Digestive System Side Effects

21.03.2024

DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SIDE EFFECTS IN CANCER TREATMENT

The effects of cancer treatment on the digestive system can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, in particular, are the most common causes of these side effects. During the treatment process, patients may frequently encounter problems such as nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, sores in the mouth (mucositis), diarrhea, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux, gas and bloating. These symptoms occur due to the treatment's effect on cells in the body and hormonal and metabolic changes that affect the digestive system. Management of these side effects is critical to improve patients' quality of life and ensure that the treatment process is more effective. Physicians usually intervene in these side effects with various methods such as nausea medications, dietary adjustments and good oral hygiene practices. Closely monitoring the nutritional status of patients and providing the necessary support can significantly affect the success of the treatment process. For this reason, it is of great importance for patients undergoing cancer treatment to share the digestive side effects they experience with their doctors and to follow the recommended treatment protocols.

Image 1: During cancer treatment, many different side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhea may occur due to the digestive system.

Examples of drugs that can cause digestive system side effects in cancer treatment:

Alkylating Agents: Medicines such as cyclophosphamide can cause nausea and vomiting.

Antimetabolites: Medicines such as methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Platinum Based Drugs: Cisplatin and carboplatin may cause nausea and vomiting.

Topoisomerase Inhibitors: Irinotecan may cause side effects on the digestive system, such as diarrhea.

While these drugs target cancer cells, they may also have an effect on the digestive system. Management of these side effects is important during the treatment process.

Image 2: During the cancer treatment process, procedures such as endoscopy and colonoscopy may be performed on patients who have resistant digestive system side effects despite treatment.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF SIDE EFFECTS?

Nausea and Vomiting: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can produce toxins that stimulate the body's vomiting center. Nausea and vomiting may occur during or after treatment. In treatment, various anti-emetic drugs are used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting. These medications can be given before and after treatment. Alternative methods such as acupuncture, relaxation techniques and hypnosis can sometimes be effective.

Anorexia:The treatment may affect the sense of taste or reduce patients' desire to eat. It is a decrease in interest in food and a rapid feeling of satiety while eating. In treatment, eating small, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day can help manage loss of appetite. A dietitian can make customized recommendations to improve nutritional status.

Mouth Sores (Mucositis): Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can irritate the oral mucosa. Painful wounds and the risk of infection of the wounds may occur in the mouth and on the lips. It is important to use regular oral care and alcohol-free mouthwash solutions in treatment. Pain-relieving gargle solutions and topical painkillers can be used.

Diarrhea: The treatment can irritate the intestinal mucosa and accelerate the digestive process. Watery defecation and the need to go to the toilet frequently may occur. In treatment, anti-diarrheal medications such as loperamide may be effective in controlling diarrhea. Avoiding fibrous foods and increasing fluid intake may help.

Constipation: Some chemotherapies, painkillers, and dehydration can slow bowel movements. Side effects such as difficulty in defecation and hard stools may occur. In treatment, various laxatives and stool softeners may be prescribed to relieve constipation. Drinking plenty of water, eating fibrous foods and exercising regularly can regulate bowel movements.

Gastrointestinal Reflux: Backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, stomach contents back into the esophagus. There may be complaints such as a burning sensation in the chest and bitter water coming to the mouth. In treatment, gastroprotective medications can relieve reflux symptoms by reducing stomach acid. Changes such as not eating before bed, avoiding excess weight, and sleeping on a high pillow may be helpful.

Gas and Bloating: Imbalance of the digestive system and sensitivity to some foods. There may be complaints such as gas, bloating, and discomfort in the abdominal area. Avoiding gas-causing foods and eating slowly may help in treatment. In some cases, probiotic supplements can help balance the digestive system.

These side effects may vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual situation of the patient. Therefore, the recommendations of the doctor or oncology team are essential in the management of side effects. Nutritional support and symptom management during the treatment process can significantly improve the patient's quality of life.