Colon cancer constipation

Constipation is a frequently reported problem in the elderly, probably the result of improper diets (low in fiber and liquids), diminished abdominal waU mnscular strength, and possibly diminished physical activity. However, as previously stated, the frequency of bowel movements is not decreased with normal aging. In addition, diseases that may cause constipation, such as colon cancer and diverticulitis, are more common with increasing age. Table 36-5 lists common causes of constipation in specific disease states. 

Prevent constipation due to the production of short-chain fatty acids, improve absorption of calcium and other minerals, reduce risk of colon cancer... 

Abuse of laxatives can lead to a number of health problems, including imbalances in the levels of minerals (electrolytes) in the body, which can lead to dehydration, tremors, weakness, blurry vision, and kidney damage. Laxatives can also change the way nerve endings in the colon work, which can cause the laxative abuser to need more laxatives to have a bowel movement. Other problems with the digestive system that can result from laxative abuse include an increased risk of colon infection (resulting from a loss of the protective cover that lines the colon), rectal pain, gas, and severe constipation. Finally, laxative abuse may lead to both cancerous and noncancerous tumors in the bowel. 

Meperidine differs from morphine in that it has far less antitussive effect and little constipative effect. The drug is particularly useful in cancer patients and in pulmonary patients, in whom the cough reflex must remain intact. However, it does have more seizure-inducing activity than morphine. Although meperidine produces spasms of the biliary tract and colon, such spasms are of shorter duration than those produced by morphine. 

A high-fiber diet is effective in the prevention of constipation and diverticulitis. Claims also have been made that such diets prevent cancer of the colon. Such allegations require further study. 

Figure 106,2. Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction (OBD). Opioids increase intestinal fluid absorption, inhibit intestinal secretions and peristalsis, and block propulsive movements in the colon. Constipation and other symptoms associated with OBD occur in 15-90% of cancer patients and may be more distressful and debilitating than pain. Tolerance rarely develops to these symptoms and traditional therapy including stimulants, lubricants, arxf bulk laxatives may not be effective.

Dietary fibre is a beneficial material for constipation, gastric and duodenal ulcers, haemorrhoids, rectum and colon (colorectal) cancer, commonly known as bowel cancer, and other diseases. Eating foods high in fibre is recommended for the modulation of glucose levels in blood serum and in some forms of diabetes (especially type 2 diabetes). This also has the effect of reducing serum cholesterol level, and can thus help to prevent cardiovascular diseases. The effect is explained by the reduced absorption of cholesterol from viscous foods and by cholesterol binding to fibre. 

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