Physical Health

Bowel Symptoms

(Diarrhoea / Constipation / Stoma care)

Diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion and heartburn can all be side effects of taking cancer drugs. But there are things you can do to help you cope.

Some chemotherapy  drugs and targeted cancer drugs  cause constipation. This is because they can affect the nerve supply to the gut. 

Unfortunately, some anti sickness drugs and painkillers can make this worse.

Increasing the amount of fibre you eat, drinking plenty of fluids, and being more physically active can help reduce the risk of constipation.

Please see the link below for more information

The Bladder & Bowel Community, help support the millions of people in the UK who are living with conditions that affect their bladder or bowel

Stoma Care 

A stoma after cancer treatment can be temporary (to let the bowel heal) or permanent. Waste passes through the abdominal opening into a pouch. Management involves regular bag changes, skin care, and tailored nutrition. Many people return to normal activities with support from specialist nurses

Temporary vs. Permanent Stomas

  • Temporary stoma: Used to give the lower bowel time to rest and heal after cancer surgery, often reversed in a later operation
  • Permanent stoma: Needed if the lower rectum or anus cannot be saved or if disease extent requires a complete resection

Daily Care and Skin Health

  • Pouch maintenance: Empty drainable pouches when one-third full and change systems regularly to prevent leaks
  • Peristomal skin: Clean gently with warm water and pat dry to avoid sore, irritated skin around the stoma site
  • Bleeding: Minor bleeding when wiping the stoma is normal, but persistent heavy bleeding requires medical contact

Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Fiber and hydration: Gradually increase fiber to firm up output, and drink plenty of fluids
  • Blockage avoidance: Be cautious with high-risk foods like nuts, corn, or tough skins, especially with an ileostomy
  • Support networks: Connect with a stoma care nurse or local patient groups for practical advice and confidence-building

Please see below for more information

Rectal bleeding

Rectal bleeding after cancer treatment is often caused by radiation proctitis (inflammation and fragile blood vessels from pelvic radiation), surgical site changes, anal fissures, haemorrhoids, or a return of the cancer

Common Causes

  • Radiation Proctitis: Pelvic radiation damages the lining of the rectum. It creates weak, new blood vessels that bleed easily. This can start months or years after treatment. As noted by the National Cancer Institute, “Radiation proctitis can be acute or chronic.”
  • Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids: Constipation or hard stools from chemotherapy or pain medications can tear the delicate anal tissue.
  • Surgery and Strictures: Scar tissue from bowel or rectal surgery can crack or bleed during bowel movements.
  • Cancer Recurrence: New or returning tumors in the colon, rectum, or anus can cause bleeding and changes in bowel habits.
  • Infections or Colitis: Inflammation of the large intestine from low immunity or secondary infections can lead to blood in the stool

 Please see your GP if you have rectal bleeding