Diarrhea is frequent bowel movements with stools having a fluid consistency. Chemotherapy or radiation, medications, and sometimes emotional distress can cause diarrhea. It is not always possible to prevent diarrhea. If you have diarrhea, let your doctor or nurse know. If left untreated, diarrehea can lead to dehydration and loss of electrolytes.
Your goals
- Prevent dehydration.
- Prevent infection. See the section on infection for more information.
- Call for professional help when needed.
Urgent signs and symptoms- Call clinic or hospital operator NOW
- Constant or uncontrolled diarrhea
- Bloody, burgundy, or black stool
- Fever with abdominal or stomach cramping
Important signs and symptoms to report to your doctor or nurse
- New onset of diarrhea
- Diarrhea more than five times a day
- Mild abdominal stomach cramping
- Whole pills in the stool
What you can do at home
- Drink fluids (eight glasses a day unless you are fluid-restricted).
- Follow dietary recommendations (usually bland foods are recommended.) Note any food allergies or intolerances, and discuss them with the nurse, doctor, or dietitian.
- Wash hands often with warm water and soap.
- Keep rectal area clean with mild soap and water.
- Do not use ointment or creams on the rectal area, unless directed by the nurse or doctor.
- Use white, non-perfumed toilet paper.
Call for professional help when needed
- Be able to describe the type of diarrhea for the health care staff, including how often, consistency, color, and presence of cramping.
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