"What Should I Do About Constipation After Rectal Cancer Surgery?"
Improving Constipation After Rectal Cancer Surgery
Constipation that occurs after rectal cancer surgery can be alleviated through dietary adjustments, moderate exercise, medication, and physical therapy. If these methods prove ineffective, prompt medical attention should be sought, and appropriate treatment methods should be selected under medical guidance. Here are some strategies:
General Treatments
- Dietary Adjustments: Patients can incorporate more fiber-rich foods into their daily diet, such as celery and dragon fruit, which can promote gastrointestinal motility and alleviate constipation symptoms. Additionally, consuming moderate amounts of honey water or yogurt can also help lubricate the intestines and facilitate bowel movements.
- Moderate Exercise: Based on individual conditions, patients can engage in physical activities like jogging or walking, which can enhance blood circulation and strengthen the body, contributing to a faster recovery.
- Medication: For severe constipation, patients can take medications like lactulose oral solution or Mare's Soft Capsules under medical supervision. These medications lubricate the intestines and can be complemented with the use of glycerine suppositories for bowel assistance.
- Physical Therapy: Acupuncture at specific acupoints can stimulate intestinal motility, aiding in bowel evacuation. Additionally, abdominal massage, with clockwise circular motions centered on the navel, can also help alleviate constipation symptoms.
Other Methods
Some patients may experience constipation due to anastomotic stenosis post-surgery. In such cases, endoscopic balloon dilation or stent implantation may be necessary, and in severe instances, re-surgery for anastomotic resection may be considered. It is recommended that rectal cancer patients maintain a positive mindset, avoid undue stress, and regularly attend follow-up appointments to monitor their condition's progression.
