some organic chia seeds yesterday and last night mixed 2T with a glass of water and let it sit for about 10mins....it got thick but was easy to drink. Mine did not come with a scoop. How much does your scoop hold?....is 2Tbs enough?.....I did have a BM this morning but don't know if it was because of the chia....you think it was too soon to hope that it was?...this morning I added some to my oatmeal. Praying it works for me!!0
-
On the subject of Chia - found this today.
Chia seeds. They contain 500% more calcium than milk and have the same amount of omega-3 fatty acids as salmon. They also help stabilize blood sugar levels, as opposed to causing the spikes and falls that can occur when you eat sugars and refined carbohydrates. You can sprinkle them into recipes or into yogurt, or try one of my favorite recipes:
Chia Muffins
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds, ground (use a coffee or spice grinder)
- 11/2 cups whole wheat or whole grain flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or salt and pepper to taste
- 16-ounce can organic pumpkin (make sure there is only pumpkin listed in the ingredients list)
- 2 egg whites
- 1/4 cup high-quality canola oil
- 1/2 cup agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix all wet ingredients. Fold the wet ingredients and nuts into the dry ingredients, stirring only until dry ingredients are moistened (don’t overmix). Spoon into paper-lined or greased (with canola oil) muffin tins. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Store completely cooled muffins in resealable plastic bags in the freezer. Makes about a dozen.
0 -
Minus two, Recipe sounds good.
0 -
Layla. With your fills . If it's too tight --wait a week or even two. There is no rule that says you have to have them every week. Don't let the doc hurry you.
Collie flower- great news on chia seeds Thanks.
Linda ----the chia seeds could have that quick of an affect. Remember it all going forward. think of it as the caboose pushing the engine forward.
0 -
Another thing to avoid if you are constipated or are wondering why all of a sudden is too many eggs as they will bind you up.
There really are some vey good healthy ideas here to keep things moving and I'm going to try some, in particular the cookies. They sound absolutely delicious!
0 -
MinusTwo.... thanks for the recipe
What I have read about Chia seeds is that it is a SUPERFOOD!!!!...Don't know why everyone is not consuming Chia and why it took me so long to jump in there....
0 -
Okay, dumb question--Are these chia seeds the same as the "Chia, chia chia pets" that you grow?
0 -
weety.... yes, the same Chia seeds. I just watched a you tube video on how to make your own chia pet. Think I will make one since I have the seeds. You can use the trimmings from the chia pet in salads.....
update:....I made a Chia pet today. I cannot wait for it to grow hair. I did not have eyes to hot glue on it so I just used blue buttons for the eyes and red for the mouth.
0 -
Weety - Gee I never thought of that. Gave me a good laugh. I'm sure glad Linda was able to clarify.
0 -
I used to have a lot of (medical) constipation even before BC. I did get a great tip on another thread and it works wonders for me now. I have tea each night prior to bed and I now put one prune in the tea to soak and soften. I does not affect the taste of the tea but does get nice and soft and easy to eat. I let it go down with the last of the tea and by mid-morning the next day, voila! No constipation since. Kitty
0 -
Well, today I went to my GI doc to discuss my constipation (which has resolved somewhat with a high fiber diet) and what I thought were hemorrhoids. It seems the constipation has led to anal fissure. The treatment is a compounded ointment called Nifedipine. If you google the drug, it's for heart issues. If you google anal fissure, the drug is a common treatment when compounded into an ointment. One dose, so far, so good. So glad I went to visit my GI. My MO just took my word for it that I had hemorrhoids and said fiber, Miralax, colace, tucks, anu-cort, sitz bath, etc. My GI took a look and prescribed what he thought would relieve the pain and promote healing. God, I hope it works!
I hate anal fissures and cancer....0 -
Hi Ladies,
Too funny.....every time I take out my chia seeds...that darn song keeps playing in my head too....."chia chia chia chia pet"....it's driving me crazy! But it's been 2 whole weeks and all I can say it's been a great success! Linda....I think the scoop I have is about 1 tablespoon, how are you doing with the chia seeds? I hope you're moving right along girl!......
0 -
NC Beach gal-------nifedipine----is the first drug in the classification of slow channel calcium blockers. When this drug came out it was a major breakthrough, Then some of the subsequent drugs were pulled off the market. Never knew it was offered as an ointment. It has abtihypertensive job to tdo primarily------ never knew it had anything to do with your use of it. AMAZING.
0 -
I never understood those commercials until I started chemo and taking all of my meds, and going through instant menopause at 40. I finally bought a bottle of stool softner but then never ended up using it. I found that eating a couple of sun dried tomatoes dry out of the package, or some dates and figs (as well as a a prune once in a while) really helped. The sun dried tomatoes worked quickly and gently, but be sure to drink a big glass of fluid, any kind. Spicy foods also really did the job, although sometimes a bit too well.
Yet another surprise from our nemisis, cancer. I never thought I'd discuss constipation with strangers or anyone for that matter.
0 -
I have suffered from constipation for many years .. have serious diverticulosis .. my GI dr. put me on Miralax, once a day. The first few days after chemo constipation is a little worse. The Miralax plus eating more fiber is a big help. Miralax is expensive, but you can get a prescription for Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (generic Miralax) at less cost if you have a prescription plan. My plan is $10.00 for a 3 month supply. Worth a try!!
0 -
Bouncing betties---------yes I get the things we talk about-----NEVER------But a reality of the drugs that we take during cancer and other things cause constipation or obstipation. Either causes severe effects to the colon. The effects to the colon has many effects. Loss of certain absorption of nutrients, water. If you review the first page I thought I was going to make a Market Something b/c I knew what Entereg would do.
The colon does not like drugs. Try probiotics------powder TBL in yogurt or cottage cheese. Or By mouth if you have thrush.=============cancer drugs interfere with all normal things in our bodies---------we just have to find out how to over counter the side effects. The word I just used does not mean over the counter drugs, It means as I said --we have to not let the drugs take over counter what they cause as problems to our systems.
0 -
I doubt anyone has the particular problem that I currently have.
I am suffering from haemhorroids which is odd considering I have a stoma bag. This means that to all intents and purposes, my rear end no longer works. I have been having strong urges to 'go' which I don't understand. The first time this happened on the New Years long weekend, I kept running to the toilet but, after nothing happened on the umpteenth time, I didn't run and then proceeded to embarrass myself by messing my pants. It wasn't faeces as such but a jelly like substance which the professionals said was 'normal' for some people. Eventually, it went away and I haven't had it again until this week. I will probably have to ring my stoma nurse tomorrow if the usual cream and pushing them back inside doesn't work.
Any advice anyone, all options would be gratefully received,
Sheila.
0 -
AussieSheila: Until you get some answers from your nurse, you might use Light Day Panty Liners (or whatever generic available there). I'm 68 and well past menopause, but I still keep them around the house for those "special occasions" when I find myself at the opposite pole from this thread. And I'm not talking only about pre-colonoscopy "purges".
0 -
Aussie Sheila , you've probably had a response from your Ostomy nurse. Wouldn't hurt to be seen by your GI doc. It's a change. Could be an expected change that only those folks that are intimately involed with the anus and rectum know about. Could be simple, could be complex. When answers can't be easliy found or given---THAT'S THE TIME TO CALL THE DIRECT PROFESSIONAL FOR THAT BODY PART or disease.
Please, if you feel comfortable sharing the answer, it would be appreciated. Sheila(USA)
0 -
Sheila, I had to go for two scans on Thursday (body and bone) to clear me of progression or the surgeon will not do a reversal in case I have to have chemo. By the time I got home about 5 hrs later, I had a very uncomfortable rear end, so I applied some o.t.c. medication, hoping it would work while I lay down for a while. When I woke up it was after 4 pm and my nurse had packed up for the day and is off til Monday. I bought some cream that contains anaesthetic today and as the pushing urge seems to be waning, I am keeping my fingers crossed that the contractions down there will 'pass.' If not, I will go to my local hospital like the last time. Thanks for your concern Sheila, I appreciate having the benefit of your many years of experience.
Sheila.
How often so you get to start and end a post with the same name?
0 -
I have the opposite problem but it's because of diverticulitis. This attack has been coming and going for 3 months and I'm on my 2nd round of antibiotics. Please, someone HELP!
0 -
Ro, do you drink any alcohol or smoke. If so stop all for about a month. After a few days to one week b/c you want to see what the response is.. At the end of first test period, add probiotic powder Tbl spoon mixed in with yogurt or gottage cheese, or cereal. 2-3 tx's a day. after 2-3 days to evaluate tollerance i.e no s.e.'s. Get the superdophilus at a health food store. Next Add stewed prunes or appricots as previously described by other in previous posts. Then start to add fiber1-2 gms per day( this one clear with your doc). Work up to 25-30 gms of fiber a day. Preferably, by food, but if you must use a product ask your doc--there are many OTC products--Metamucil, citracell. For any constipation keep miralax and glycerin sypositories on hand. The key to the above is these are basically all natural products--excluding Miralax.and suppositories.
You could start faster if you want>>quit alcohol/smoking>start probiotics same day>> prunes same day>>and fiber (Fiber needs to be clear with doc this is a must during active diverticulitis). But if you start everything at once, you won't know which one is changing things. You could say I don't care, I want relief now. I get that. Had diverticulitis twice, lost part of the Colon. Not just quoting out of a book here. My second bout with d-itisis was b/c of celebrex.
What drugs are you on?----------Good luck and let us all know what works
If you have time to read from the beginning you make find something you over read before. Worthe a try.0 -
Aussis Sheila, I laugh every time we post together and then there is Seyla sheila. That's why I some time ad USA sheila LOL
0 -
So glad to find this thread!! Pre BMX I was a smoker and NEVER had a problem with regularity. Now almost one year after BMX and three reconstructive surgeries as well as quitting smoking, I only go once a week!!! I also attribute my weight gain to lack of movement.
Adding lots of fiber and trying to drink more water............
0 -
I should add that fiber is not an innocuous, harmless thing. In a colon that is not used to working the fiber through b/c a colon used to a low fiber diet or also known as low residue , the muscle layer of the colon is weak. If too much fiber is introduced too fast, it can actually cause an OBSTRUCTION. If tic's are present, it may cause a blowout. So, just b/c you hear eat lots of fiber. Doesn't make it totally true. 1-2 gms per week to whip that colon into shape. Then keep it up the rest of your life. Please read water section 1st page. Too much fiber without enough water(liquid)can make cement. TRY and poop that out. Effectively that's how adobe mud houses are made
."The Joys of POOP". WE all should write a book.
It's time for some Poop jokes. Of course they can't be clean.
0 -
Hey Ingoo. I just added a thing on fiber. Then posted and there was your post . This was meant for you babe.LOL. above
SAS
0 -
ingoodcompany is right. Drinking more water defiintely helps. I know that physical activity helps but that's not always easy for us. I've had a few days of issues, but I do know that drinking DanActive has helped my stomach. So many new and fun experiences with breast cancer
0 -
Please, oh, please, Read from the beginning . there is so much good info written by everyone. The nurses in the group or that fly by try do add info about safe things. Pay attention to the safe recommendations. They will help keep you from getting a Blowout. I will periodically, post this in case someone drops in that bypasses the beginning
0 -
Does taking docusate sodium (stool softener) on a regular basis hurt anything? That plus about a gallon of water finally broke up my log jam. I think it's the calcium. Perhaps that's why I've never been able to take it regularly.
0 -
Wren I think the taking dulcolax question should be answered by your GI doc or pharmasist. Over time your body will become less responsive, which then you need to find a new routine.
Calcium is a sure bet on constipation. Trying some of the things recommended from the beginning would be worth a try. How much Ca++ a day. Less likely to get constipated if you take it through your food. Using Ca++ to prevent osteopenia/osteoporosis.?Induce by AI's?
0 -
Thanks for the info, Sas. I can always count on you! I don't drink or smoke and the only med. I take is the generic Arimidex. I take probiotics every day and I will take your advice on slowly adding fiber. I'm drinking so much water, I feel like a camel! I just bought the Splenda with 1 gram of fiber per serving. I'll get some apricots tomorrow. Thanks again, I'll let you know how things progress. I'm hoping this too shall pass (that was my poop joke!).
0 -
Ro don't take your probiotic within two hours of anti bx. b/c it will just kill it. Take probiotics at least 3-4 times a day while on antibx. You're likely on Keflex which is cephlahexin. Taken usualy 4 tx's aday with D-tic. So. it's a real trick to keep evrything 2 hours apart.
It's time to have the serious sitdown with your GI doc about getting that stretch of colon out. Rationale. It's reared it's ugly head twice. Now with this bout the timing has been very long or protracted. Being on prolonged antibx's can mess with your immune system and have long term consequences. Each doc has.there approach. He presented it to me almost as I presented it to you. Except the finale rationale was you could avoid a rupture. Once tic's rupture, there is no way to predict until it's all over ,with how the course of events is going to go. My choice at the time was to get the offending portion out. What I would change is, I would have done it sooner. I delayed things for several weeks b/c of a family reunion.
Left big thought out after re-reading your post. If your tics are causing you pain, during those periods you should be on clear liquids until the pain goes away. Pain worsen's--get yourself to the ER.
0 -
Sas - Taking calcium because I have osteopenia and have just started aromatase. I have been taking it 2 x day because I read you can only absorb 500 at a time. I got the citrate because it's a little easier on the tummy. My food intake is limited by lactose intolerance - not severe, but can't just drink milk. I'm going to try the dried plums. I love dried apricots, but have never noticed a change when I eat them. I used to keep dried apricots and almonds on hand for a good snack.
0 -
Sas, did you have to have a colostomy after resection and if so, for how long?
0 -
Ro ---No I didn't have a colostomy. There was a minimal possibility that I would, but that's why I choose the ELECTIVE COLON RESECTION. I didn't want to risk a rupture. My Gi doc recommends after two bouts , an elective be considered b/c of rupture risk. So, it's a hard decision. Like I said have a sit down with your GI doc.----GOOD LUCK
Wren---consider rice milk , lactose free, estrogen free, loaded with calcium. There is also , almond milk and some others. Anyone interested on the estrogen in our cow's milk google key words. Risks of cow's milk and estrogen.
0 -
I drink almond milk, but rice is good also. 0
-
Ptdreamer, I chose rice milk simply b/c I was allergic to the others. I think the key is once people read about the dangers of USA milk they will switch to an alternative. Plus they load them with Calcium, which we all need b/c of the AI;s and tamox causing osteo. Oral pill calcium is sooooooooo constipating
0 -
If anyone is experiencing anal fissures due to the constipation, try manuka honey. My acupuncturist told me about it and it, along with nifedipine, seems to be working. It has antibiotic properties that seem to help a number of skin and digestive disorders. It's expensive, but if it works-it's worth every penny!
I believe if I can keep my stool soft, very soft, these fissures will heal with the help of these products. They have so far worked to minimize the pain throughout the day. BMs are still somewhat painful but that's to be expected until these fissures completely heal.0 -
NCB---------had a very long involved piece that went to the computer netherworld. Couldn't rewrite. Except when fissures are involved be very careful not to stick up anything up the anus unless specifically instructed by the GI doc. Could be dangerous. There is one drug I can think that they might recommend, but again please , don't do it without express orders. Good luck.
0 -
Bump, I will bump this weekly or so, their are so many good suggestions from folks I don't want it to get lost.
0 -
Bump----read thead from beginning, has much info from many giving people sheila
0 -
Never had issues with this until chemo and all of these drugs. So most days I take two gummy "Fiber Well" chews. Not something recommended by my doctor, just something I saw at the pharmacy. Trust me, it works. I've figured out all of the best restrooms on the route from my daughter's school back to our house in the morning.
I used to eat Kashi-Go-Lean cereal every day, but it has soy and isn't organic, so I stopped eating it. My hair stylist called it Kashi-Go-Poop! In any event, there must be some really good organic cereals with fiber, would love some recommendations.
0 -
JENILEE HAVE TO WRITE IN CAPS RIGHT NOW, EYE TROUBLE.
TRY A HEALTH FOOD STORE FIRST, THEN DO COMPARISON SHOPPING AT LOCAL STORE.. i'M ALWAYS WARY OF STANDARD STORES TRUTH TELLING ABOUT ORGANIC. THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS THE GOVERNMENT HAS ALLOWED GETTING AROUND WHAT IS TRUTH IN THE PACKAGE.
0 -
check on amazon.com. They have EVERYTHING!
0 -
BUMP
0 -
There was just a report on the Kashi cereal that said that it was not the "organic food" that they claim...I have boxes in my pantry so thinking of throwing them out. I am going to check google and get more info on this report before I do that.
0 -
Uncle Sam cereal is very good and packed with fiber. The only negative is the flax seeds are whole and get caught in my teeth! I mail order a great supplement from Europe called Fruit and Fibre made by Oris. It is a chewable all natural and works like a dream for me. Wish I could buy in the states
0 -
Just wanted to share with you something that has saved my sanity. I have diverticulitis and have been sick since December. My onc said my BC treatment had probably made my condition worse. I was on several antibiotics which worked for a few days and then the fever would come back. I got a sinus infection in April and was given Clarithromycin (sp?). Of course, it caused another case of thrush on my tongue. ARRGH! I went to GNC to get some strong probiotics and a lady came up to me and asked me if I was taking the probiotics for stomach problems so of course we got into a discussion of our tummy troubles. I told her I was looking at either an intestinal blowout or surgery. She suggested I try taking 8 ounces of Aloe Vera juice with fruit juice daily. She said she'd been drinking it for years and it had cured her GERD. (Oh by the way, she was buying Bert's Bees lotion.) I figured what the heck and started drinking it. And it WORKED! No more stomach pain, nausea or diarrhea! It's been a month now and so far so good. I need to hang out in GNC more often. I don't know if this will help anyone else, but I used Aloe gel on my radiation burn with awesome results and now I'm getting the same by using Aloe on the inside.
0 -
I think I have tried everything to help me "go" on a regular basis and nothing seems to work except a supplement for digestive health. It is Cascara Sagrada 450 mg. I do not take it everyday...maybe 2-3 times a week. Every time I take one by the evening I go and then I go the next morning. I told my husband that a good BM is better than sex...LOL
do you research on this supplement and also you might want to ask your doctor about it if you are on medication....
0 -
Ok everybody get ready for this tip. If it's mentioned earlier, then take this as another endorsement.
Everyone needs to try CHIA SEEDS! It works! I have had an anal fissure since chemo --ouch. Could not get regular, but voila! Success.
Lot's of positives for chia seeds:
Has a favorable soluble/insoluble fiber ratio. It is one of the few plant based sources of omega 3s (also has good omega 3/6 ratio). It's shelf stable, doesn't go rancid or need to be ground. When soaked in water, it absorbs 9 times it's weight in water and forms a gel like substance that actually helps you retain hydration longer. And, reportedly helps block or slow the absorption of carbohydrates.
Whew, it's a superfood. You can even cook with the gel, where it can replace fats, sugars in recipes.
It is a little awkward to take. I do one tablespoon a day and holy sh*t -- literally!. Only you ladies can truly understand the relief I'm talking about.
Seriously, get at whole foods, google it and go for it! (put in smoothies, sprinkle on cottage cheese, shove it in your mouth, just DO IT,,,,,,)
Amanda0 -
I have been taking 1 tablespoon of Chia Seeds in my green tea for 2 months now...it is a superfood but did nothing for my going problem...like I said in the above post, only Cascara Sagrada helped me. I will continue with the chia seeds...they are super!!
0 -
Yesterday I had the colonoscopy that I told you I was having earlier in this thread, and the doctor says he can't find a thing wrong with me, and I don't have to go back for 10 years. It's really good news, especially as the problem that bothered me originally after my breast cancer surgery was already getting better. Being told there's nothing wrong with you when you feel awful can be worse than being told you're sick, because when you know what's wrong, something will be done about it. The doctor suggested that I have a consultation with my regular family doctor.
I hope constipation isn't a side effect of any of the sedatives that I got. I was given Fentanyl and Versed. If constipation is a side effect of either of these, could someone let me know so I can start taking a stool softener?
0 -
I believe that all sedatives (and pain killers) have a side-effect of diminishing the work of your intestines - which in turn leads to constipation. I don't know anything factual about either of those two in particular, though.
0 -
Gardengrumby--the opiates interfere with the MU receptors in the intestines. There has been a drug approved that prevents this , but it is under very strict guidelines by the FDA--it's name is Entereg. Not available outside of hospitals. When it was in development-trials, I actually bought stock . But lost money and sold it. Subsequently was approved.
Sedatives can cause constipation , but don't know the route b/c I haven't studied it. As a young nursing student learning drugs, one of the things that the older nursing students passed on was when quizzed on your drugs by the instructors always start with " nausea/ vomiting, diarrhea, constipation". That got you four to start with.
0 -
It's three days now since the colonoscopy and it's still a bit too soon, I think, to know if I've got a problem. Yesterday I didn't feel any bowel activity at all, but today I"m feeling a bit bloated and passing some gas. Something should come out within a day or two, I should think. I'll know i have problems if I get a really strong urge (hasn't happened yet) and it's stuck in there.
Doctors shouldn't use drugs that can cause constipation when they're doing a test like that. After going through that prep, I've had enough trouble with that part of my body and want things to get back to normal. I've been drinking lots of water. That should help.
0 -
Booboo2---You did a total colon clean-out with the prep. Depending what you ate since, and the working of you gastrointestinal tract, 3 days after a colonoscopy, it isn't considered that abnormal to not pass anything. Check in with your GI doc. If you are taking drugs that delay gastric motility meaning slows every thing down for example, pain medicine and or other drugs, It's not the drugs they used for the scope. It may be what you are using on a daily basis and what you are eating or not eating.
0 -
Bump- or bum in this case- to poop or not to poop that is the question?
0 -
I am a recent adapter to a magnesium supplement called Natural Calm. Helps with the bowels and I also notice it helps with some toe cramping I was experiencing.
0 -
i drink a senna diet tea.. works goods for me because i can have a little cup or just a couple sips.
celery, an apple, dried cherries.. (oh yeah,, they're the best with dried apricots and apples)
0 -
Bump
0 -
The following link was sent by SpecialK --defiinitely worth a read.
Here is a prune and bone health link:
http://www.fyiliving.com/health-news/why-your-bones-love-prunes/
0 -
Bump for more comfortale butts.
0 -
Bump for plugged up butts
0 -
I have been taking gummies, called Fiber Well by Vitafusion. Got them at Costco. They are working, finally feeling normal. They are 5 grams of fiber per serving. Does anyone know of any negative issues with taking supplements in this form? I also take the calcium and multi in this gummie form. Makes it easier than swallowing all those pills.
0 -
I think the only thing with gummies would be to brush your teeth afterwards. I think the stickiness might contribute to cavities.
0 -
Another vote here for the Uncle sam cereal.
0 -
Brownies work for me every time whether I have a problem or not!
0 -
Hlb--so what's in the brownies?
0 -
Corn on the cob is helpful. Probably due to the fiber.
0 -
Bump for a better go......
0 -
Bump for honeybair
0 -
Avocado! As long as I eat one or two a week, I'm good.
0 -
I had a horrible time with this while on my FEC regime, it was probably my worst SE, and no matter what I did, I didnt go for about 4-5 days after each treatment. I am a vegetarian and always ate lots of veg's and fibre, and I took stool softener during treatment, but it was like someone flipped a switch and everything shut down. IMO it didn't matter so much what I was eating because the muscle contractions to "move" things along weren't there. By week's end I typically looked like I was several months pregnant.
I did find licorice tea somewhat helpful, and as for the fallout from the constipation I have two words for you:
WITCH HAZEL
Following a tip I'd found somewhere, I purchased a full bottle of witch hazel and a plastic container of unscented baby wipes. Open the container and pour a large quantity of the witch hazel in there, and keep those on hand for cleaning. I also used gauze or what not soaked in witch hazel against my skin down there when things got really bad. It did help.
0 -
I have always had irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, but have noticed that for the 3 1/2 years I've been on tamoxifen, it has gotten worse, to the point that I "go" only one good "go" maybe once a week, and the rest of the time, when I do "go", it's pellets. I take daily fiber, magnesium and prune or apple juice. I eat lots of natural fiber in fruits and veggies. Drink lots of water. The only thing that helps is either casgarda sagrada (spelling?) or stool softener. It's been getting worse, so 2 days ago I used magnesium citrate, and spent that evening and the following morning with explosive diarreah. I am going to my GP for a routine exam next week and am going to ask him what to do, because I forsee being on tamox for a while still. It's so frustrating!!!
0 -
Bump
0 -
Bump for me
0 -
OMG, this has been a huge problem for me during chemo. A couple weeks ago, I seriously considered going to the hospital because I was in so much pain trying to have a BM. I have a hemorroid too, which made it worse, and of course it bleeds every time I'm constipated. I felt like I was giving birth through my butt! I tried mineral oil, prunes, lots of fruit juice, coffee, etc. Finally got some relief, but it's a recurring problem. I seem to alternate between constipation and diarrhea. Ugh...
0 -
My oncologist told me to start Miralax every day as soon as I started chemo. I didn't want to take it so I didn't and got into some serious problems with constipation, I was miserable but finally I listened to her and it did the job...I was afraid it would be "too strong" but it was gentle and easy and I had no problems once I got started. I am still taking it as I continue to recover from the side effects of the chemo, she told me it would be 6 months to a year before I would be "back to normal" so I am trying to be patient...I'm so sorry you are going thru this (((spartygirl))), I hope you find an answer that helps you...(((Hugs))) Maureen
0 -
So glad to have found this thread!
Post-surgery I had extreme issues. I didn't go for... 9 days? And even after that it was little teeny rocks. It took at least 2-3 weeks for me to start having bowel movements that even vaguely resembled "normal." More than once I was stuck on the toilet for 1-2 HOURS, worse than childbirth, really was traumatic!
For me it was the anti-nausea meds, I think, plus a bit of narcotics didn't help, but once I stopped taking any meds I started getting back on track. In the meantime, all the colace and veggies and prunes and senna and probiotics and stuff did nothing to get me going.
So I'm starting chemo in just over a week and terrified I will have similar results! But also worried that if I take something preventatively, I'll be the one to end up with diarrhea instead, and complicate things by taking stool softners. I just want the first round to go as smoothly a possible. So do I take something the day before/day of? Wait and see how I respond first? (I am getting TCx4.) Some of my nausea meds are the same ones I took after surgery so I'm really worried. What would be most gentle & effective without causing the opposite problem?
0 -
indenial, I had major constipation issues with my chemo, same painfully traumatic toilet experiences as you! I would highly recommend starting a stool softener the day before chemo (they are gentle, something like colace) and continuing throughout the chemo. Drink lots of water, don't be afraid of Metamucil, and keep a gentle (senokot) laxative on hand. I needed to use all of the above on a daily (sometimes twice daily) basis and finally the only thing that ended up helping in the end was the addition of lactulose syrup. I had never had this problem in my life before so I couldn't believe how many bowel meds I ended up on, but my MO said you have to do what you have to do. I'm now 3+ months post chemo and all is good again with no meds whatsoever
(didn't take too long either, only a couple of weeks) good luck!0 -
Ducky, colon ulceration generally starts with "something" , a cellular change, bacterial, viral( I'd have to google but sounds plausible as viruses attack many things). The bacterial(possible viral) change can cause a diarrhea with a pass through of intestinal contents from the small intestine through to the large intestine also known as the colon. The contents of the small intestine are a different pH than the large intestine. The large intestine/colon the lining can be inflammed, craters or ulcers can occur. The inflamation can be so severe that passing of stool can be interferred with. The lining can be ulcerated or lost. When this happens bleeding can occur. If the ulcer is near a blood vessel, depending on size of the vessel, bleeding can range from small to severe. This is known as a GI bleed-gastrointestinal(stomachintiestine) bleed. If the intestinal wall is breached b/c of ulceration or break , it is known as a perforation. A perforation is an acute medical emergency s/s's increasing abdominal pain,'fever, board like abdomen. Google for further info b/c that's not the problem now.
There are conditions of the colon that the problem originates in the colon versus as a result of stool from the small intestine. The management can be the same or different-- depends. BUT big BUT for you (YEAH) the pain has reduced since you started the med. So, as your doc has said continuing the med appears good until you are seen by GI doc. The reduction in pain confirms that the intestinal environment is likely less inflamed. Otherwise, there would be no change in your symptoms. The right sided pain can mean it's still the colon nearest anus as anatomically there are variations, but could be over to right colon. Google keywords "picture of colon" or "anatomy of colon". What to report: symptoms change or worsen. Check each stool for blood can vary from bright red to black. Different reasons for the color reasons, the key is to report the change b/c it identifies a condition change and management changes.
Skin care of rectal area. As the colon can be inflammed , the tissue around the rectum can feel as if it's burned when freguent diarrhea occurs. Some suggestions. 1. Use a squezze bottle filled with water to spray on area before wiping. 2. Wipe gently or PAT clean, using Tucks can be good --place in fridge to keep cold. Very soothing on a burning butt. 3. Apply a soothing rectal ointment once skin clean. Ask doc for recommendation, many products on market or availble by prescription. MY personal favorite is Bag Balm. 4. Careful handwashing with an antibacterial soap is good. In severe situations using gloves even for your own bottom is good, then still wash hands thoroughly. 5. In woman care must be taken to not contaminate the vagina and urinary opening. I think this is the only thing that guys have, that's an advantage.
Ducky going to transfer this to my teaching library and my constipation thread. I write about such fun stuff LOL. I'll bring back the links for the constipation thread, and the diarrhea thread that Jill(?) started. You may find some pearls or nuggets(pun) on either. Sassy/sheila
0 -
Good Morning-friends, have been working on an issue with a member. Wanted to share with you all the note below b/c of it's importance. Hope you find it useful Sassy
(members name deleted) Glad the link helped. If you get the AARP magazine this months issue (probably dated may 2013) , there is a story about the safest hospitals and what safety procedures that are in place that cause them to be safe. The article cites that 180,000 people die a year due to medical/surgical errors AND 400,000 drug errors are made a year. The articles states that these numbers are likely higher b/c these are the ones that are reported. I agree. I know you've seen where I've said on the threads "Sorry etc for too much info, just want too make you(BCO memebers) safer". Guess I should stop apologizing for writing stuff in this regard. These numbers are higher then the last set of numbers that I had known. The problem is either getting worse OR there is better reporting. I'll go with better reporting.
It cited that one of the safety items was having an ICU Intensivist. It cited that only 35% of hospitals had Intensivist. I was dismayed at this percentage since residencies for Critical Care Medicine have been available since the 1980's. Truly thought by now that the "industry" would have been driven by demand for better care that this statistic would be 70 to 80%. ICU medicine is absolutely in need of a specially trained doc. Just as in all subspecialties of the American Medical Association(AMA), the knowledge and skills of this subspecialty are critical to survival when a patient is at this level of need.
I'm going to post this on the threads, I'll take off identifiers. My hope is those seeing this will locate a copy of the AARP article. Read it throroughly. Then question there local hospitals on each item. Based on what they elicit re:safety of each facility, they can choose the safest hospital near them for care. It can mean the difference between life and death, and or avoidable complications. Spreading the word to others regarding this may save lives.
Your description of where your friends daughter is now is typical. So, the care may have been fine or she recovered in spite of them. I'll go with the care b/c of your description of how she appears now. What was truly lacking here was the communication in lay terms to the family of was what was going on with the patient. All the lay person then can do observing is assume, as in this patients case, there appeared to be fractured care delivery and choas. What can the untrained person concluded observing this. As in all care, communication is the center of it all. Very often even the care givers question what the recovery will be. AND then the patient pulls through. Continuing with evaluating the records will lend a lot to the understanding of this event.
0 -
Here's how I was feeling yesterday. slightly better today!
0 -
Repost from another thread in response to Phgraham,
Went to get constipation link, and see that you've been there, 8 pages talking poop, if you can't find sumpin to get you going let me know and i'll do a search. BTW your taking calcium because of? Calcium as you likely know is a constipator, add that to opiods-narcotics, it's like mixing cement. If your taking the calcium b/c of ostopenia/osteoporosis, a talk with your doc is in order to see what they recommend. The problem is not just the pain and discomfort of constipation. Prolonged and or severe constipation puts to much stress on the colon wall. Can lead to troubles like diverticulitosis(condition of pouches on colon wall) diverticulitis(inflammation of the pouches). Pg 1 on C thread I did a thing on divertic. Not recommending you change tx w/o talking to doc, but chat with them about not taking the two on the same day, or reducing calcium dose when taking narc. Watch your diet for things that can bind like cheese i.e high calcium foods. Is there any food in your past that only caused loose stools that you removed from your diet? Cabbage soup for me is a true thing to cause diarrhea Ugh. So, the thought being if you had a food trigger that caused diarrhea in the past that isn't contraindicated( definition--Do not use) with present drugs, re-add that to your diet and see what the outcome(pun intended) is. Actually measure for several days how much fluid your drinking. Calcium+ narcs+ to little fluids= reinforced concrete. Discussion of high fiber diets has fallen into disfavor by the American Society of Gastroenterologists. BUT BUT it does not mean that all GI docs agree with it. This position is very contraversial at this point.Good luck with outcome sassy---Transferring this to constipation thread
0 -
sas - I read through all 8 freekin' pages! I read them through the last time I had chemo also. I was thinking it might be the senna-s that was causing the cramping (and not working all that well) so I quit taking it. I have always had cramping with any kind of laxative. Once before I had tried room temp prune juice followed by hot tea with the senna-s and that sorta worked.
Yesterday I went with my fiber supplement, warm prune juice and hot tea. The good news is that I was able to poop! The bad news is that I still had the same sicky cramping in my belly. I'm thinking that a 10 foot python lives in there now and is still trying to get comfy.
Today I'm going with the fiber and half of the prune juice and hot tea and see where we get. I will also monitor my water intake. I've always been able to drink LOTS of water - between 2-3 liters a day, but with my taste buds dying, I might have been slacking. I'll check it. And yes, I cut out the calcium until MO yells about it. She and I had a mild argument last fall, after treatment, about whether EVERY WOMAN in the world needs it. I think I'm special - no osteopenia, no osteoporosis and no signs of such. She got all technical on me and I lost the thread of the conversation, except that I was supposed to take the calcium
I really might be able to stand this forking chemo if I can just get my gut to go along with it.
Thanks for you help here. You are the BEST!!!
Phyllis
0 -
Hi, I'm learning a lot thru this topic. Thank you all!
About adequate water intake: a registered dietician told me to examine the color of my urine. If I am getting enough water, my urine should be the color of light lemonade. Anything deeper yellow means your water intake is not enough.
Tried it for several days, some of which I was able to drink a lot of water and other days I didn't. Quite a difference in the color of my urine.
Question: Pre, during, and post mastectomy I treated myself to Fiji water. The best bottled water I've ever tasted, absolutely no after taste like I get with other waters.
Now it's time to get real with the budget. Fiji is the most expensive water around. Has anyone found a bottled water with no after taste that's reasonably priced?
Peggy0 -
One more thing. A doctor I know recommended cooking up a batch of dried prunes, dried apricots, and any other tasty dried fruit in your grocery. Add slices of lemon which you will discard at the end of stewing these fruits in water (she left it to me to figure out the amount of water, since it was her grandmother's recipe and she hadn't made it in some time.)
It worked but i have two concerns about using it frequently: 1. It takes a lot of time to make up a batch of this and 2. We're supposed to be cutting back on sugar and these dried fruits contain a lot of sugar.
Today I need to go. I look pregnant. Going to try some of your suggestions.
Peggy0 -
Peggy, I can sometimes drink tea, but I've always liked water better plus it's easier on your kidneys. Now though with chemotastebuds, I'm having a harder time. Doesn't seem to matter whether filtered or bottled for me. Good luck!
0 -
Thanks ph, I'll never forget the chemo taste buds. Every thing tasted like cardboard to me except for McDonald's strawberry jam. Only McDonalds serves it (it is made specifically for this chain restaurant) and my DH would go to different McDonalds trying to buy a case of it and some days he would come home with three packets for $0.15 cents and other days he'd hit the jackpot and bring a bag home free.
Does anything taste good to you now?
Peggy0 -
Peggy, great addition about checking urine color. I bet if you contacted McDonalds , they would send you a bunch. Love your doc's GM's recipe. The overall opinions in the first eight pages, identified apricots and prunes and lemon as the best to get things moving. It just seems logical with that in mind that putting them together would really work well. Probably at least 12 to 18 oz's of water would give enough for two days. Adding Ginger would help with nausea. (Avoid ginger if on coumadin/warfarin).
0 -
Phyll, if that cramping doesn't straighten out check-in with your doc. or let us know when you pass that python. Glad you cleaned out some. Reading so many pages on pooping is not something any of ever thought we do! That's why I say any pun that comes to mind alleviates some of the serious thinking about such an uncomfortable topic. We should get Chevy here for a few posts . Her wit would certainly help!
0 -
Saw this on active thread, don't know if this has been suggested: I go to Costco and get their LARGE bag of pitted prunes. Use about 8, add water, lemon juice, or lime juice, microwave for a minute or so - and eating them MOISTENED is important, work faster. Also HYDRATION is crucial, drink more water than you ever thought you'd be able to drink. good luck.
eta: NO CHEESE when you are constipated - it will only add to the problem.
0 -
Sunflower Thanks, all have been discussed, but each are so important, rementioning them always has value.
0 -
Note on hydration, Previous post mention the average amount an adult should drink--arrorximatly 2 liters a day. We just had a discussion re: measuring what you actually drink versus what you think your drinking. And then looking at urine color. Pale to clear urine idicates --well hydrated. Dark yellow indicates poor hydration. This is medically referred to as concentrated urine.
Would like to add if you determine your hydration status indicates you need more fluids. Add these fluids slowly over several days till you reach your goal of the amount you want to maintain daily. The important reason for this is you want your body to adjust. The kidney is responsible for maintaining fluid balance. The kidney just like any organ needs time to "recognize" changing levels. It will then change how it controls these levels. If too much is added at one time, it may not adjust fast enough. This would then stress the heart. Just as too much fiber added to the diet in a short period of time can lead to blockage or obstruction, too much fluid can lead to problems. The key is moderation when initiating something new
0 -
I haven't read all pages so maybe its mentioned but, magnesium 500 mg a day. I tried a lot of things that just didn't work but this was the magic bullet for me. But it had to be 500 not 250. I have to take calcium because of being on XGEVA. I think its good to take the mag with the calcium for absorbtion anyway. Try it out. Just plain cheap mag oxide pills.
0 -
Apr 30, 2013 09:52 PM, edited Apr 30, 2013 11:17 PM by sas-schatzi
Scottie and Cami and all, I reviewed multiple articles with changing keywords. Keywords as we all know change what we pull as responses. The words I put about the immunocomprimised person are the same. I did find a nicely written article about "Rectal Administration of Medication"
www.healthline.com/galecontent...
The significance of this article is that is directed at nurses as to how to do it correctly. For us as patients, it gives us a guide to know what is correct. For those of us that need to have a home guide, it is valuable for self use, or training someone to do this for us. The ideal would be to have a nurse train both you and helper to do this. Again what I like about this internet article is it covers all the basics , just like I learned it.
______________________________________________________________________
www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug...
The significance of this article by Mayo clinic is they teach about the drugs by name and then talk about use. Trying to keep the name of the drug attached to it's use is hard let alone how it works. These instruction pages do a good job. FYI, I didn't use keyword Mayo Clinic, but Mayo should be a first go to site for info on all things medical. They have teaching info on everything. Analogy, BCO main board is a first go to site for all things BC, thats what Mayo is to all other stuff(glad I can use slang versus prettified language).
Tired now, no more searching. Please review links, if they don't satisfy your need to know question, post question
sassyLast thought about use of enemas and suppositories, The doc technical papers all stated not to use in "a reduced immune state". All referrenced neutriplils and WBC's being below normal as a reason to not use. None refferenced that are immune systems are altered when using things like AI's and Tamox. So, discuss with doc , I suppose the MO is the most qualified. Lastly when using , lubricate well and be very gentle with insertion.
Your review of these links and the questions you pose ARE IMPORTANT, it will identify flaws in the search. Once no other questions are received , I will then add this to the Constipation thread.
0 -
sass - I had 76 oz of water (about my usual intake) yesterday plus juice and tea so I may be in the ballpark on fluid intake. And my pee is very light yellow. You're right, I had some relief but today I'm back to square one. My python is still there, but seems to be sleeping this morning.
0 -
this one looks better!
0 -
OMG Phyll, that stawberry snake is soooo cute and yummy looking. A nice visual diversion here. Measuring your fluid intake has been valuable. Figuire 8 oz to a glass, you are at 8 plus glasses a day, urine indicates well hydrated. So, constipation is not from lack of fluids. Good thing to know. Allows you to concentrate on finding a remedy that works for you:)
Note on abdominal cramping: can be normal individual response when colon working. Can be abnormal when blockage or obstruction present. Generally, if cramping becomes intense or exceedingly painful, prolonged in time, doubles you over, takes your breath away that is a warning to seek medical evaluation.
0 -
Hallelujah!! We have achieved poopage! Two days in a row...and the python may be sleeping. Abdomen still doesn't feel normal but it's WAY better than the python fight.
Current treatment is 6 oz room temp prune juice followed by hot tea followed by breakfast followed by Xeloda.0 -
Congratulations! Lol!! I just remembered something and again, sorry if its already been mentioned. If you search youtube there are instructions for massaging the abdomen and I found that sometimes it really works. At the time I think I was half going off the deep end over it and that was just contributing to the problem, so I laid down and did the massage very slowly and thoroughly which really helped me to relax mentally as well. I starting imagining I would have to go to the ED to get disimpacted and how utterly mortified I would be, then I thought, even worse, I could have an obstruction and need surgery and a colostomy and just really turned it into a total nightmare in my mind! Lol
0 -
Hi Ladies,
I just started my chemo treatments and by far the worst SE (except for bone pain) was the constipation. Like most of you, I've tried the senna-S, 3 litres of water daily, bran buds, yogurt, etc, but my bowel was still lacking the stim it needed to push things along. I used Microlax to get things moving after the 3rd day because I didn't want to become impacted.
Because I've always had IBS-C, I've used Microlax on occasion throughout the years. It has always worked without issue to stimulate a movement and acts as a laxative through its faecal softening and lubricant properties. It comes in a box of 12 and I have had to use it twice daily when I swore I was trying to pass a softball
It may be something to ask your doctor about. It's available OTC in Canada. 0 -
Congratulatios to all you poopers!!!!!!!!
found sthis old post I did on PORT placement thread eaons ago. Is applicable here as we all have so many surgeries.
Jul 2, 2011 05:53 PM, edited Jul 5, 2011 08:17 AM by sas-schatzi
Post -op hydration or the taking in of oral fluids is very important to avoid dehydration. That was discussed a couple of posts ago.
BUT solid food you have to be careful with. The meds used during surgery can slow down the working wave like motion of the intestinal tract. Introducing too much food, too fast post-op can cause the intestinal tract to go to sleep. The medical term is an ileus. It's as if the intestine is saying "I'm not ready yet". You can avoid this problem post-op by starting first with clear liquids.
Clear liquids include anything you can see through--clear broths , jello, tea/coffee,Popsicles. If you tolerate the clear liquids i.e no nausea or vomiting,abd pain, bloating, burping, then you can move onto full liquids.
Full liquids include milk or anything made with milk --like ice cream,custards. If full liquids are tolerated, again no N/V-bloating, burping, then move to a soft low residue foods.
Soft low residue diet is easily digested and doesn't irritate the intestinal tract. The hyperlink below is a very complete listing of what is include on this diet-www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/en...
Again , if there are no abdominal complaints----N/V, bloating, pain, burping, The BIGGEST question of all, is are you passing gas from the rectum. This is important because it tells us the intestinal tract is awake and moving in the right direction-------Yeah And a first bowel movement is to be applauded.
The exact amount of time at each level cannot be predicted. The key is no symptoms/ passing gas/ and bowel movement.
Time to move to a regular diet------this means there are no dietary/food restrictions. Start with small portions, and may be 4-5 small meals for a day or so.
This is a limited outline of how to avoid an ileus. Googling ileus will give you more info. I've put this here, to make you aware of how to protect yourself from this complication of surgery. I suggest further reading and discussion of this with your doctor.
In general with IV conscious sedation, also known as twilght, you would not expect an ileus to happen, but being careful to avoid it can prevent allot of problems, So, have a little patience waiting for the positive passing of the gas and poop -er BM.
0 -
HLB - I responded to your post yesterday, but can't find what I wrote. Or remember for that matter! anyway, I'm going to check out YouTube. Who knew stuff like that would be posted? Amazing!
Tunerville, thanks for the tip. Right now things are working but you never know when you'll need something new.
As for you miss sassy - I love you to pieces!
Phyllis
0 -
Phyll, Love you back sweetie sassy,
Turner, your post was a DUH moment. Yes abd massage has been around for ever, BUT you are the first to post of it here. THANK YOU! GREAT ADDITION!
0 -
Bump
0 -
I've had hemorrhaging diverticulosis for more than 10 years. I have been hospitalized once or twice a year. I have had 4 blood transfusions' every test they can give you and colonoscopies for each hospitalization. However, although I bleed a lot, my doctors have not been able to find the source of the bleed. Several times,it got real bad. Ended up in intensive care twice. They considered taking my whole colon but was afraid the bleed could've been in my small intestines. My last hospitalization was September 2012- shortest stay which was 4 day. The bleeds have managed to stop by themselves after bed rest. I was diagnosed with Cancer in February and since all I have worried about is going into another bleed. I made it through the Mastectomy but now I find the hormone therapy or the pain meds are constipating me. I am now in the process of my reconstruction but need to get back regular. So happy through I made it through the mastectomy Now I am glad to have gotten to my treatment but do not want to go back in the hospital for the diverticulosis. I am a teacher and could not work the last 7 weeks of school. With the reconstruction process going on through the summer, I am afraid that if I start another bleed- then I may miss more work. My job is very important to me so I need to do whatever I can to get back regular. I read some of your suggestions. Hope something works for me.
0 -
Dwilli its hard to know exactly what to do because I don't know what things might aggravate the bleed. Have you read back through the posts on this thread? There a lot of good ones but if you don't have time for that a what I use is 500 mg magnesium every day. Its good because most people do not get enough magnesium. I also use generic ex lax pills. The ingredients say sennosides. The pills are blue and I take two of them which works really well, but since I started the magnesiun daily I have not taken them. I also learned on youtube how to massage my abdomen which works well and is relaxing. Try to walk a bit every day. I would check with the doctor about anything you try due to the bleeds that you get. When I had surgery I woke up with a big lump on one side of my belly. I didn't realize what it was at first, then after a few days of pain pills it got so bad I had to use an enema.
0 -
HLB, thanks! I think I will look into the magnesium. I've been using the generic ex lax about every 4 days but am afraid it may trip off a bleed. All I am trying to do is get through one illness at a time. My gastrointestinal doctor called me to set up an appointment and I told her I was going through cancer treatment. She seemed surprised and asked me what kind when I told her it was BC she seemed somewhat relaxed and asked me to make an appointment at a later time. I've had a colon rectal surgeon who having been following me the entire time. I haven't even told her I have BC. Sometimes it seems overwhelming to manage these illnesses.
0 -
Here is a link to one of the. massage videos:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=N39GIWquhWg&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DN39GIWquhWg0 -
Dwill, don't need to tell you your case is quite odd. You've lived through it. Ex lax can actually change the lining of the colon. This usually occurs with more frequent use than what you do i.e. daily. Have they ever tried one of those cameras that you swallow? It sounds like you've got good docs, have either sought a 2nd opinion up the doc chain?
0 -
Bump
0 -
I have stopped taking tamoxifen due to a lengthening list of cumulative side effects after only 3 years on it the drug, and since I stopped taking it (with my onc's approval), I have NOT been constipated since the end of April. It is very weird having daily or regular movements that I don't have to "encourage". Still dealing with cramping and bloating occasionally, but that goes with the territory of having chronic IBS, and I can deal with that.
0 -
bump for those that can't find this----------review from the beginning. So many have offered ideas:)
0 -
Everything you explained makes a lot of sense. Is it better to have a lot of liquids like juicing in the morning? And eating a lot of raw green?
0 -
Dwilli... One things that I have seen help so many people including myself with stomach problems is drinking japanese ionized water.. I can't stress how important it is to properly hydrate your body. As you know we are 75+% water. Our government says we are suppose to have 8 glasses per day. What doesn't make sense tho is if someone who is a vegan and weights 95 pounds suppose to drink the same as a body builder who weighs 250 pounds?. After doing much research I have realized who much alkaline water can improve overall health and energy. Another great thing to do is to Start Juicing... Every morning make sure you take out the juicer and replace your breakfast with a nutrient rich glass of organic green vegetables. Spinach,kale,celery,carrots,chia seeds,avocadoect..
as for the water you should be drinking 1 liter of alkaline micro clustered water for every 33 pounds of body weight per day. I know that sounds difficult and believe me I felt the same way because of what I was used to. What I realized was the bottle water and brita water I was drinking every day was soooooo bad for me. I had no idea, I was shocked to discover this. Since discovering this my life has changed for the better and it is absolutely incredible. Energy came back, my stomach problems went away, sleeping like a baby, and so on.
check out these links to get more information on ways to naturally improve your health. One is for a juicer that is being used in the states to help reverse cancers. The other is a Japanese ionizer which will change anyone for the better.
www.norwalkjuicers.com
www.globalkangensolutions.com0 -
HeaLthetc, we are not here to promote your job, If this sounds insulting , sorry, But please, since you are supporting unknown STUFF. please link it to evidence based research. All forward to this has fallen into accepted known natural based products used over centuries or FDA approved products. I grew up with juicing in the 60's when it was considered quackery, but what you have written creates in me concern.
0 -
I was reading something just yesterday about "the water cure" and it said take your weight in lbs, divide in half and that's how many oz you should drink each day. So 100 lbs is 50 oz. There's lots of foods that are supposed to work but when you are constipated from drugs they don't always work. I was eating nothing but fruit and veggies and nuts and nothing worked except ex-lax. Then I doubled my magnesium and that really worked for me, every day.
0 -
Bump for our friends that our stuck, please read from the beginning, then chose what may work to make you work
0 -
sas: I've been following this thread & can't resist sharing a potential chuckle. I've been constipated most of my life - so was really vigilent getting ready for extensive problems. Turns out after 3 chemo treatments, I only get diarrhea - and boy do I. I resisted treating the first time since I didn't want to reverse the action. By #2 I knew better. Here's the kicker. I now need iron pills - and everybody knows they cause constipation. Not me - more of the "big D". I'll still stay with this thread. Great information and assistance. Thanks for keeping it going.
0 -
Have found a more natural remedy for constipation after surgery with pain meds being the culprit. It's called Dr. Schulzes Intestinal Formula No. 1.
I wouldn't use it during chemo before checking the ingredients with your MO since the herbs might interfere or complicate chemo. I discovered it after chemo.
Peggy
PS. check out the reviews on Amazon to see how it has worked for others!0 -
One of those recent epiphanies for me. Had a craving for oatmeal. Used the 1 minute kind. Now eating it evry day or every other day.
And used Bolax . About every 3rd day, before i restarted using oatmeal. It's primarily senna with some other herbs. Between the two, I'm regular now like I haven't been in decades. I'm still using pain meds and sleepers, so ordinarilly still plugged.
I don't think it's been said before, but maybe it has and I forget. Peggys suggestion about checking with doc(i'll add Pharmacist too). Before using herbals b/c even though they are considered natural, they are a drug. Thanks peggy for making or reminding us of that VERY IMPORTANT point.
0 -
What side effects do people experience when taking Miralax, Senokot-s or even prune juice? My mom is experiencing debilitating belching and feeling of fullness, and since she just started all her meds at the same time (morphine, letrozole, Miralax, Senokot S), we are not sure which one of them is causing the belching/burping/uncomfortable feeling plus extreme constimpation? Aside from the obvious risk of diarrhea, does anyone find that these laxative type products can cause gas/bloating/belching?
0 -
Hi Ladies,
I'm back on this thread.. I started Tamoxifen about 6 weeks ago noticed right away the constipation issue, I was able to keep it under control until now.. Oh my gosh stomach cramps and back pain.. This is worse than chemo.
Any suggestions???
Carla
0 -
Carlads- Ask your doc
, if you can use citrus of magnesia. When your constipation is as bad as you describe, it's putting allot of internal pressure on the colon wall. This can lead to other problems i.e.diverticulosis. 1 bottle should do a fairly good cleanout. 2 bottles would be enough for a colonoscopy prep. Once you see the stool looking like sand, the whole colon's cleaned out. You may not have a bowel movement for several days b/c there's nothing in there. Check with doc about how often to use. Hope this helps sassy0 -
meghar - Sorry this is so late. I see you asked a few days ago. I have GERD and take omeprazole everyday for reflux. When I'm doing chemo, I can drink the prune juice most days but the belching afterward is VERY foul! Ick, so I don't use it on the bad days.
I had been taking Senna-S as recommended by both my MO and my PCP. For me it was doing almost nothing. Not so much gas or bloating as ..... nothing. I have not taken Miralax in years but I don't remember bloating or belching as a side effect. Senna S can cause abdominal cramping - not sure about bloating.
I have to say that each chemo is different and each patient is different. I had bad constipation with T/FAC and got through it with Senna S and a lot of pain and discomfort. This time I am on Ixempra and Xeloda and it is even worse. It's like the chemo just makes my colon shut down for a week or more. The first 3 rounds of IX/X were very painful and uncomfortable. It was like I had a stupid python in my gut that would not move....then when he did, it was awful! I finally (with sassy's help) kept a log of how much senna S I took on which days and which days I had bowel movements. I also charted pain with constipation alongside other pain from chemo. That finally got my doc's attention.
As sassy says above about magnesium citrate, ask your doc. This last chemo round I did one dose of mag citrate the day prior to chemo and a dose the day of chemo to make sure there was nothing that was going to sit in my colon for the week my colon was on vacation. I also ate a low residue diet for that week. After looking at my pain and potty chart at my appointment the morning before chemo, my MO prescribed lactulose and Senna S. Even with the Lactulose and Senna S, it took almost 4 days to have another bowel movement. BUTT (haha, a joke) there was no pain associated with it. A miracle! I have had a lot of bloating with the Lactulose, but that is a side effect that is stated in the pkg insert or maybe on line at dailymeds.org. I've had belching with lactulose also, but not as foul as the prune juice!
Hope this helps someone. I think that the key for me was the chart that I made. It helped me speak the doctor's language in a way that got his attention. PM me if you want more details on that.
If you have poop jokes, post them here!
0 -
The tamoxifen constipated me so bad. The three weeks off of it before surgery were wonderful. After bmx surgery, the pain meds took their toll. The hospital gave,e colace...no relief. I had ought some Emergen-c drink mix to aid in healing after surgery. I drank one and in less than an hour, no more constipation. I will take Vit. C in much lower doses from now on....:-)
0 -
Feb 4, 2012 09:50 PM sas-schatzi wrote:
To all -we are doing GREAT----each one of you have offered a suggestion that worked for you. THAT IS HUGE. Anyone coming to this site may go through so many of the suggestions and they don't work----THEN they come to your suggestion and it works. Yay. So, anyone who thinks they have heard it all and tried all, don't give up. TOO many of us have been through it not to have an idea that works Yeah for Moving things Forward and OUT !!!!!!!!!!!
Just a reminder to read from the beginning if you are new here
0 -
I finally found an herbal formula that works. You'll need to check with onc about the herbs but it is called "Dr. Schulzes intestinal formula number 1. It contains about ten herbs and is gentle. You start with one pill at dinner. If that doesn't work you go to two. You can go to three but I have never had to.
Hugs,
Peggy0 -
This is a lifelong problem for me, even without the meds. Tamoxifen, Fosamax, calcium and biotin definitely have been a challenge. The biotin seems to be working, so I don't want to give it up.
That said, some improvements:
Water, as much as you can drink (hate pushing it all day, but it really makes a difference)
Tea for me is an absolute no-no--I have anti-oxidant sensitivity, and apparently that = constipation in my case
No more than 2 cups of coffee a day
Not mixing sugar, alcohol, and coffee all on the same day (my favorite food groups ; )
New breakthroughs: chia seeds PRESOAKED in morning papaya smoothie. Papaya enzyme is great.
Curamin, a turmeric based pain reliever, also helps.
Magnesium remains my go-to, it is the only sure-fire in my book.
0 -
I know i am lucky don't have the problem at all ..maybe cause gallbladder is out. But i take prescription fish oil, Lovaza, it's for high trigs. But OTC fish oil, even 2 a day, also helps my inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis. I was taking flax seed oil capsule at night time, i could restart it, it's inexpensive, if i need it...As soon as breakfast is over, and i drank my 1 cup of coffee, anbout 30 minutes later, i go, and i am usually done for the day..Which is nice, not having to go to a public bathroom
I have a sensitive stomach, and eating an apple i cannot do, but that is one thing an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
If i was in the hospital, and got pain meds, such as Vicodin, oh boy, then i use 2 stool softerners, maybe twice a day, works for me. Right now if i need a pain pill, i have Norco, doesn't do that to me. But yes anytime, coming home from the hospital, have to have a plan ready to deal with not going!...
0 -
You ladies are awesome!! Thank you so much for all you advice.. Isn't it crazy the things we have to worry about..
Thanks again,
Carla
0 -
The magnesium citrate sounds like something I would like to try! I wonder if its good to do every so often, like once a week drink a bottle. I didn't know that about it looking like sand when you are cleaned out. I want to get cleaaned out til my poop looks like sand!!
0 -
HLB, be sure you check with your doctor before you try a schedule like that.
0 -
I actually didn't know about senna tea... I'll look for it at the grocer's. I've been taking prescription Tylenol for neuralgia type pain due to chemotherapy. I'm afraid I neglected the constipation issue until I realized that about 3 days had passed without any activity in that area. So I began taking a presription senna laxative I had on hand. Within about 12 hours, I was okay again. But, I must say that what happened today (about 24 hours after beginning to take the laxative) was not very gentle. I wonder if the tea enables a bit more controlled, calm resolution. Maybe being prone to irritable bowel issues should be considered when choosing a constipation solution. Thankfully, I decided to stay away from the stool softener. The laxative prescription was plenty.... but now I will definitely look for the tea!
0 -
Christesta, you're right, IBS changes the equation. Pre-chemo I had to be very careful with any laxative. Now - just need a howitzer. Hahaha, not really, but sometimes feels like it!
Hlb, let us know how you do with the mag citrate.
Phyllis0 -
Ferrous sulfate caused me problems. My
gastro doc told me to take psyllium capsules. I take 3 a day and 1 fish oil cap. No more problems!!0 -
What I want to accomplish in this post is to discuss: A. Dangers of using laxatives, and B. Define the different types of laxative's, give some examples, and provide links for more information.
This following link is to the free dictionary. The seven "dangers of laxatives" was taken from the free dictionary, but I lost the direct link. OH WELL. I hope it's not too confusing, but I'm going to edit in my comments in parenthesis and italized print. I am starting with the dangers first, as I clearly would like everyone to realize drugs used to change constipation are NOT without consequences when used improperly.
http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/laxatives
A. Dangers of Laxatives.
1. Laxatives should be used only with the advice of a health care provider. Sassy:(New onset changes of bowel habits should be discussed with doc. Once a cause is found for bowel changes, then follow the plan you and your doc agree to. If you want to change bowel plan--BE SAFE--talk with your doc. If the cause for the constipation is not found prior to taking a drug like a laxative, it may have life threatening consequences. For example, if a bowel obstruction is present and a stimulant/purgative laxative is taken it may lead to a rupture of the intestine. Please, heed this warning
2. Constipation may be a symptom of serious organic illness as well as the result of improper diet, habits, and Sassy(use of other drugs, we know this one very well)
3. Laxatives taken regularly tend to deprive the colon of its natural muscle tone and thus can be the cause of chronic constipation rather than its cure. Sassy(simple straight forward statement)
4. Mineral oil taken regularly interferes with the absorption of certain vitamins, especially those that are fat soluble. Sassy(A,D,E,K.)
5. Purgative salts(saline laxatives) can produce dehydration. Sassy(Dehydration is not seen with use of the recommended dose under usual circumstances. Again supports why you should discuss a plan with your doc)
6. Laxatives that produce bulk may cause stonelike balls (bezoars) to develop. Sassy(Not sure where this author thought bezoar applied here, it DOES NOT. I left it in sequence for anyone reading the original material might not know, that the word bezoar was an incorrect use of the word)
7. A strong cathartic such as castor oil can have fatal results if used when there is nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or other symptoms of appendicitis. It is also dangerous to use during pregnancy. Children cannot use as large dosages or as strong laxatives as adults. Sassy( the thought here is an incomplete list of diagnosis problems. I will list more so that you realize that not all bowel stoppage is related to constipation. List: Stomach emptying problems, small intestinal blockage, colon blockage. Rotation of colon on itself--volvulous, intussuception-like a collapsing telescope, Ileus the wavelike or snakelike movement of the GI tract stops. the term for this wavelike or snakelike movement is peristalsis. The KEY is that Appendicitis is not the only thing that can cause the symptoms described above. As well, castor oil is not the only cathartic that can cause problems
B. Types of laxatives: The following links are from medicine.net. After searching many different threads, I feel medicine.net was the easiet to use. It doesn't however give absolutely complete information. But it does give you a place to start. This is not a complete list of products and this is not meant to be an endorsement or recommendation of any individual product. Many laxatives use a combination of more than one drug to accomplish an evacuation.
1. Bulk-forming laxative: Promotes bowel evacuation by increasing fecal volume. the following link describes how to use them, s.e.'s to watch for, and other percautions. Examples of bulk producing agents are: Psyillium-Metamucil, methylcellulose-Citrucel. polycarbophil-Fiberco, Benefiber.
http://www.medicinenet.com/laxatives_for_constipation/page3.htm
2. Stool softners: Called emollient laxatives, prevent hardening of the feces by adding moisture to the stool. Some examples of stool softners are Docusate sodium, Colace, ducolax.
http://www.medicinenet.com/laxatives_for_constipat...
3. Lubricant laxative: Promotes softening of the stool and facilitates passage of the feces through the intestines by its lubricant effect. Some examples of lubricant products are mineral oil, glycerin, Milk of magnesia. The hyperosmotic laxatives are glycerin, Miralax, Nulytely, Colyte lactulose (Chronulac, Duphalac), all of which act by holding water within the intestine. Lactulose may also increase peristaltic action of the intestine. The following link to medicine.net describes mineral oil and it's probems and percautions.
http://www.medicinenet.com/laxatives_for_constipation/page5.htm#lubricant_laxatives
4. Saline laxative: The active ingredients in saline laxatives are mostly magnesium, sulfate, citrate, and phosphate ions. These ions draw water into the intestines. The additional water softens the stool, increases pressure within the intestines, and increases intestinal contractions resulting in the discharge of softer stool. Fleet Phospho-Soda, milk of magnesia, and magnesium citrate are examples of saline laxatives.
http://www.medicinenet.com/laxatives_for_constipation/page7.htm
5. Stimulant laxative: Induces bowel movements by increasing the contraction of muscles in the intestines, and are effective when used on a short-term basis. Examples of stimulant laxatives include aloe, cascara, senna compounds, bisacodyl, and castor oil. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax, Correctol)
http://www.medicinenet.com/laxatives_for_constipation/page6.htm#stimulant_laxatives
Cautionary note:
1. Enemas and suppositories should never be used in a low immune state or while under care for your cancer without the explicit instruction of your MO.
2. As always consult your doc on any information discussed here.
Please, take the time to read thread from the beginning. So, many have offered great suggestions
Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out shouting "holy crap....what a ride" SAS
0 -
Chrisesta, b/c of your IBS/IBD how you respond to any of the drugs under the laxative class are going to cause your bowels to respond differently then expected. Sorry. Start with the lowest dose of any laxative. Check in on IBS/IBD web sites for suggestions
0 -
BUMP
0 -
I haven't read through all the posts, so I apologize if someone has already mentioned this. I had issues with constipation before cancer due to frequent long distance travel---jumping time zones can mess up your body's routines. But I have had success with acupressure. There are no needles involved, and you can do it yourself. The main points are (1) 1-2 inches below the navel, (2) at the base of the webby part of your hand between the thumb and index finger [NOTE: everything I've read says pregnant women should NOT use this one], (3) just past the elbow crease when you bend your arm and put your hand on your chest, (4) at the base between the big toe and second toe. I try to press and maintain pressure for ten deep breaths at each point two times a day---before I get out of bed in the morning and when I get into bed at night. The schedule is not important, just doing some every day.
Please note that I am not an expert. I got this info from books and tried it on myself. I hope you find it helpful.
0 -
Snorkler, no one has mentioned this here before, and it fits totally b/c we all travel. Even under normal conditions many people complain of constipation associated with leaving home. I put a link on the insomnia thread about resetting the circadian rhythm after air travel. Which would help the GI tract. IF i can locate it, I will add it below. Thanks for adding this
0 -
I finally went through all the posts and found lots of helpful information. Thanks to everyone for keeping this thread active!
I don't think anyone mentioned chicory or dandelion. When these roots are roasted and ground you can make beverages from them. I'm not exactly sure how they work; I think they stimulate the liver which gets the whole digestive tract going. Also, since everything we ingest (including medications) is processed by the liver, it makes sense to keep it in good shape.
In other countries these products are more common. Here in the US I found a coffee substitute called Pero in one of the local supermarkets; it is a mix of roasted grains plus chicory. It is water soluble so can be easily added to regular coffee if you're not crazy about the taste. The dandelion root tea I got from drugstore.com. It has a mild, almost nutty flavor. There is a coffee substitue called Dandyblend that has both chicory and dandelion. When I go through what I've bought already I'll probably try it.
One last thing before I forget: fresh ginger. I add a nickel-size piece to either the dandelion tea or regular black tea once or twice a day. You can also just pour hot water over it with a squirt of lemon and/or lime juice. It's supposed to be good for the digestive system in general. Best of luck to everyone!
0 -
A pebble dropping in water creates and untold wave.
0 -
Thanks for all of the good advice.
0 -
Try Miralax. I use unflavored. By second day, able to poop. Other meds for producing bm make me very nauseas. Good luck. Drink LOTS of water. 64 oz.
0 -
I'm starting this post with a link back to another post that I wrote about my Pain and Poop Chart. http://community.breastcancer.org/topic_post?forum_id=6&id=781867&page=9 I also want to say that I tried MANY of the suggestions on this thread and none of them worked during my chemo weeks. I'm not saying that they aren't good or reasonable normally, just that they didn't work for me and that's why I was in a mess.
What I did not write about was the fact that the constipation may have been affecting my WBC. I had not been able to finish a whole round of my oral Xeloda (I also get Ixempra by infusion) since the very first round in April because my WBC would always tank. Even the first round I had to have neupogen shots. This was coupled with severe pain and severe constipation.
On Round 4 of 6, my MO put me on a Fentanyl pain patch and prescribed a combination of Lactulose and Senna S for the constipation. You can see the prep that I did for that round in the link above. The results were kind of amazing! I didn't automatically get regular bowel movements. (that may NEVER happen) But I did not have hard, dry, very painful stool that could have been causing microtears in the lining of my bowel and rectum.
There is evidence that microtears can cause the body to send white cells there to stem infection in the area. I believe that the microtears and my body trying to prevent infection was part of the problem with my low WBC during chemo. The combination of microtears and chemo dropped my counts too low.
I had labs the week after infusion (when I also began oral Xeloda). Counts were down and I had one neupogen shot. Stopped the Xeloda. Had labs one week later and counts were up - no neupogen and started 2 more weeks of Xeloda at a reduced dose. I was skeptical that my counts would be good enough after 2 weeks of Xeloda to do the next infusion but was hopeful since the Lactulose/Senna S combo seemed to be working.
Round 5 of 6 rounds of Xeloda/Ixempra - I had a dose of mag citrate 2 days before chemo (Sunday) since it takes a long time to work in me, to be sure that my colon was reasonably cleaned out.
Had labs the day before chemo (Monday) and they were NORMAL!! For the first time since starting chemo. And this is after two full weeks of Xeloda. I had chemo the next day (Tuesday) and for the first time ever since starting chemo I had a bowel movement on chemo day. Then again on Wednesday.
All of that is to say that, in my opinion, we should not discount the role that pooping plays in our treatment and health. They are not two separate things, they are intricately interrelated. I know that some of the success with my WBC is due to lowering the dose of Xeloda, but I also know that some of the success is due to getting my colon working again. Poop Power!
Another note: some chemotherapy drugs, like Ixempra, are metabolized and excreted in the feces. There can be a small portion of the drug that is NOT metabolized and is excreted in the feces. If the feces are hanging around in your colon for 3 - 5 days, it is not a GOOD thing. I found this information on dailymeds.org that sassy recommends.
I hope you were able to slog through this long post and that there is something in here that might help you during your treatment.
0 -
bump
0 -
Bump
0 -
To all, we all have discussed chemo/ anethesia brain. We now can call it anesthesia/chemo/drug brain. This article is in AARP magazine. It discusses the drug classifications that can cause memory loss. It describes why each drug class can cause memory loss. It gives specific names of drugs. It gives alternative drugs that can be substituted. I would suggest reviewing it with your prescribing doc if you have concerns regarding any of your meds. I also suggest you put it in your favorite places on your computer. Also, printing it off for future referrence if you have a printer. Please, pass this on to other BCO friends, friends etc.
sassywww.aarp.org/health/brain-heal...
Haven't been here much in alongggggg time, but this artcle is a MUST SHARE type with those I care about
0 -
BUMP
0 -
Not sure if this has been mentioned- but blackstrap molasses helped me 100% when it came to my hemmeroids and the consitpation that happened. I wrote a blog post about my experience if no one minds that I post it. Be advised it is not suitable for work or more sensitive dispositions. http://www.super-crush.com/blahblahblah/?p=153
0 -
JWoo - blackstrap molasses helped me too!! I was skeptical since I'm not a folksy remedy type person, but after one spoonful I felt reduction in less than a day. I only had to do a spoonful a day for about a week before they went away. Now I do Miralax to keep me regular but at least I don't have to deal with the hemorrhoids anymore!
0 -
Cougarlicious-
It was a lifesaver for sure! I actually stopped taking anything else after about a week. No issues at all with constipation anymore and I really think it is mostly the molasses that is doing it. Sometimes grandma really does know best and those old folk remedies are the best thing! (Obviously checking with all your doctors first before proceeding of course.)
It probably helps that I am a vegetarian (though not having FRESH veg to eat has been a huge part of the problem and also just torture for someone that loves crunchy veg) but I am ovo/lacto, with a huge love of cheese and still eat plenty of it.
Meat is digested mostly by the bacteria that used to live in your intestines, so, if anyone is a big meat eater, maybe cut down a little to see if that helps?
I do drink a smoothie a few times a week with prune juice and unsweetened Bulgarian yogurt in the mix, so that is helpful as well.
Anyhow- I hope this info might help someone, and best of health, luck and love to everyone!
0 -
I have never had any luck with laxative find a right, um, balance. Once I started adding Chia seed in my diet I really never had a problem. Adding a heaping tsp to a 10-12 oz smooth had the desired effect and I didn't feel nervous about when it would hit
0 -
Now almost to my last chemo T/C. My most hideous constipation happened when I had to take narcotics for surgical pain due to a bad staph infection. That was solved with Colace and Benefiber.
Now how I handle the big C is tons of hydration, 2 teaspoons of benefiber in my morning coffee, a Colace, stewed prunes (I cook a lb with a half cup of water on low with one Equal and a bit of cinnamon; about a half hour tip a nice sauce forms, if it gets sticky during cooking at a bit add a little water). Just 4 prunes a day is fine. I might add an Activate light yogurt. The walk my dog to get things moving literally. Works great!
,0 -
Does anybody else have an oncologist that pushes Miralax? Mine told me to start taking it daily, and then told me, "Don't stop taking it!" She said that people have terrible problems with obstruction when they stop it. She said, "It really is a miracle laxative." But I'm thinking, how miraculous is it if people become dependent on it? Is anybody else getting this advice from their doctor? Basically, she's telling me to take it for the rest of my life.
0 -
Got to warn you all, particularly stride. Now the silly T/C regimen has me on the other spectrum, diarrhea. For that reason I would advise more of a wait and see before you load up on everything, particularly a daily laxative. Now I'm taking Imodium and I have never had this problem before! Ugh.
0 -
It depends on if you get constipated. I was severely constipated and my MO said to take Colace. It didn't really help that much so she added Miralax daily along with the Colace. It has helped so much! I know that the Taxol causes my constipation so I see nothing wrong with needing the Miralax. We all need different things to help with the side effects of the various drugs we're on so if I get "addicted" to Miralax at this time in my life so be it. However, I'd wait if I were you just in case you have the opposite problem because some people do. Good luck and hoping your chemo gives you no SEs.
0 -
Colace did nothing for me either, my OB recommended I try Miralax, saying it was the best aid to constipation out there. And so far she's right! But I don't plan on taking it the rest of my life, just through chemo as I never had constipation issues until now.
0 -
Bump
0 -
bump0
-
Recently read the October issue of Life Extension magazine which has an article about constipation which recommends effervescent vitamin c and magnesium crystals - saying that fiber/bulk doesn't work for many people.
http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2013/oct2013_Immediate-Relief_01.htm0 -
Bump---I watch this thread and bump every few days to keep it active. Thanks to all that post. All your posts are helping others in a very relieving way0 -
Doc has me eating pears. Dried are more effective and dont make me as gassy as prunes.0 -
Pears also worked for me, in addition to cooling my tongue and and one of a very few foods that relieved the metal mouth taste.0 -
half a cap of miralax a day and 3 prunes0 -
I found an herbal supplement that helped after surgery (but was not allowed during treatment (chemo). It's called Dr. Schulzes Intestinal Formula Number 1. You can get it on Amazon. Works more gently than most laxatives but you have to experiment with how many pills are right for you personally.
Hope this helps someone here.
Hugs,
Peggy0 -
I live on Miralax and Ducolax. The maximum dosage of both each day. I made a mistake of skipping the Miralax for a couple of days and didn't go for three days...I will never do that again.0 -
bump0 -
bump
0 -
Well, shit. I have nothing to add, other than to say this is a pretty shitty conversation yall are having. : )0 -
Doctor gave me a recipe
Fruit Paste Recipe
DOSE: 1-2 tablespoons per day
1 pound prunes
1 pound raisins-pitted
1 pound figs
4 oz senna tea
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup lemon juice
Prepare tea using about 2 1/2 cups boiled water. Steep 5 minutes.
Strain tea to remove tea leaves and add only 1 pint tea to a large pot, then add fruit. Boil fruit and tea for 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and add sugar & lemon juice. Allow to cool.
Use mixer or food processor to blend fruit mixture into smooth paste.
Place in plastic container and place in freezer.
Remove what you need each day, paste doesn't freeze solid.
Spread it on toast, eat off a spoon or add hot water and make a drink.
Senna BARS
In a food processer mix the following ingredients:
12 oz. raisins
12 oz. dates
12 oz. prunes
8 oz. figs
2 oz. senna leaves or ground senna (in health food stores).
Spread in a greased 8"x12" pan and press to 1" deep. Top with graham cracker crumbs. Cut into 1 inch by 1 inch bars and they can be frozen.
Try 1 bar a day to start. May be able to reduce to 1/2 bar later on.
Use both of the recipes only on approval of a physician.0 -
Foley, some recipe, sounds good.
Ziggypop, OMG you get this thread. Please, please, become a routine bumper, and add what ever pops out of your trunk as a thought. It so eases the pain of whatever isn't passing. A poop or pun here or there is a mercy we pray for
0 -
Bumping for a better go
sassy0 -
Ok sassy - on that note I'll go take a Colace and drink some prune juice.
0 -
So two months and two weeks out of chemo. Also through with rads. Why am I still singing the constipation blues?
0 -
Lisa--chemo/ rads alters the normal bacteria flora of the colon. Miralax and other drugs help with the constipation problem, but don't correct it. Please, study Probiotics.
In my worst case scenario, I found when I used them to re-establish normal flora I had to use the powder by the tablespoon, but this was with an oral thrush and colon problem. My situation was unresponsive to magic mouthwash and twice a day diflucan 100mg for two weeks. Doc finally said Probiotics.
I've been a believer in probiotics since the 70's. The name probiotics wasn't coined until 1995. Before that we just called them good bacteria.
Please, discuss this with your docs /pharmacist, and nutritionist. Chemo alters our immune response. Probiotics are good bacteria necessary for normal colon , mouth bacteria, Gastrointestinal function. BUT, nonetheless, they are bacteria. If you can please, read from the beginning. Many members have offered pearls of ideas. Good Luck sassy
0 -
Minus two--------cute, other people talk Champagne, a good Vodka, A smooth scotch, or fragrant wine. We talk Colace, prunes, miralax, magnesium citrate, appricots , and oatmeal. Then we celebrate the passing Sheesh.
0 -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cNRkQJcnUk
A Christmas song for all my crappy friends. Sing it with me now..
there were, five, five, constipated men in the bible...
0 -
Ziggy I'm sensing that this is an outlet for you LOL. I'll stand aside. Those elephant poops could be a drowner.
BTW "Hey Nunnie Nunnie" will be added to my late night viewing along with Jeff Dunham.
0 -
Ziggy - great laugh for the day. Thanks.
Sassy - so it looks like we'll be planning a similar menu for toasting on new years eve. But truly - I used to drink Gin & tonic before chemo. The gin really did keep me regular. Juniper berries? I'd forgotten that & maybe need to add that back into my diet - of course in moderation.
0 -
ziglet - too funny! I'll be singing that song on the way to the toiletten - "And Eve passed an apple" At least it wasn't a bowling ball!
Phyllo
0 -
Sassy I had a college professor (biology) who insisted I take lactobacillus caps from the pharmacy (1973). I think he thought and probably rightly the cause was stress related and the lacto. would help. Refrigerated then and I think just called that. Told me it would help my cold sores. Lol. Don't know that it did but funny how things of old become mainstream now.
I've been trying to remember my 5 prunes a day for constipation and bone health. I believe I have a box now that lists for bone health on the panel.
I think I may be singing about constipated Biblical men while doing housecleaning shortly. DH came up to see what I was laughing about.
0 -
Prunes, yes, must remember prunes.
Lmg HI nice to see you. No own gave it a name---then a n article was published in1995, Cool. Pro-promotes, anti-against. works well together.
LISA Lactobacillus colonizes the small intestine. Bifidus and the rest colonizes the large intestine. A combo should be considered to cover all. I only buy refrigerated stock. But the market is producing non-refrigerated product.
0 -
Ziggypop, great video, I will go back & watch some more of there's when time allows...
Any Catholics here ? Has anyone seen " Late night Cathetisim " it is a fantastic play, spoof on Catholics, in a respectful way, done by nuns ( actresses ) it plays in Seattle. I am not a Catholic, but DH is.....
Back to the topic, I did start back on my probiotics...should buy some prunes....not my fav...I do eat raw carrots daily, do they count?
Also, can someone tell me what Magic Mouthwash is?
Golf girl
0 -
Golf girl Combo drug tree items used for thrush. It a swish(hold) and swallow thingy liquid.
EEWWWWWWHHHHHHHH carrots---DD had us drink carrot & celery juice every morning. Sometimes there were surprises like beets, apple, the worst onion.
0 -
HoleinOne - The magic mouthwash I was prescribed is a specially compounded Rx of liquids - lidocane, nystatin & benedryl. I've heard of different combos on other threads. Luckily I didn't have to use it much since I really didn't like my lips going numb from the lidocane.
0 -
Bumping
0 -
Bump
0 -
Got off my pain med and now I'm the other way.. darn darn darn.
0 -
Foley, It'll take awhile for your digestive track to figure things out. Probiotics can help, check with doc before using
sassy0 -
BUMP
0 -
Bump
0 -
bump
0 -
SAS - My last chemo was 12/11 & I haven't taken any meds except my normal vitamin supplements since then. Now all of a sudden I'm having BIG C problems. Seems if i don't take a Collace every couple of days for a couple of days, the stools are so big & hard I feel like I'm being split in two. (sorry for the graphic - TMI, but...) Drinking prune juice at least 2 days a week too. I'm not eating that much yet since my taste is still off - but I'm sure confused what might be causing this constipation. BTW - all through both sets of chemos, I had Big D instead of Big C. Go figure. The Collace is from my first surgery in 2011 since I know anesthesia causes me problems, but I hate to keep taking it. Any thoughts?
THIS IS A WONDERFUL THREAD. Glad you keep bumping.
0 -
OH MY Minus Two I'm so sorry , I haven't been watching. God lord I hope you didn't rupture something.
First thoughts, check in with your doc...reason you have had a new onset change. I'll think or try to think of what to ask and plan. But I do think wityh any new onset change the safe practice is a doc check in. In this case if you have a GI doc that would be good. But your PCP is good to.I would go first to my PCP, but I also call her Saint PCP. I don't necessarily think MO's are good for this b/c they may not cover all the basics. I'll type this so you can cut and paste or print and fill in the answers to take with you for doc visit
History of present problem: New onset constipation
When did it start?
Description of stools ?
How often? How many days between stools?
Abdominal Pain with stools?
How much liquid do you drink a day?(take a couple of days and actually measure)
Location of pain?
Does pain in abdomen remain after stools?
What cause you to finely evacuate? (you've continued taking colace, but if you don't take it you have large hard stools--did I get that right?)
other things used to promote evacuation?(prunes)
Physical description of stools?
Change in medications?when?what?
Pain meds? Change? How many per day?
Talk to PCP about following plan:
1. Miralax daily.
2.Stewed prunes/apricots warm with some lemon in am..
3.Probiotics-tsp to a tablespoon a day for a week.
4. Colace PRN
5. Emergency plan: meaning what do you do if your regular plan isn't working and you need to poop.
6. Develop a bowel retraining plan: basically using the 1-4 working it through overtime until your bowel functions again on it's own.
This plan is a mix of recommendation from the gastroenterology guidelines--miralax daily. Stewed prunes or apricots-- common SUCCESSFUL method here. Warm water and lemon another common plan----so if you put them together it may make it all come out in the end very smoothly and easily
Probiotics, something may have disrupted the good bacteria that you aren't aware of. Colace the common doc go to med, but you want to wean away from all drugs eventually.Have an emergency plan i.e. no BM in ____days what can you use? My go to drug is a bottle of magnesium citrate, but the aftermath is the squirts for a few days. Sometimes unpredictable. For me severe constipation can occur after I've used oxy for a couple of days when I have a bone/joint/ muscle flare.
The key here is you 've involved your doc. Reread the first page on my posts about diverticulosis/itis. The doc is going to ask questions to assure you haven't got something going on. You said the thread is wonderful---tells me you've read it. Many wonderful ideas here. If there's something from here you like, add it to the plan above.
What I like about walking into the doc's office with a plan, is it causes them to focus on what you are saying, They can see it in writing, this further focuses their attention. They then can say yay or nay to each item.
You're then able to leave the office with a clear plan with all the bases covered. I'll cut and paste this to you in a PM. If you need me in the future and I haven't responded, please, PM.
0 -
Thanks SAS. I re-read the first page. Oh, I miss Apple. I KNOW I'm not getting enough fluids. I forced them to give me a full litter today at the infusion center before they started Herceptin. I'm seeing a new PCP/Internal Med doc on Monday so I'll keep up Colace until then. I have your list of questions printed.
0 -
Minus Two, glad the post and PM helped. You have identified a major element in function of the colon. Liquid. So, much of what occurs with constipation can start with a change in moisture of the stool. Hmmmmmm I write about such fascinating things LOL. So if you will bear with me, I'll write a few more thoughts.
I'm delighted. I checked back on the first page. The very thoughts I was thinking of to write to you, were there YAY. I don't have to think too hard(pun) to describe how important liquid is to the smooth workings (pun) of the colon. I'm cutting and pasting those thought to here. If I have any new thoughts I'll bold them or add a note at the bottom.
Pg1---"Backing up for a moment-----the large colon has several functions. One is related to the absorption of some nutrients, but that is not cogent to this conversation-------so I will bypass it.
The colon stores stool and reabsorbs water. Stool exits the small intestine on the right side lower quadrant, at that point it is the consistency of sand. It then travels up the right side across the top part of the abdomen , then goes down the left side, The last portion of the large colon is called the sigmoid colon. It generally has a shape that could be described as a "s". In truth, it's shaped differently to a degree in each of us. As the stool moves along this path more water is absorbed from it. By the time it reaches the sigmoid colon it becomes formed.
If the core body lacks enough water, it draws more fluid out of the stool. In this case then the stool that reaches the last part of the colon will be very dry-------constipated------hard. The muscles of the colon wall have a very hard time pushing it forward. If this occurs the stool in the rectal vault-the portion just above the anus becomes very hard and difficult to pass. and painful. They look like little hard rocks. In pushing this hard stool out, the pressure causes the blood vessels to dilate. These dilated blood vessels are called hemorrhoids.
They are analogous to varicose veins of the legs or esophageal varices of the esophagus, or aneurysms.The point being when blood vessels in the body are put under too much pressure in the body , they will dilate. Eventually they will burst and bleeding will occur. The larger the blood vessel when it bursts the greater the bleeding.
The needs of the body for fluids are dependent on climate to a great degree. Each individual has a different need. Your doc and reading will describe range. 8-12 oz glasses a day. But again each body is different. Plus there may be other conditions that can influence how much you can drink i.e heart and kidney disease.
Using two supplements can work to your advantage and also promote health of the rest of the body. Omega 3 OIL either Flaxseed or fish. Buy a good brand from a healthfood store. Some brands should never be exposed to heat and need refrigeration. I would never buy off the super market shelf. The second is superdohilous -it has acidopilous and multiple other strains of normal colon bacteria. The quality again is based on where you buy it. Of course discuss this with your doc.
SO, the plan to train the colon:
1.In the morning allow enough time to take a proper poop. That may mean adding ten to 15 minutes to your morning routine.
2 Immediately upon awakening drink the warm water 8 -16 oz's. That will begin the process that gets the trained colon to be prepared to function within a short time. Continue with usual routine shower / shave etc. As soon as the colon signals it's ready to go. Don't delay, go. If you delay the body starts to reabsorb that water from the stool at the end colon. Too much of a delay can lead to constipation.
3. Keep the colon healthy by eating between 25-35 grams of fiber a day-average 30gms.The amount needed is being changed by science in these last few years, so, don't be surprised when you read different numbers. General Mills Fiber One has the highest cereal fiber content in the smallest amont of food . I swear they stole my phrase taste like cardboard. "No longer tastes like cardboard". Definitely has improved over last few years. If you started off each day with a 1/3 bowl you can meet a 1/3 of the days requirements. The average American only gets 12-13 gms of fiber a day.
4 Drink enough fluids otherwise you will become constipated. 8-12 glasses a day.
5 Consider adding omega 3 (flax or fish) and acidophilous to diet(more than what yogurt offers) which colonizes the last portion of the small intestine, and bifidius and many more colonizes the large intestine. Superdophilous is a probiotic that includes many of the good bacteria. Should be purchased through a reputable nutritional store. There is still much debate about Probiotics. If you wish to google it, please, use the following search term "Evidence based researech probiotics".
6 Be aware of the things that alter bowel function------PAIN meds, alcohol, antibiotics, other prescription meds. Dehydration. Illness. Overuse of antibiotics. Some medications can affect the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. This means it slows down or speeds up the way the muscular layer of the GI tract works. Other drugs kill off the good bacteria of the GI tract.
This covers the basics, great topic eh?
ADDITION TODAY 2/72014: A bit repetitive LOL, but I am consistent.
0 -
Minus Two: I have posted this last paragraph on multiple other threads. , please, put the link in your storage area. For you, I would suggest studying all your meds before your visit with your new doc Monday. Concentrating on the gastrointestinal affect for each drug. In your case Herceptin. Also, take a look at Colace.
One thing that I've learned about drugs over time is------just when you think you know it all about a drug, re-look at it when something changes. Something that may not have meant much in a previous reading may jump out at you b/c of the new change
In case you don't have this link. It's a drug site that is great even though it was done by the government. Why is it GREAT! 1. after putting the drug name in the search box and the list is pulled up,the first drug manufacturer is the one that originated the drug. 2. importance---all the pre-approval clinical trial documentation is there 3. all post marketing data is there 4. hyperlinks throughout to connect within the report for easy referencing between topics.
0 -
Minus Two-----------I miss Apple too, when I read older post areas and see her smiling face, she brings back so many happy memories of the great lady she was.
0 -
SAS - the radiation oncologist today approved adding back in Omega 3. Hooray. I've been w/o it since last March since the MO said to cut for chemo. In addition to colon & bowels, it sure makes my knees bend easier. No antioxidants during rads so no Vit. E, but I'll settle for the fish oil for now.
I'm not in "dire straights". One Colace a day is keeping me soft enough for government work. Actually it reverted back the other way tonight. I'll post here too that before cancer, the juniper berries in the Gin & Tonics I drank always did a wonderful job of keeping me regular. Regular for me for 50/60/70 years was always one bowel movement every two or three days. I've never been a 'once a day' girl, but not for lack of my Mother's nagging.
You're right about the water. I really need to start concentrating on that since I'm starting radiation severely under weight & already dehydrated.
I'll look into the acidophilous. Thanks for all the posts. They're so helpful
0 -
MinusTwo, I had horrible C when I was on chemo. I actually ended up in the ER with a bowel impaction. They prescribed something called GoLightly which really cleaned out my bowels. Before that I was taking two collace, senna and prunes everyday. After the impaction I started eating fiber one cereal with a glass of plum smart every morning. I also try to have a pear everyday and drink lots of water. Made all the difference for me. I know everyone is different, but I was able to get off of the colace and senna. After awhile those things just didn't work for me. Good luck, I hope it gets better for you.
0 -
SDB's I think you'll get a laugh out of this. Back in the 90's I had a bowel problem presenting symptoms constipation and pain left side. I worked in a center that had some great GI doc's. Was scheduled for colonoscopy. The clean out was "so much fun" Pain left, but we proceeded with scope.
But the experience made me think. I asked my Gi doc if a study had ever been done to evaluate how many patients with the same presenting symptoms, had all symptoms disappear after go-lightly. He just smiled---no answer. I pondered. My conclusion was "if a high percentage of patients had all symptoms disappear after go-lightly , and there was a high percentage of these same patients that had negative scopes, would a reasonable safe first approach be to simply use go-lightly as a first intervention without a scope, and monitor progress" Study would include--hemacults on stool and evaluating and adjusting for risk factors and age. Post go-lightly adjust diet/fluids, and re-establish normal bacterial flora with probiotics.
I then realized if that approach was taken the reduction of scopes could likely be substantially reduced.
Also, if you look at the different historical cultural practices of many societies, there was a use of "something" in the spring and fall to clean the colon----Interesting? USA as a cultural group did this up till about the 60-'s. Then it essentially stopped. It was carried on by smaller ethnic groups , but overall it was something no longer done.
From then on I talked my GI doc into giving me go-lightly once a year for myself, DH, DS. I voluntarily took it. DH and DS thought I was killing them.
0 -
Go-lightly counterparts are NU-lytely, and Tri-lytley. My phrase for them is go-lotley. They are covered by insurance for specific reasons only. My thing of the yearly clear out had to stop b/c insurance wouldn't cover it b/c it didn't meet their criteria for use. But with a script they can be purchased. $45-60$. An alternative that is inexpensive is magnesium citrate. 2-4$ a bottle have found though that I do have squirts for a few days after mag citrate.. BUT when I choose to use it, it's b/c the constipation is threatening the pre-existing diverticulosis to act up.
With the go-lytlley nu & tri,, I have NOT experienced the after squirts Keep in mind if you use these products you won't have a BM for several days -----b/c there's no stool in the system
0 -
sas, Actually I think you may be on to something there. Ten years ago I had a colostomy and a reversal. Since then I've always had a hardening around where they sewed up the colostomy. I was told by my doctors that it was just scar tissue left over from the surgery. After taking the GoLightly it went away. I notice it slowly coming back, although not as bad. It really was unbelievable how well it worked. Interesting assessment.
Edit: just saw your Go-alotly. Hahaha - I said the same thing - also Go-Quickly. Great minds!
0 -
SDB If you do the go/nu or tri let me know what you think of the outcome LOL. Love how this subject is so easy to make a double entendre about. Seriously, though the go/nu/tri is so superior to mag it's amazing. I would be doing it today. The whole system functions better for months and months. I figured what it helped in doing was wipe any negative over growth of bad bacteria. No proof, but if something feels so good and functions so much better-----somethings different.
0 -
hahaha - good one! I think a once a year cleaning is an excellent idea. Kinda like cleaning out our closets.
0 -
I have never had chemo, have a system that only functions when my schedule is regular and all the stars align. Given that I work full time, in a job where I just can't leave to use the bathroom, I find my constipation problems worsening. Ironic as for almost 30 years I never had a problem due to multiple cases of amoebic dysentery and giardiasis when I was in the Peace Corps. Colace is not working, prunes no longer work,I take probiotics, eat lots of fiber and only drink water. Off to pick up some Miralax, dried pears and senna tea!
0 -
EXBR---HOLY CHIT! those are some bad bugs---worse that having to watch "Married with Children" every morning with the new BF. Bad joke. Not what you signed up for when you listened to JFK's speech.
Exbr, we know each other from other threads. I know you are very knowledgeable and proactive RE: your health. Knowing you I would guess that b/c of the change you've been evaluated by your doc, in particular, Gastroentrologist. For others reading new onset changes should always be evaluated by your doc.
Exbr:The only thing in your plan that's not working is really not part of your plan. Evacuating your colon when it signals, not when the job does. In colon retraining which complete methods can be found on the net. Two key components are necessary : 1. recognition of the signals that the colon is ready to evacuate and 2. responding to the signal by having a bowel movement. If the signals to evacuate are ignored over time things don't signal well. Too simplistic and okay, or not making sense?
Work isn't cooperating,...................Chit, I hate when that happens. It's Like Oliver Twist.
Look at spinal cord injured bowel training programs. This is a shot in the dark. The routines are generally done every three days. Particularly, if daily caretakers aren't involved. A CNA goes in inserts the suppositories, leaves for a couple other calls, then returns and completes the routine of stool removal.
My thought being that you could pick apart this type of program and see what you can apply to yourself.
This again supports why the GI doc eval. You are describing a gastric motility problem versus other i.e obstruction. Is the motility problem a primary cause i.e nerve, or 2ndary timing.
0 -
re: colonsopies - and a more conservative approach.... colonoscopes are hard to clean: http://www.cnbc.com/id/100798338 and in fact can spread disease from one patient to another.... also I know someone who had a perforated colon and peritonitis and nearly died from one.... a fecal occult blood test can detect 70-80% of cancers, and has no risk.....
0 -
boy can i relate
0 -
Colace 100mg 2 tabs twice a day and senokot 2 tabs twice a day. Neither one will your body become dependent on. Colace brings water from the bowel into the stool to keep it soft. You must drink a full glass of water when you take the pills. The senna is a natural vegetable laxative that will not cause cramping.
0 -
SDB--------CONGRATULATIONS AND MANY MORE PASSINGS IN YOUR FUTURE
0 -
I was under the impression that one could become dependent on senna. Sas?
0 -
Flavia--------How I respond---dunno. The article states the problem correctly. As one of my duties in a surgery center that also did scopes and many other procedures, was to monitor the patient under IV Conscious Sedation. A qualified nurse needs to be on that side of the table. The person assisting the doc with the scope on the other side of the table can be a RN, LPN, or GI technician. I was always very happy that I didn't need to learn that side of the table. Actually, it was the only job in the building that I didn't do.
Not just anyone can assist the doc or clean the scopes. The training is extensive. The responsibility is taken very seriously.
There is risk. Everything has risk. It would take a textbook of time writing here for me to explain. I'm staring at the computer hoping for words to come forth out of my fingertips that can help all understand that while the article states the risk, depending on hemacults to be anywhere near the usefullness of a colonoscopy is risking your life. By the time you have a positive fecal sample for blood, the cancer may be to advanced to do anything or must be treated with surgery/chemo/radiation.
Yes, fecal stool samples can detect 70-80% of the cancers, but again it's because the cancer is much further in it's growth. What the hemacult is testing is for blood. By the time a lesion causes blood, there has been something that caused enough tissue disruption to allow blood cells to mix with stool and be evacuated.
A scope can catch a growth in the earliest stage, where cutting it off is simple like a skin lesion, and that tissue/lesion is NOT considered cancerous.
But if left to grow quietly , uninterrupted because it can't be seen, then one day this noncancerous lesion/growth crosses the line in it's cellular growing and becomes cancer.
0 -
EX working the problem check back for my answer. I have an answer, but searching for evidence based resaerch
While I'm gathering some info to complete my thoughts, please read my post on page 10 re:laxatives
Starting to construct an answer please be patient:
YOOHOO HERE I AM---THERE ARE 328 EVIDENCE BASED CONSTIPATION ARTICLES IN PUB MED. i'VE GOT THROUGH 60 SOME. i'M TIRED OF READING ABOUT POOPING AND LAXATIVES. MY LEGS ARE SWOLLEN AND MY SWEETIE IS HOME. i WILL REVISIT THE SUBJECT SOON.
I HAVE FOUND ARTICLES THAT SAY YES AND NO TO THE QUESTION. SO, MANY MORE ARTICLES NEED TO BE LOOKED AT. FOR THOSE NOT USED TO SEARCHING , NOT UNCOMMON TO LOOK AT 100-200 ABSTRACTS. THEN NARROWING IT DOWN TO 20-25 BEST. THEN LOOKING AT THOSE TO SEE WHAT THE PROS AND CONS ARE ON THE QUESTION. ANYONE BASING IT B/C THEIR DOC SAID SO CAN DO THAT, BUT....................
I HAVE BEEN READING FOR HOURS AND i HAVE THREE OUT OF 60 SOME ABSTRACTS THAT I COPIED HERE. I DID HOWEVER BREAK TO LET THE DOGS RUN BY THE FARM SO THEY COULD POOP.
J Clin Gastroenterol. 2003 May-Jun;36(5):386-9.
Is chronic use of stimulant laxatives harmful to the colon?
Author information
Abstract
Although stimulant laxatives cause structural damage to surface epithelial cells that is of uncertain functional significance, there is no convincing evidence that their chronic use causes structural or functional impairment of enteric nerves or intestinal smooth muscle. Nor are there reliable data to link chronic use of stimulant laxatives to colorectal cancer and other tumors. The risks of laxative abuse have been overemphasized, and this has minimized their rational use by physicians. Stimulant laxatives may be used chronically when patients fail to respond adequately to bulk or osmotic laxatives alone. These can be combined with bulk or osmotic laxatives in sufficient amounts to soften the stool, or they can be used alone, according to clinical circumstances. The dose of such agents should be titrated to effect. Bisacodyl may be used if anthraquinone laxatives are unsatisfactory.
- PMID:
- 12702977
- [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
-
J Clin Gastroenterol. 1998 Jun;26(4):283-6.
Alterations in colonic anatomy induced by chronic stimulant laxatives: the cathartic colon revisited.
Joo JS, Ehrenpreis ED, Gonzalez L, Kaye M, Breno S, Wexner SD, Zaitman D, Secrest K.
Author information
Abstract
Cathartic colon is a historic term for the anatomic alteration of the colon secondary to chronic stimulant laxative use. Because some have questioned whether this is a real entity, we investigated changes occurring on barium enema in patients ingesting stimulant laxatives. Our study consisted of two parts. In part 1, a retrospective review of consecutive barium enemas performed on two groups of patients with chronic constipation (group 1, stimulant laxative use [n=29]; group 2, no stimulant laxative use [n=26]) was presented to a radiologist who was blinded to the patient group. A data sheet containing classic descriptions of cathartic colon was completed for each study. Chronic stimulant laxative use was defined as stimulant laxative ingestion more than three times per week for 1 year or longer. To confirm the findings of the retrospective study, 18 consecutive patients who were chronic stimulant laxative users underwent barium enema examination, and data sheets for cathartic colon were completed by another radiologist (part 2). Colonic redundancy (group 1, 34.5%; group 2, 19.2%) and dilatation (group 1, 44.8%; group 2, 23.1%) were frequent radiographic findings in both patient groups and were not significantly different in the two groups. Loss of haustral folds, however, was a common finding in group 1 (27.6%) but was not seen in group 2 (p < 0.005). Loss of haustral markings occurred in 15 (40.5%) of the total stimulant laxative users in the two parts of the study and was seen in the left colon of 6 (40%) patients, in the right colon of 2 (13.3%) patients, in the transverse colon of 5 (33.3%) patients, and in the entire colon of 2 (13.3%) patients. Loss of haustra was seen in patients chronically ingesting bisacodyl, phenolpthalein, senna, and casanthranol. We conclude that long-term stimulant laxative use results in anatomic changes in the colon characterized by loss of haustral folds, a finding that suggests neuronal injury or damage to colonic longitudinal musculature caused by these agents.
- PMID:
- 9649012
- [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
------------------------------------------------------------
-
Am J Hosp Pharm. 1977 Mar;34(3):291-300.
Use and abuse of laxatives.
Abstract
Colon physiology, the causes of constipation, an approach to management of constipation, and the features of various laxatives are reviewed. The categories of individual agents discussed include the bulk-forming laxatives, stimulant cathartics, saline laxatives, hyperosmotic laxatives, surfactant laxatives, emollient laxatives, enemas and suppositories. Dietary change and attention to proper bowel habits are frequently the only therapy necessary for the treatment of constipation. When laxative intervention is necessary, one of the milder agents should be employed over a short period of time. The chronic abuse of stimulant cathartics, often deeply rooted in family or ethnic traditions, is a significant problem and difficult to treat.
- PMID:
- 324272
- [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0 -
Just as any of you who research, you know you have to read allot to get the exact answer you are looking for. THEN there's the diverging........ Well on one quest, I located something else that I just had to follow the breadcrumbs----this is on probiotics. The info of how to evaluate a probiotic and why they are useful is/are good. But the breadcrumb of verifying the evaluator Consumers Guide http://consumersguides.com/ isn't/wasn't easy.
Consumersguide was rated by Alexa. Alexa is a legit business-they just measure business stuff, there's a technical word for it_________metrics. I've used them before in following other breadcrumbs.
http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/consumersguides.com
and Scamadvisor which is a legit business. They rate CC suspicious because the actual owner of ConsumersGuide is hidden.
http://www.scamadviser.com/check-website/consumers...
They still could be a legit organization, but it does cause one to wonder whether or not they receive behind the scenes money to rate a product. So I'm going to post the info from the page I found but delete the products. That way 1. it follows BCO rules to not try to sell something 2. I can't verify the breadcrumb trail, but I've researched enough about probiotics to know what is being said is true and they are saying it better than I can. This will take a few minutes b/c I have about ten or so browser windows open. Then I will go back to the original question.
Well that was fun-- NOT. I couldn't get the page to copy and paste. So, I will leave this now and continue on the original quest. If you connect to the consumersguide page evaluating probiotics. ignore the info regarding the products mentioned.
0 -
bump
0 -
The question: Can a person become dependent on senna?
In the above three abstracts you will find conflicting statement regarding whether a patient can become dependent on senna. The first two abstracts state that structural changes can occur in the colon. The second abstract defines that it is the haustral fold that are altered. The below link defines what haustral folds are and what the function they perform.
This statement from the wise/geek description "Because the formation of sacculations increases the surface area of the large intestine, this helps the colon achieve its three primary functions of retaining, transporting, and finally eliminating digested material as fecal matter. Muscles of the colon move the watery waste material forward and slowly absorb excess water. Soluble and insoluble indigestible carbohydrates travel down the large intestine.
As material travels from one haustrum to the next, a majority of the water is removed. Digestive remains are mixed with bacteria and mucus to make feces. Next, this material moves to the ascending colon where more water is removed, and the stools become more solid as they travel along into the descending colon. At this point, intestinal bacteria use some of the fiber to nourish themselves.
Haustral churning is the sequential movement of colon contents from one haustra to the next. These contractions are slow movements, during which one haustrum expands as material fills it, causing the muscles to contract, and the contents are pushed to the next haustrum. In this manner, waste material from digestion is moved through the colon. A diet high in fiber and fruits can help most people avoid problems with their colon and assist haustral movement."
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-are-haustra.htm
MY answer to the question of whether senna can cause dependency:
In science unless an absolute connection is made then it's not made. So, technically the answer to whether or not someone can become dependent on senna and other stimulant laxatives CANNOT be stated as yes or no b/c no absolute connection in nerve alteration could be scientifically established . The fact that stimulant laxatives change the structure of the colon by altering Haustral folds is important to consider in long term use. What is agreed upon is that senna and all stimulant laxatives should not be used as a routine long term management of constipation.
I haven't looked at the emollient laxatives---colace was part of the intitial full statement re dependencies a few posts ago.
0 -
These links are to a web based research center. A subject is discussed by the author similar to what I have done with the question re: senna dependency. The first link is on constipation. Generally, it states what I have stated. The second link is to the main page that states what they do, how they do it.
What I like about the site is it reviews the subjects based on evidence based research with links to the research from which the based there article on. AH-HaH---LOL, I just realized I like them because that's the way I do it.
0 -
Not sure these links will be helpful, but perhaps there is something in there new?!:
0 -
Thanks Mods appreciate it
0 -
answer reposted from another thread. This is an editorial opinion by me.
Chevy there are 12 pages of pooping suggestions on the constipation thread. Members had all kinds of suggestions. The most commonly reported effective things, I put into a combined recipe is-- Stewed prunes and or apricots(from fresh if available), taken with a warm glass of water with lemon in it, with senna--either as a pill or a tea. The most common orthodox(Doc recommended) plan was Miralax.
After about page 8, I reread all the responses and tabulated what were the "treatments". The stewed prunes and apricots were number one. I thought this very nice b/c it's centuries old versus Mirilax which is polyethylene-glycol ,a manmade chemical. Manmade chemicals have been found to be a problem many years later. There's some very outrageous damning stuff about Polyethylene-glycol (PEG) on the web. Here's one http://www.gutsense.org/gutsense/the-role-of-mira... But we won't know for a long time if it's really as friendly as the American Society of Gastroenterologist claim or as bad as the manmade invention from 1930 era Margarine was with it's trans-fatty acids. This wasn't identified as a health risk until the last decade or so. The American Heart Association pushed margarine as a better alternative to butter for decades. The system that the margarine hurt the worst was the vascular system. Ironic. GOOD LORD Chevy, it was a simple question about pooping.
I'd go with the centuries old approach. Hmm, hope that statement becomes literal.
0 -
i don't really know what my system is doing. It's different every day. Right now, I am taking colase every night and eating chia seeds and drinking lots more water. That seems to be working. I still have not gotten in touch with gi doc. I call and it just rings and rings. I'm thinking of pushing the number that is for doctors, just to see if someone answers. Weird. I have a ct scan on Friday. Sas--did I ask you this already...would a ct scan pick up on stuff going on in the colon? Not to be to gross, but I only have blood when the bm is a certain size and I think it tears something? But I am concerned because I have read this entire thread and other info you have posted and the other things that I picked up on were that I have always been constipated, always. And now the only time it doesn't hurt to go is when it is pencil thin or not solid. And I feel like I don't have any muscles working down there...like no contractions? Sorry that is tmi. Thank you for sharing your knowledge sas...and for everyone's suggestions!
0 -
Actually, it's not TMI. Pencil thin stools lend toward diverticulosis, the blood streaking is also characteristic because hard stool is trying pass through a space that has narrowed over time trying to deal with the consistent hard stool and pouches that have a change in the mucosal lining b/c of the pouch formation. LIke a weaking in the old tube tires. Pretty sure I described that in page one. I found a WebMD article and slide show that I'll put at the bottom.
Lay off the chia seeds for now. There is no accepted evidence that seeds and nuts are a problem, but you are in a more acute situation.
Kj sweetie, I am going to be dead honest with you and your not going to like it. Also, others my read this and say/think it out of bounds. I thought you wrote to me with the original problem awhile ago, but paged back two pages and don't see a post????? Found it , remembered it was on the Rectal Issues thread. I'm going to copy and paste that post after this b/c it will show a better hx of present problem Which ultimately will help someone else.
Having to revise response b/c I thought i read you were having a CT this week , then missed it on a second read. TOTALLY changes the response so, bear with me if you are already reading.--Because you are having the CT Friday, I took out all the dramatic worst case scenario info. Please, consider though you are a high risk patient---see plan below.
If a CT is ordered for Friday, PCP or MO had to order it. The order should be " CT of the abd and pelvis with and without contrast". Depending on the CT report, it will indicate how fast you get a GI appointment.
At this time a colonoscopy would not be done for the following reason. History of pain & blood in stools &pencil thin stools. Definitive imaging of the abd/pelvis is indicated before a scope is introduced.
My Recommended Plan
1. If you develop fever, even without abdominal pain ----go directly to the emergency department. You are a high risk patient for abdominal diverticular rupture or leak until proven otherwise: Fever could be in response to early peritonitis. Peritonitis is associated with pain, but may not present with pain in the early phase of a leak versus a rupture. Ruptures definitely get your attention and are associated with intense pain at time of rupture
2. Follow up asap with whomever made the CT appointment. There is a list of questions on the pervious page that I wrote for Minus TWO. The questions apply to you too. Try and copy the questions and write the answers prior to doc visit. It will help you cover all bases and focus
-------------------------------------------------------
Kj post from Rectal Issues thread. Placed here to give a complete picture of abdominal problem
Feb 12, 2014 11:36pm Kjones13 wrote:
I appreciate this topic. Thanks for bumping it. I have had two rounds of cdiff so I am freaked out of a reoccurrence always. I think I was more sick with cdiff then with 18 weeks of taxol. Anywho, ever since I got my bc diagnosis my colon has not been the same. With all the different meds it's like a circus with my bowels. Most recently I have had rectal bleeding for 3 months but then I just decided to take colace everyday and now there is no blood...I just really don't want to add another specialist into the mix. With the taxol and perjeta causing the big d, I was taking lomotil like crazy. Then taxol stopped. Got a little better but then started taking oxy for back pain. Then got cdiff 2x's. haven't taken lomotil in 7 months. Not going to let anything get backed up and have a chane to breed bad bacteria! Besides the bleeding I had, I also have pain in my butt...it hurts to sit down and kind of feels numb deep down in my saddle area...? Maybe differed pain from L5 met?
Web MD teaching article http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/divertic...
webMD slide show http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/ss/slide...
0 -
Kj---------HUGS------sassy
0 -
thank you sassy. The ct my regularly scheduled 3 month check up. I have liver mets. But they do a chest, abdomen, and pelvis ct. The ct is Friday morning and then I have appt with mo at 12. So I will ask him to get me in with th gi doc ASAP. I will get all my info together so I can present it to the doc.
0 -
Hi all. Sas asked me to post this, so here I am. On Spoiled Maltese, we talk frequently about the dogs having trouble with their bowels. They recommend a teaspoon of plain canned pumpkin. Not the pie mix stuff. This was backed up by Bluebird. Works for humans too!
So go make a pumpkin pie and enjoy, and see what happens. Tastes better anyway, right?
0 -
bump
0 -
I am so looking forward to my gi appt Thursday! Kind of. Now my symptoms have changed. Maybe my bowels readjusting after a virus I got that lasted 48 hours of diarrhea and nausea and burping? I thought it may be cdiff so a dr prescribed me vanco without doing a stool test...which sent me on my next wave of diarrhea and landed me in the hospital losing 9 pounds of fluid!! Amazing what 3 bags of fluids can do for you! But now I have a fullness/ tightness in my upper abdomen, nausea, a distended belly, and back to the blood in the stools which are now blackish/green and hard as a rock! Augh!!!!! I really hope they can figure something out.
0 -
Kj have hope. Let's us know what happens. HUGS L&H&P's sassy.
0 -
Hey there! Is there room for a newbie in this crapper of a thread?
I have been so uncomfortable even talking about this to anyone but you are all too funny as well as really helpful. So I thought I could give it a shot here.
I have had what I assume are to be hemorrhoids for over a year. Sometimes they seem really painful and burning, other times, not so much. I asked my gyn about it when I saw her last Nov and she didn't seem to think it was anything. Of course, that was also during a "good" time so who knows? But when I look up symptoms and info on the topic, I don't have the main symptoms- no blood, no pain when pooping. And it feels more the skin is irritated. I had a third degree tear when my dd was born and it feels more like my scar is more where it hurts. To top it off,I am on lots of abx for my lyme, but I also take nystatin, probiotics,
and diflucan to help with that. I do get a lot of bloating which makes me have the feeling of having to poop all day long and I end up going small bits several times a day.Yay for TMI!!!!
So this is my question. I feel like I have tried everything-- Prep H suppositories (do nothing to help), FiberCon tablets, stool softener like colace, senna tea, and now I bought Miralax.
In your bathroom experiences, is there something out there that will help? I really don't want to have to see yet another doctor at this point in my life.
Thanks!
0 -
thanks faerywings for the tmi!
I have no advice but hopefully sassy will be along shortly. I felt the same way about having another doc but I have an appt tomorrow with gi specialist. This morning I woke up with the same symptoms as two weeks ago! Augh! I could just cry! I think adding the mirilax to your routine will help.0 -
I swear by psyllium, a tablespoon mixed with juice or water. Also there is an herbal product I've used by Dr. Foster's Essentials called "vibrant colon" which has senna and other herbs, but is blended so that you don't get cramping with it, it is very gentle.
0 -
Kj Imissed where you're doc prescribed vanco without doing a stool specimen and sensitivity. Not good chickie, not good. I'll wait till you post what happened at you visit today--thurs. Then I'll give you my full opinion L&H&P's sassy
0 -
faerywings, you're worried about TMI, and I need more. Have you a GI doc? Last seen by them? Report was? Have you had chemo, new drugs , changes in weight since last GI visit? Scoped and when?
Recommend a GI visit. Remember we have docs now for every body part. Gyn doc may have no clue they are looking at a serious rectal anal problem. Not saying it is, just trying to make it clear, that we do have a doc for every system and body part.
Your description that the pain is in the area of the scar is a good observation. Scar tissue is nonpliable without nerve endings, but the tissue around it certainly has. When scar tissue is stretched it can tear and cause trouble.
But this is why you need a GI doc.---no more looking up symptoms ----get thee to a gastroenterologist.
Please, if I didn't cover everything write back, I'm enjoying some wine sassy
0 -
sas--so yesterday I started again with the burping, diarrhea, and extreme nausea. I managed to make it to my appt today and I have slowly felt better throughout the day. There are about 14 dr's in this practice and I've heard great things about them all. After hearing my history and most recent symptoms AND taking until consideration my cancer and that my brother has a severe case of ulcerative colitis (he was pretty much disabled for 8 years but he now has a j pouch) the dr wants to do a colonoscopy and do a biopsy and also an upper endoscopy. But the first available appointment isn't until April 22nd! What are your thoughts? I did ask him if I could take lomotil or Imodium and he said yes.
0 -
Oooh how nice, wine... can I have some too?
SO GI stuff. No, never been to a GI dr. I have a looooon history of constipation. I wasn't able to be in my first grade play becasue I hadn't pooped in days and I had to stay home and drink prune juice and try to poop. How sad is that? LOL So the constipation never rang any bells to me. I have a lot of nerve issues with lyme and my bartonella can mess around with blood vessels, add in yeast issues from the meds, which is why I figured this was just Lyme related.
Thx for your input. When I get through the next step of treatment (I have an RO consult today) I will have to focus on that.
0 -
OH Faery, there's a name for what you have------erhhh restate----there is a condition where there is poor nervous stimulation to the colon.-----forget what it is, it can lead to or be a thing called megacolon. Unusual a PCP never got you to a GI doc before. But just goes to show ya, that pooping is not given the focus it should be. Try and see a Gi doc soon. Even just making the appointment. The lead time for a first time appointment can be a couple months. Not sure how your pre-existing lyme and bor----sorry your spelling isn't correct and I forget the spelling too. Sorry, you have those bugs, they are truly awful diseases.
Kj
The doc recommending the endoscopy--(upper) and the lower colonoscopy is being thorough. Excellent approach. but try and get him to order a stool for OVA & Parasites, Giardia, C-difficile, Culture and Sensitivity, viral(that would take a long time to get results). When you ask for this ----ask " is there any other stool test that can be done that i haven't asked for."
What was the origin of the ulcerative colitis in your brother?
Using lomotil and immodium----they are appropriate in diarrhea where all bacteria and viral bugs have been ruled out. If they are present and you stop the body from trying to rid itself by the diarrhea, then it can have consequences for the rest of the body. So, call and ask the doc to order the tests. Some docs get their noses out of joint when you ask for stuff like this but it is a safer approach.
0 -
thanks sas--I will ask about the stool tests. When I was in the hospital on march 7,8, they tested for all kinds of stuff, but I didn't really get a complete list...the nurse only mentioned cdiff, rotovirus and norovirus. As for my brother...they have no clue. Colitis runs (pun intended) in our family, but only brief bouts of it. Nothing like his. He was an extremely active, healthy 30 year old. I honestly don't know how he survived. Alone, not able to go anywhere...I probably would have put myself out of misery. Glad he didn't give up. He has a beautiful life now, which makes my heart cry with joy!
0 -
0 -
sassy, thank you, as soona s I get through the rads issues, I will get in to see a GI.
ziggy- hahah!!
0 -
Ziggy hahahah, I just found this one thought it belonged here too
0 -
bump
0 -
Just checking in. After the Big D for 9 months w/chemo - I had constipation with rads - which ended 10 days ago. Finished antibiotics yesterday so I hope that makes a difference. Just upped my colace tonight from one a day to two. Either drinking prune juice in the AM or eating 5 dried prunes, but if I forget a day w/the prunes I have hard, tight problems. Not sure if the Zinc that my PCP told me to add could be contributing. Just bought 'plum light' since I'm really tired of prunes. I know I'm not eating enough fruits or veggies, but my taste is still off. Unfortunately what tastes good is bananas & apples - yup - counterproductive. This too shall pass (pun intended).
0 -
Bump, a common issue hope this helps
0 -
Here's a product that might help, but use caution! LOL! And if what you need is a good laugh (and who doesn't, at times, when going through this stuff??) then just start reading the reviews for this product. I was laughing so hard tears were streaming down my face. :-)
0 -
Jennie, oh thanks for the laugh This is the sh*tiest humor, I've seen in alongggg while. ERh it's humor folks not real.
0 -
Bump
0 -
it wasn't funny then but it is to me now. It was more painful and longer pushing to have a BM than it was to give birth to my third child!!! I had to do my Lamaze breathing to get through the over 45 minutes but I was determined to poop 11 days after surgery. Even though I took the colase, I think the iron pills killed me with regard to being able to poop. I cut back on the iron pills and it's been a lot better!
0 -
NoNips Hi, Iron will do that.plug you up erhhhlike iron balls. Please, never let yourself go for longer than three days. It puts too much pressure on the colon walls. Also, the stool closest to the rectum/anus gets so dry, it's like trying to get rocks out. Talk magnesium citrate with your doc i.e. to be used if you haven't had a Bm in three days. Remember though if you use it, it will clean you out. You may not have a BM for several days. Conversely, you may have the squirts for a day or so. I do. But i'd rather have the squirts , than the constipation.
Just a reminder never stick ANYTHING up the rectum if you are in a low immune state i.e fleets enema, enemas, suppositories.
Review your drugs with your pharmacist and see if they can make a suggestion about your drugs to reduce constipation.
I recently took colace during my radioactive Iodine 131 (pill). I was not impressed at all with how it worked. Now will have this bottle for years. I know it's on all recommended lists.
If you review from the beginning, you will be impressed with all the comments about stewed apricots and prunes
. MY SIL does say colace and stewed prunes finally got her going LOL.Going to PM this too you just in case you don't see this sassy
0 -
bump
0 -
SAS - I always do a double take when you change your avatar.
I seem to have conquered my problem with one Colace every night and a glass of prune juice every 3 days. Thanks for all your advice.
0 -
Ladies, what about ripe papaya? it seems to help me with constipation.
0 -
MinusTwo........ Hi, LOL, I only recently learned how to do an avatar. Now, when the mood strikes, I change it. Very fun. Can you imagine if we all did it---what a hoot
Glad your body is cooperating YAY.
There's a learning experience for us all, from your post.
1.You searched for different solutions to your problem
2. You experimented to see what worked for you
3. You continued doing it.
This supports why reading from the beginning helps here and elsewhere.
"What works for others, may not work for you. Conversely, what works for you, may not work for others". Quoted from FBB 2014-sassy
0 -
Hello soriya that rhymes with papaya
. Re: your post on the pervious page " Ladies, what about ripe papaya? it seems to help me with constipation. ". Raised my curiosity. Off I went on a search. The link to Whole Foods was interesting and fun. They give the A to Z information about each of their topics. As a cautionary, please, make sure to read the part on Papaya and Latex Allergy.http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=47
Very often, I look at Wikipedia as a source. I'm not linking it b/c it isn't done well. That's the first time, I've ever said that about a Wikipedia page that was well established.
0 -
An hour ago, edited a few seconds ago by sas-schatzi
Hi, popping in. I was posting with another member. I thought sharing the below information may be helpful to you
.The link www.needymeds.org is to a web site started by a Social Worker and a doc. It is a tricky site to use. The first page leads to a several hundred resource pages. But I think this first page, does not project the wealth that lies beneath. Be patient when following the links within the site. There are sections that are disease and drug specific. The specific page then links to lists of organizations that provide monetary or other types of assistance.
Register first and do the request for assistances form. Reason: the request for assistance form is filed. If you apply to 1 or 20 organizations/companies, the forms don't need to be repeatedly filled out. The system is designed to pull from the original form. There may be a few particulars that need to be added to a companies/organizations form.
All the pharmaceutical companies have patient assistance programs. All the drug manufactures are listed there
The other way to reach drug manufactures is 1. call the manufactuer patient assistance number(goolge keywords: drug name and manufacturer, then to webpage>>>patient assistance. Very time consuming.
There is so much more on www.needymeds.org. It took a bit of time to wander through the whole site. I've shared a telephone walk through with many friends and relatives. I even called healthcare facilities to tell them about this link.
For completeness, there are many ways to get financial assistance for whatever you need. There are organizations that will do things for you i.e volunteers that buy groceries, drive, install handrails, build wheelchair ramps.
How to find the info besides from the link above? FIND the SOCIAL WORKER(SW). It's there job to know these things
Talk to all of the following 1. cancer center SW, 2.hospital SW, 3. Insurance companies SW, 4. County SW. 5. church outreach leader.I requested from my insurance carrier a consult with a SW. That one appointment with the insurance carrier Social Worker, led to grants totaling $10,550. The meeting with the cancer centers SW, led to coverage of neulasta for $4000.00.
0 -
Bump , companion thread Rectal issues, link in topic box0 -
bump0 -
bump0 -
Bump
0 -
Always having struggled with constipation despite doing everything right (exercise, water, fiber supplements, healthy eating) I was very worried going into surgery. And less than 1 day being home from my BMX had to go back to the hospital for a few days due to a bowel obstruction
Since then my doctor put me on Miralax. It is a life saver! It gets a little pricey though, as some of you pointed out. I did some research and found that some insurances will cover it. Also, Walgreens has a sale every so often on their brand of it where it's buy one get one 50% off.0 -
Stepangel sorry you had the problem. Did they use the word post-op ileus with you. Common for bowel to go to sleep with anesthesia and or stressor illnesses. Reason I bring it up is, if you have surgery again do a little reading on post-op ileus. Google "mayo clinic and post operative ileus". Mayo has the best patient teaching info. I would have found a link for you, but I have a new computer. I haven't figured everything out yet. Good Luck, sassy0 -
Thank you for the info. I will look into that for sure!
0 -
I didn't read the entire thread on the subject, but I went from going a minimum of 2-4 times a day pre chemo - to small movements once a day the three to 5 days following treatment. I am going to see if any of the things I did read about help. I try to drink more water (which is getting increasingly gross to me), popsicles, dried prunes/apricots, and watermelon trying to keep hydrated and keep things "moving"
I have Milk of Magnesia from surgery which worked realy well, but the thought of drinking that stuff only increases my queasiness!
0 -
Bump
0 -
Milk of Magnesia is my friend
0 -
Homemom, glad something works YAY. Please, take the time to read the descriptions of laxative and stool softners on page 10. It's a short section, see how milk of Mag fits in
sassy There is a section on the prolonged use of the drugs 0 -
I've only had to use it now three times over the course of the last 4 months. It usually works overnight for me. When I start having normal BM's I feel normal again.
0 -
Homemom GREAT
please, put this in your favs and page ten is in the topic box links. Your usage is absolutely minor as you describe YAY!0 -
BUmP for a better go
0 -
I'm coming up to almost 3 years of Arimidex and I've been fighting constipation from the first week. None of the usual remedies worked to any sufficient degree. You know it's a problem when you're (almost) looking forward to the colonoscopy clean out.
Much to my surprise the last couple of months have been greatly improved by adding a morning cup of coffee to my routine. (I previously drank tea). Now, on most days, about 1/2 hour after the cup of hot coffee I have a productive visit to the john.
Only those of us who have been chronically constipated understand the elation that comes with regular BM's.
I just hope it keeps working.
0 -
I suffered from constipation before the chemo and it's worse now. Going to see a GI doc today prior to scheduling my first colonoscopy. VERY recently I found Ezekial cereal wthat has a low glycemic index and has helped with the constipation. Not too tasty so need. A little honey and fruit to spruce it up.
If the GI guy has any other ideas, I'll post.
Hugs,
Peggy
0 -
Re: constipation. It never was a problem for me until about 6 months before my BC diagnosis. Unless I take a tablespoon of psyllium daily, it is a big problem. I do wonder if the constipation was an early sign that my body wasn't functioning properly.
0 -
bump
0 -
My GI told me to take Miralax on a daily basis. That combined with a high fiber diet(e.g. Raisin bran, cruciferous verge tables, raw fruit) and daily exercise has now made me regular on a daily basis. I have a colonoscopy Sept. 11, so will report back then.
Peggy
0 -
Thanks Peggy
:)sassy0 -
Still wondering what would be better. Docs approved so I take Colace on a daily basis and still get constipated once every week or 10 days. Maybe I should open the Miralax I bought but never used. Right now I'm not changing anything until I finish my last TWO herceptin infusions. When I'm really finished, then we'll see.
0 -
HI! MinusTwo. It's been a while. Every colon is different. That's a VERY important thought. What works for one person may not work for another. AND what works for each of use USUALLY, may fail us at times. That's why I encouraged new readers to look at all the suggestions from page one on to the end(pun).
Which leads to several new thoughts. I'll attempt to organize them, LOL........ran out of coffee so this won't be easy.
When bowel issues either constipation or diarrhea are a problem, have a written plan. I suggest a written plan b/c then when you activate the constipation /diarrhea portion of the plan you don't have to think about what you are going to do. We ALL know thinking for us is an issue in itself LOL.
Going to post this so I don't lose it--------------Need to find coffee------check back for the rest of the response sassy
Coffee's abrewin Basic plan 1.Keep a calendar or a journal to mark daily bowel movements. 2. Keep well hydrated 3.Be aware of what foods bind or loosen your stools. 4. Follow your daily plan to manage bowels. (I recommend the non man made drugs when possible i.e. stewed prunes/apricots) For some people made made product use IS going to be part of the basic plan. But remember all drugs have consequences. Read my analysis on Senna a page or so ago.
Low level plan-Plan B 1. If constipation noted by delayed evacuation or stools are hard and difficult to pass, institute plan B----miralax, laxative, stool softner. 2. Recheck hydration levels. (check urine---if you can see any color to it in the commode, you are not well hydrated enough)
Maximum level plan -Plan C 1. Magnesium citrate
0 -
My doctors also recommend Miralax on a daily basis. I mix mine with a little apple juice. This works for me, and is not harsh like Senna.0 -
Birdlady, Miralax is widely used. Approximately 2, possibly as long as 3 years ago, the American Society of Gastroenterology changed their recommendation from High fiber diet (25 to 30 Gms) with adequate hydration as the proper way to promote normal bowel movements...to Miralax and proper hydration.
When I asked my GI doc, as he was telling me of the change, what he thought of it. He was closed mouthed. He's my doc, but I also worked with him and was taught by him for many years. He then repeated the new guidelines. He did so b/c he was following the guideline. I know what he was thinking b/c he taught me. He didn't agree. He uses/prescribes Miralax when needed, but his belief is in proper eating.
All sub-specialties of the American Medical Association(AMA) have governing bodies that meet every x number of years to produce new guidelines and reaffirm what they continue to support. This does not mean there is universal support. It means consensus ruled.
In a historical perspective, have guidelines always proved effective. No. In the 70's the American Heart Association(AHA) promulgated the use of margaraine(sic) over butter. Less saturated fat. In the 2000's the identification of the evils of trans-fatty acids was identified. So, for decades the leadership of the AHA espoused artery clogging trans-fatty acids as the choice for the populace. OOPS! Kept the cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in business and will for the foreseeable future.
MY POINT
Miralax is a new chemical. It's Polyethylene Glycol. Definition from internet:- a synthetic resin made by polymerizing ethylene glycol, in particular any of a series of water-soluble oligomers and polymers used chiefly as solvents or waxes
Favorite med site : http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?se...
I had more but wiped it out with an errant finger. Thank goodness I saved the rest.
Please remember all drugs are chemicals. Foods are chemicals. Apricots and prunes are chemicals. Apricots and prunes have been around a long time. We know what they do. Don't set yourself up for the "OOPS"
BTW----Miralax shouldn't be used by anyone with kidney disease. If it's not absorbed from the gut and circulated to the kidney, why is that?
0 -
Bird , Peggy, and All. I keep Miralax in the house for plan B
0 -
Wow! Sas-schatzi, thanks for the heads up. I do take a lot of pain meds for bone mets, and was advised that these meds were the cause of constipation, which I am to avoid(apparently at all cost) I have always eaten a pretty balanced diet, exercised, and drank plenty of water. I will up the apricots and prunes, and wean off the the Miralax. I'll keep it for "Plan B" Interesting that you brought up margarine...my brother always refused to eat it, and convinced me at a young age that it was poisonous. Turns out he was right. We have often talked about our great grandparents who ate eggs, butter, pork, beef, and veggies that they grew on their farm. They lived into their nineties without cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Our modern diet is so refined and processed that there is very little "food" in it.I trust my doctor, but you have given me a reason to look at my diet more closely. Thanks! Birdlady
Also, thanks for the link. I have bookmarked that one.
0 -
Sassy - I bookmarked the link too. Thanks
Birdlady - I never switched to margarine either. Or "I can't believe it's not...". Real butter for me and lots of it. It's probably the only thing I don't consume in moderation.
0 -
Bird and M2, thanks, There are many recipes in the previous pages for apricots and prunes
I did a review of I think the first 8 pages along time ago. The food recipes won hands down as a means to create regularity. I was pleased and surprised. I too felt that margarine was trouble. It was invented around 1930. I figured butter was around for thousands of years.
Ask your docs about adding either fishoil or flaxseed oil to your diets(IMPORTANT see Birds Pm to me below). They contain Omega3/6/9 essential fatty acids. Omega3 is the really good guy. I call it the cavalry.
Omega6 produces about 30 Prostagladins. Roughly half are good. Half bad. Omega3 works on preventing the damage to the body by the bad effects of Omega6.
Not much is known about Omega9, but it is still considered an essential fatty acid. BtW Essential Fatty Acids(EFA's) term means our body has to have them for allot of cell/body functions. But we can't/don't make them in the body. We have to obtain them from an external source.
Omega3 has been processed out of our foods starting in the early 1900's and got progressively worse as time went on. Bird just as you have stated about processed food. The advent of significant increases in cancer, heart disease, diabetes parallels the change in our food production.
I take 2000 mg of fish or flax oil a day. It helps with keeping things moving. Plus, you can't believe what it does for your skin. Once you start taking it, it takes a few weeks to see the skin change. It's affect on every single cell in the body is important.
The benefits of the OMEGA3 have only been embraced by orthodox medicine in the last decade. It's been researched heavily for 60 years. The primary GURU was Udo Irasmus Phd. He wrote "Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill" If you read it, make sure you read the Forward. Irasmus will teach you what sections of the book to read based on your need. The first chapters are very technical. He wrote it that way b/c he wanted the science/medical establishment to understand the serious scientific research that he had done and compiled. For lay people if you look at the first chapter it'd be a "This is not for me reaction" LOL.
Historically, Irasmus identifies that Flaxseeds were found in Egyptian tombs for food in the afterlife. Empirically, flaxseed was used by many societies b/c they noted it 's benefits. Charlemagne decreed that his subjects have a serving a day.
Fish oil gained interest in the 70's when researchers picked up on the reduced cancer and cardiovascular numbers in Norwegian and Japanese societies.
They both entered the general population use in the USA around 2005. Now soooooo many things have Omega3 touted as being added to the food product.
If you use either oil, make sure it's from a reputable source. Heat can affect each one. Refrigerated oil is the most trustworthy IMO. Fish oil should be from a company that certifies that it has been tested for contaminants. For years I wouldn't use it b/c of this, but they're companies that do certify now. Our seas aren't that clean anymore. With the actual Flax seeds avoid commercially ground flax. Research has shown that the benefits are lost in less tin 24 hours. If you grind your own, use them right away.
BTW when I was reading and learning about the Omega's, I had come to the conclusion that Omega3 was the cavalry as I said above. Low and behold, I turned a page in Irasmus's book, there was a pic by Irasmus describing Omega3 as the cavalry.
0 -
Great info post, sas-schatzi. Can you give me some reputable sources for Flax seeds? If not on the forum, can you pm me, please? My skin could sure use some help. Arimidex is rough on skin and hair. Thanks! Birdlady
0 -
Bird
Barleans sassy0 -
Hi Bird has done some research. This is what she PM'd me. Absolutely important here. I did say ask your docs, But will go back and Bold it and Put a note to see Birds post below. Thanks Bird. Good job , you go girl. sassy
PM from Bird
"Hi! I have been looking at flaxseed oil, as you and some others recommended. I have a great friend who has used it for years. When I mentioned it to her she suggested that I read about it, and ask my doctor before taking it, as it can increase estrogen. Here is just one paragraph that I copied.
"Flaxseed may not be safe for women with a history of estrogen-sensitive cancer, such as breast or uterine cancer. A few test tube studies suggest that certain cancer cells can be stimulated by lignans such as those present in flaxseed. 52 Other studies found that lignans inhibit cancer cell growth. 53 As with estrogen, lignans' positive or negative effects on cancer cells may depend on dose, type of cancer cell, and levels of hormones in the body. If you have a history of cancer, particularly breast cancer, talk with your doctor before consuming large amounts of flaxseeds."
I know that everyone is different, and these "studies" are limited, but there were several web sites that mentioned that breast cancer patients may not want to take it. I think I will explore other options to use diet changes to wean myself off of Miralax. I am stage IV, so I take pain meds for mets, and I must avoid constipation. This darn disease offers us so many challenges. I want to try and take good care of myself, diet, exercise, and spiritual health. Thank you for the heads up about the Miralax. You reminded me to be more careful about reading labels.
Best Wishes, Birdlady"
Bird It brought back a distant memory as to why I hadn't put it on here before. If you can please, continue your search. Omega3 is essential to health. How we get there is the question. See if you can find anything on how to add it to the diet. Salmon, sea bass, herring, mackerel are some sources, nuts. I eat seafood. Your source may be why I switched to fish oil from flax oil.
The sentence about "talk with your doctor before consuming large amounts of flaxseeds." What the author of the article assumed was large amounts. All things in moderation. A totally absent or low diet in Omega3 will lead to all kinds of ill health things. It's trying to find a line to live by is the hard thing.
0 -
Thank you, sassy! You said it in one sentence for me..."All things in moderation" I will continue to research. I don't eat much fish, so I need to look more at nutrition to get those Omega3 in. I think sometimes people go overboard with supplements, thinking that more is better.0 -
OH BIRD, you've sent me on a quest. Ohvay!. Someone a few pages back made a simple statement re:Senna couldn't be habit forming. I didn't know one way or the other. It sent me on several Sundays quest of reading to come to a conclusion. I was so tired of reading about poop.
I'm on an Omega3 quest. Do me a favor and link those resources to here, and I'll include them in my study. This is not going to be completed in a short time. It might take me a couple of weeks. So look back to see what I can put together. You can do a look back to see the senna material to see how I put the resources together.
OH GIRL, the outcome will be good. I just know how much work it'll be getting there. Really all I can think of is food right now LOL. Thanks.
Pm from Bird worried about contradicting me on the board, my answer follows
"Bird , Absolutely contradict me. Safety is a huge issue with me AND correct info is absolute. It will create great research. Keeping this short b/c I hate to write long PM's and then have them blocked.
Thanks sassy"
0 -
Under construction --------research articles on Omega's and estrogen
Birds first & second & third links RE Flaxseed oil
http://www.med.nyu.edu/content?ChunkIID=21714
Bird, the above article is very well balanced. It is too technically written for the lay public. I found that interesting b/c it is a fact oriented article for the public made available by a hospital based medical center. Then I noticed at the end something that has lead me to Niravanha(sic). The flaxseed article available from NYU is a contracted publication from a company called EBSCO. EBSCO produces informational articles that are evidence based, peer reviewed, and update on a tiered basis(time sensitive --1 year to 5 years)
At the bottom where it says copyright and ebsco, click on editorial policy. This is the A_Z about EBSCO policies fro article production. It's an important read. It's a tedious read LOL. About 60% through I almost gave up. From a research point of view it takes allot of the work out of researching b/c per their policies they have established very tight criteria over what they produce.
This is sassy's link to http://www.ebsco.com/about
When you go to EBSCO's web site, you can't just plug in your search terms. Makes sense they are selling their product. Nice to know that an article with the EBSCO copyright, that is produced for lay public teaching, has gone through rigorous peer review and update in a set time period based on subject.
http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/confirmed-flaxsee...
Bird, the above link is actually an exceptional site. BUT the author has a clear agenda. He is out to prove that flaxseed IS okay. The very first hyperlink goes to a very lengthy bibliography. The bibliography is also hyperlinked which allows the reader to read the original research. This allows the reader to evaluate in the context of the original research what the Green Med author supports. This will take significant amount of time to get through all the reading.
The good part is we don't have to spend time searching for articles that support the use of flaxseed in the breast cancer/cancer patient. The negative is not sure yet b/c I haven't gotten into the reading, is whether he included the flipside position of flaxseed being dangerous for breast cancer patients. I won't know until the reading is complete.
Bird, this link as you know is to the same green med web site. I did take time with this one to read through some of the bibs(bibliography). All that I read, support the authors position which is definitely antipharmaceutical/antiorthodox established medicine.
If I saw more balance on greenmed.com I could give more credence to his conclusions. He is definitely passionate about his topics.
The problem with sites such as these, is there is no balance. But as long as the reader realizes that articles that don't agree with his position aren't present, it's okay. The reader needs to take the next step and study the opposite point of view.
The reader then can make their own conclusion. Eventually that's what we will do.
0 -
Data interpretation or whatever this becomes
0 -
Conclusion re omega search
0 -
Reserved for input from others on omega search
0 -
Bird reserve a couple of boxes below me. One box just put under construction for research links. Another box for data, third box for conclusions. This way we can keep everything linked and work off each others info.
0 -
Under construction for links0 -
Bird, I can't send anymore PM's today. You couldn't post it b/c it was too fast, you just need to wait a few more seconds and it will let you do it.
Birdlady yoohoo We can use thes boxes to communicate, saves using allot of space. Then when we want we can wipe them clean by editing. I didn't want to say delete. Delete will make the box useless. Editing keeps them active.
BIRD are you catching on LOL. I put your link in the box above. See ya off to dinner
BIRD YOOHOOO LOL I"M over HERE------I see your PM's , but I'm blocked from sending any more today.
0 -
Data0 -
Conclusions0 -
Bird in searching we will sift through maybe a couple hundred articles. The first thing to make the work go easier is use this phrase in the search box."Evidence based research Flaxseed oil and breast cancer" That will pull scientific articles/studies. We won't put all articles here way too cumbersome. That's why it will take awhile. Lots of reading. For the subject at hand look at article publication date. It's not that older publications don't have value, it depends on the subject and the goal of the research.
In this case we want to know the most recent research on flax and fish oils with breast cancer, then secondly all cancers.
The second link that I put up above from your PM. Is what's referred to as an anecdotal article. I didn't read the who;e thing. but the bibliography wasn't immediately present. Articles without bibliographies have limited value b/c you can't verify the source that the info is taken from.
I use them sometimes, but only to generate more questions to research. Plus, I like to see what's out there in the non scientific world.
Be patient, it will take a several weeks to do this right. We have lives that we have to work around. Plus, do too much and you will get burned out.
I LOVE the idea of doing this with you -------YAY ------fun ------------studying to the max. LOL. I'm weird.
0 -
I am trying to catch up with reading this thread, and maybe already been covered. The only thing that really works for me is magnesium. Should I be worried about my kidneys? My blood test showed a low GFR count. So, Miralax is hard on kidneys? If I continue to take magnesium, how much should I take? Any information appreciated.
0 -
Stage1, I'll take the fifth on that one. Please talk with your PCP or GI doc. It. is an OTC drug. But as I have said before "All drugs have consequences". You may discuss with the PCP a consultation with a Nephrologists to address your concern re: GFR.
Your Question " So, Miralax is hard on kidneys? " isn't actually what I wrote The drug info says to be used with caution by anyone with kidney disease. It's not defined. Google --keywords. "how does miralax affect the kidney" or use " miralax and kidney" or "Microabsorption of polyethylene glycol absorption and kidney" Keep using a play on those words to pull the info.
Please Stage come back and let us know what you find
sassy0 -
thanks, Sassy. Yes, I must have some further communication with my PCP. What he recommended did not work well for me. I will recheck with him about magnesium. I will let u know what I find out.
0 -
Stage 1---I would definitely ask for a Nephrologist appointment. Do some reading about GFR. If I had a change in GFR, I would not take any drug unless I had the input of my nephrologist. With all the meds that BC subjects us too, protecting the kidney's are important. Good Luck
sassy.0 -
thanks for the advice, Sassy. Gosh, seems we have to do a study ourselves to know what care we need. I would love to rely on my doctors, tho.
0 -
Stage1, sadly not all docs keep up as much as others. Without doing some of our own learning, we don't know if they are up to date or not. I learned that very early on in nursing thank goodness. I study whatever it is I need to know that's the latest in whatever. Look above I just added in the Omega research box what I learned today.
I had uncomplicated what I thought minor thyroid issues until fall of 2012. I did leave trust in my doc of 6 years. Then I started having major symptoms, that I knew were thyroid related. Endocrine doc kept saying all was normal b/c my TSH was normal. May of 3013, routine yearly f/u for BC cat scan, Goiter noted. Long story short, I now know a great deal more about thyroid, thyroid cancer, radioactive iodine, and post-thyroidectomy management. LOL more than I ever cared to know.
I knew the standard stuff about thyroid. Never felt compelled to do more searching than I knew. Odd b/c I love to do mini searches as I call them, to look at familiar subjects just to see whats new. We all make up our own life rules
One of mine was "Just when you think you know something, look at it again". The point being b/c of the seriousness of the thyroid issue. I have now concluded that orthodox medicine hasn't got a clue about how the thyroid impacts the body. This will not become general knowledge for another few years. Could be a few years, maybe as long as ten years. IT will happen though. The hours and days of searching and reading has allowed me to say this. LOL, I could go on for hours discussing this --I won't. As a result of what I now know, my Endocrine doc and I have parted ways. His depth of knowledge on one of the major organs under his specialty, is woefully lacking.
I just didn't presume my learning was absolute. After I learned all kinds of new things, I sought out the best endocrine doc. He is in the top tier of thyroid specialists in the world. He confirmed my new learning as correct, corrected some, raised more questions, smiled at some, admitted what he didn't know. He wasn't dogmatic, to me, that's the trademark of a true scientist.
We had an exchange of knowledge. That can't be done without doing a "learning selfie"(just made that up)
0 -
I admire you Sassy! I, too, have an interest in figuring this all out. I have commented more than once that too many women here, have thyroid disease and become BC patients. There has to be a link between these diseases. I, along with other women in my family have BC and thyroid disease.
0 -
Stage the concentration of my study was on Thyroid function and cancer of the thyroid. But there isn't much written on the connection between the two. BC and thyroid problems may/do have a familial connection. Since I'm past the prevention side of both, I didn't focus on that much. A few points that stayed with me re: BC & Thyroid. With the element Iodine, the thyroid uses the most iodine. The second highest tissue in the body that uses iodine, is breast tissue. Interesting?
Why breast tissue uses iodine is totally unknown. The use of iodine isotopes (diagnostic and cancer treating RAI-131) have all kinds of cautions when breast are intact i.e scans, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Interesting? An interesting web site is "stopthethyroidmaddness.com" STTM and another web sit by a Dr Rind(use his name for the keyword, I forget the name of his web site).
Since I have to be regulated on a much higher dose of thyroid med now b/c the thyroid is gone. I realize all the things that are now starting to correct themselves at a higher dose than I was previously on. The man made parameters of TSH lab test which is considered the gold standard by orthodox endocrine docs, is not addressing the signs and symptoms(s/s's) being shown by patients. If you study the management of all the symptoms that were treated for a hundred years by porcine thyroid and patients descriptions of improvement where dose was related to symptom improvement, we have a pre mid 70's approach and a post mid 70's approach. The change was the introduction of TSH as a measurement of thyroid function.
If I'm having such significant changes on a higher/different level that I can observe, what was happening within my body that I can't observe?
How much affect did thyroid have on breasts? Was my diet lacking in iodine? Was iodine the reason? How are they genetically linked? Is their a link? LOL, the research raised more questions per usual than it answered
, but it certainly answered allot.I know this is long, BUT many of these s/s's were present for a very long time, even decades for fatigue, constipation, pain, sinus, smell some others. Certainly not improved with the small 25 mcg dose of thyroid med I was put on in 2007. The stark changes that occurred before the goiter dx. Then all that happened after and until the thyroid med after treatment. Plus, the improvements since increased dose from 125mcg to 137mcg. Now the switch to porcine thyroid. I now believe, TSH measured nothing for me. Remember TSH normal value is a man made level determined by a scientific study. I would bore you with how often in my nursing lifetime beginning in 1969, that science has change an accepted parameter. The joke with us that were teaching at one point was "What are we teaching this year".
How does thyroid relate to breast and Breast Cancer? The story hasn't been written yet.
0 -
Okay, I'm done pontificating for the day LOL. Hope you can sift through the soap boxing. Going to go play. BIRD YOOHOOO All things in moderation.
0 -
Sassy, thank you for sharing... I like your last sentences on you post..."the story hasn't been written yet"....just sayin, if doctors just admitted what is not known yet, we would be much more content and not searching for answers that are not there. It's like I must have asked six drs, including a RO, how much radiation is too much radiation?....no one told me the answer until I asked my PCP for the second time..."we just don't know". I like that answer better than no answer. Well, we are far from topic...One question Sassy, with all this studying, do you have any FUN??? LOL
0 -
Stage1, The studying is the fun
LOL-------------depends though if I'm the focus or the searcher for some on else. If I'm the focus , it kind of pisses me off if I think I should have done a more in-depth study i.e thyroid. I took a thyroid pill. Depended on an Endocrinologist. I didn't do a search for myself that I would have done for someone else. But that isn't true for all circumstances related to me. JUST happened I did it with the Endocrin guy. Bummer. Way bummer..............what I have lost b/c I believed in him.............I will never knowAND if I'm right that orthodox medicine has no clue about what thyroid management entails b/c of a man made lab value that doesn't relate to humans.. I'm not going to be happy.
0 -
Hi , haven't been in the mood to research, maybe on the week end.0 -
Nope still not interested inresearching on Omega'sBut for those needing constipation help, please, scan from the beginning. Members have offered so much help
Edit April 14th 2015: I was searching for something else and came across this web page. Dr. Mercola Takes a very confusing subject and does well at defining the Omega's. However, it will take some study to solidly understand the information.
0 -
Me either, Sassy. It's been a sad week. My daughter's friend lost her mom suddenly to bowel impaction. They were unable to save her with surgery, as the intestine had torn and she was septic. She passed during the surgery. I am so devastated for this family.I had my monthly treatment Monday, but didn't get to see my onc...just the FNP. I have never seen her before, and she wasn't good at answering my questions regarding Miralax and alternatives. She told me just to keep taking it and talk it over next month with my onc. OK. I can do that. I still would like to do some research, not just for myself, but for all of us that face the possible complications of constipation vs. it's prevention.
I usually don't feel like much for about a week after treatment, so I will try to focus next week and see what I can find.
Gentle hugs to all, Birdlady
0 -
Sassy - good advice about seeing a Nephrologist for low GFR. Ironically, low numbers can be temporary and not that serious, and easily reversible - OR - a sign of more serious kidney damage. Better to understand WHY the GFR is low. Mine was low due to diuretics, my sister's is low due to dehydration, and DH's is low due to kidney disease.
RE Constipation.... another perspective...
~ ~ ~
I was having my weekly acupuncture treatment on
Monday, and my Acupuncturist (graduated from Eastern Medical School in China,
licensed Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine practioner, and PhD) was
telling me about a patient she was treating for constipation.She said that each organ in the body has a time of
day where the energy is the strongest, like the tides of the ocean.The high chi/energy period for the large intestine
is from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. This is the optimum time to move the bowels.She told her patient to get up each morning between
5 and 7, and drink two full glasses of water, either hot, or at room
temperature. She said she would need his participation in order for the
acupuncture to work. (I think he will have his second treatment this week.)I’ve been getting acupuncture for nine months now…. It
was very helpful with joint pain from the AIs, and lower back pain, and now is
resolving the balance issues I have from a head injury.My DH gets acupuncture for his incurable kidney
disease. We don’t expect the acupuncture to cure all that ails us, but we are
committed to “Total Body Health”… in other words, we are doing everything we
can to take the burden off certain organs and body parts, so that they are not
under so much strain. (OT - His kidney function has improved since starting
acupuncture!)Here is a chart of the peak energy times for organs
in the body.http://newdirectionnaturalmedicine.com/chinese-organ-clock/
From the site:
“It is recommended to drink a glass
of warm lemon juice to stimulate the bowels, get the lymph system moving and to
remove toxins from the night’s cleansing.” I think they mean during the peak energy times.May be worth a try…. (note: I do not take Chinese herbs.)
0 -
Hi Blessings, So true about the bowel evacuation. There's a name for the reflex, but I forget it. The wave begins in the muscular portion of the esophagus, the wave goes to the end of the colon with pressure at the rectum. Used to teach patients the same thing as your Acupuncturist. But would suggest that what ever their awaking time was, if they had to leave for work consider waking up a half hour to an hour earlier. Do the water and lemon, then when they felt the signal--GO. Too many people delay the signal and then have trouble going. It does naturally occur in the am, but can be retrained to different times.In nursing school, had a visiting instructor who had a colostomy. Her colon was so well trained, she didn't wear a bag. That's belief
0 -
Oh Bird, how awful for your friends Mom and the family. The hard part is that bowel impaction is very painful and before rupture is very intense. I wrote some stuff on Diverticulosis on page one and then a smattering of posts throughout these pages as it applies to colon problems. With the elderly(actually any age) that can't communicate b/c of altered mentally status, tracking BM's is very important for the reason you describe. In an earlier post I described, if I had patient with new onset behavior change, part of the assessment was determining if they were impacted or not. Condolences to the family.As far as the research here, what's nice is..... if we feel like doing it, we do, if we don't, we don't
Take care0 -
Regretfully, need to add another reason for rectal itch. Eczema. There are several conditions that affect the vulva and rectal area, that fall under the classification of Eczema. Lichen Planus, Lichen dermatitis, Lichen sclerosus and more. Psoriasis can be a culprit too. They present much like a yeast infection. But when biopsied a definitive dx is made. The treatment is topical steroid. I have found bag balm is very good adjunct. There are multiple sources for info on the internet. I'm linking to the Harvard one b/c I liked it the best, but there are many sources.Some predisposing factors: Hypothyroid, autoimmune dysfunction, allergic response, adrenal stress(right up our alley), history of frequent antibiotics, IBD, reduced immune state from chemo, and more. When Jill and I were posting here this wasn't on my radar. Since RAI-131 treatment for Thyroid cancer, trust me it's been on my radar. It's incredibly uncomfortable, but I had a clue right away. I had the DX of Lichen sclerosus from last summer. It was an incidental finding when I asked Derm doc to do a vulva exam. It wasn't bothering me then, but after Rai whew. Wish we'd known about it when Jill was here. Never know, may have been the source of her problem.
Some things I learned. Not all Dermatologist Docs are used to doing vulva/rectal exams. Seems like it should be part of a head-to-toe exam. It may or may not be depending on the Derm. After my Derm doc scared the bejebbers out of me with yet another cancer scare, she tells me it's not her usual modis operandi and suggested going to a GYN doc. Sure wish she'd said that up front. Thyroid and vulva bx's were coming back on the same day. She didn't relate that it wasn't her usual thing, until we were going over the results.
When I first searched it after initial problem after Rai, not much was coming up. Now oodles. A best approach for dx is a GYN doc that has experience. Ask prior to making an appointment. If it isn't controlled, seek out a Vulva clinic. See info in the Harvard link. Asking that a dermpatholigist read the biopsy is within reason. It is mentioned in multiple sources.
Hope this helps Sassy
0 -
Oh my goodness Sassy. Thanks for the new information. I'm seeing my OB/Gyn next month & I'll surely have a discussion with her.
0 -
Hi MT, rather meet at Pinktober than here LOL. I reposted the above from Rectal Issue thread. I have a link in the topic box to the RI thread. But figured it was appropriate here too, not everyone swings over to the rectal issues thread.One in thirty women are dx'd with the problem. We fit the profile so much b/c of the stress related events. I'm just getting real tired of having all this weird stuff, that most never hear of, yet is a bigger problem than we know. When I first searched the computer didn't pull much. Same search terms as later, but the computer gremlins got working. Now lots of info.
But when I first looked at it, it was only pulling forums where women were searching for answers. Many went for years without a proper dx. No DX, no proper treatment.
Nice to see you
0 -
Bump0 -
bump0 -
bump0 -
Bump
0 -
I have read and reread this topic when in my time of need. So far it has never failed me, I can always find something that works. Sas, thanks for starting this thread. Sending good thoughts
0 -
I'm in agreement. Wonderful thread. I keep meaning to bump if it gets too far down the list of my favorites. I'll have to do better.
I actually took Colace for a full year. Once I got past the Big D during a year of chemos, of course I swung the other way. I finally stopped Colace in December. I seem to be OK if I remember to eat a green salad every day, or a plate of raw cauliflower, radishes, carrots & whatever. Of course I stopped all the rest of my supplements too while preparing for a bunch of tests. Wonder what will happen when I start all those back up again?
Thanks SAS.
0 -
Gentianviolet & Minus two------Thanks
What impressed me with members suggestions when I did a look at all suggestions about page 8(?). Was that the the apricots and prunes ---stewed were the most successful. But just as you say Gentian when there's a problem and things aren't working, you went back and took another look. A phrase I coined in the 70's was "Just when you think you know something, it's good to go back and take another look"When a thread is technical, it reaches a "What else can you say point". To often I think newbies, may not realize reading from the beginning on technical threads has a wealth of info. We" bump", and they think it's a dead thread..
When I did this thread in the beginning, BCO didn't have a Constipation thread. They do now for some while, but they are proper, no puns. We, bless us, are irreverent and can make jokes.
Here's to a better go
0 -
Venetian & MinusTwo. There are puns here that I would swear were stolen by the TP industry.this is one------:) Here's to a better go
0 -
Genetian----------Pm me if you have need of help. I'm a retired nurse with 40 years of experience. I bridge the old and new and if I don't know I research i.e about Senna............read till my eyes turned brown.
0 -
SAS - thanks for my Saturday laughs!!!
I agree - There are several threads I started back & read from the beginning and still go back to when I can't remember or want to try something different. This one is a real keeper.
0 -
Sas - this has been in my favorites since you started it. Although at that time fiber pills were what worked, but that only lasted for a year or two. Currently the 1 cup applesauce, 1/2 cup prune juice mixed with Go Raw original granola (my personal granola choice because it has 6 g of fiber) has been the perfect answer. If or when that no longer works I will start all over on page one of the constipation thread and try a new one. I will send you a PM; I do have a few questions. LOL at your comment of your eyes turning brown. Thanks
0 -
I need some help how to control the bleeding from C, I have hemarroids, but the bleeding seems to be inside the passage. I 've been taking colace, activia yogurt and papayas. Should I take more meds, I am scared to turn it into D. Any suggestions appreciated.
0 -
Blueflowers --sorry you have such a problem. NOT comfortable, pain in the patutty.
There are several things that need to be addressed with your post
1. Has a GI(gastrointestinal doc) evaluated you? They are the most qualified. If there are hemorrhoids, that means there is enough pressure within the lower colon to cause diverticulosis. The GI doc would recommend a colonoscopy. To rule out diverticulosis or polyps which can also bleed. I wrote extensively on diverticulosis and diverticulitis on page one.
2. In your case, I suggest reading the entire thread, jot down some notes to talk with GI doc. I'm pretty positive you have already read the entire thread, but now your specific goal is to identify those that are bleeding or have a bleeding history. In the presence of bleeding a high fiber is not good. Reason too much pressure on an area that's weak for what ever reason. This could lead to rupture. You would want to be on a low residue diet until you get direct orders from the GI doc.
3. I would like to give you a suggestion(s), but until I hear that the GI doc has given you the go ahead to use high fiber, miralax, you are at risk for problems.
4. In the short haul until you see your GI doc. Are you taking any drugs that cause constipation? How often do you take the Colace? Papaya, there was something that I wrote a few pages back. Something I hesitated about papaya. See if you can find it
How much water? Did you try the warm water with lemon in early am? Have you had C all you life? Did it start with BC tx.? Blueflowers, you may post back that the whole GI workup has been done. If so what did the doc say to do? I'll keep an eye out sassy
0 -
Thanks sas-schatzi…,
I just saw my pcp for another issue, and talked to her regarding the C - she advised me to have lots of fluids, metamucil or something and colace for now, I am in the middle of my chemo treatment. Once this is done I will see a GI.I have gone through this thread but have to read it again with more attention.
I had the hemorrhoids before but didn't bleed regularly, now with chemo and everything I have to deal with so much stuff.
0
