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Changes in stools
Many patients with pancreatic cancer
experience diarrhea, constipation or both. Many medications can cause
or aggravate diarrhea and constipation. Diarrhea is a common problem and
presents as loose, watery, oily or foul-smelling stools that can be caused
by insufficient amounts of pancreatic enzymes in the intestines. This
leads to malabsorption as undigested food passes quickly through the digestive
tract. Constipation is a common problem, particularly in patients taking
pain medications. These medications slow the passage of food through the
intestines. If the digestive system works too slowly, it can cause stools
to become dry, hard and difficult to pass. Changes in diet and additional
medications may be necessary to eliminate or reduce the severity of these
symptoms.
For more detailed information
on diet issues related to pancreatic cancer, please contact a Patient
and Liaison Services (PALS) Associate and ask for the educational booklet,
Diet and Nutrition: Nutritional Concerns with Pancreatic Cancer.
Contact a PALS Associate toll-free at 877-272-6226 or email pals@pancan.org.
PALS Associates are available M-F 7am-5pm Pacific Time.
The information and services provided by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. are for informational purposes only. The information and services are not intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are ill, or suspect that you are ill, see a doctor immediately! The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network does not recommend nor endorse any specific physicians, products or treatments even though they may be mentioned on this site. In addition, please note that any personal information you provide to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network's associates during telephone and/or email consultations may be stored in a secure database to assist the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. in providing you with the best service possible. Portions of the constituent data stored in this database may be used to inform future programs and services of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc., and may be provided in aggregate form to third parties to guide future pancreatic cancer research and treatment efforts. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. will not provide personal identifying information (such as your name or contact information) to third parties without your advanced written consent. 111230 |
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