Some chemotherapy drugs, radiation, and infection may cause diarrhea. This happens when food passes quickly through the bowel before the body gets enough vitamins, minerals, and water. Diarrhea can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

• Notify your physician or nurse if you are experiencing three or more watery stools per day.

• Drink 6-8 glasses of liquids per day. Drink fluids such as fruit juice, tea, Gatorade, and soup. Avoid carbonated beverages which can aggravate diarrhea.

• Eat small amounts of food and liquids throughout the day instead of three large meals. Suggested are eggs, rice, yogurt, broth, applesauce, broiled or baked chicken and fish, pasta, canned fruit, and cooked vegetables.

• Eat plenty of foods and liquids that contain salt (sodium) and potassium. These are minerals, important to the body, and are lost when you have diarrhea.

• If diarrhea is severe, a clear liquid diet for 12-24 hours may be advised by the physician or nurse.

• Avoid extremely hot or cold foods.

• Avoid milk or milk products.

• Avoid spicy or fatty foods and foods high in fiber such as whole grain bread and cereal, fresh fruit, raw vegetables, and popcorn. Also avoid rich pastries, caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco.

• Keep rectal area clean and dry using mild soap and water. If experiencing discomfort, try soaking in a tub of warm water.

• Over the counter anti-diarrhea products, such as Immodium A.D., may be used according to package directions. Ask your physician or nurse for further information.

• Diarrhea continues for longer than 24 hours despite measures taken
• Unable to urinate for 6 hours or more
• Fever (Temperature 100.6 F or above)
• Lightheadedness