Colorectal Cancer, Metastatic or Recurrent

Home treatment may be all that is needed to help manage the side effects that often accompany metastatic or recurrent colon cancer or its treatment. Healthy habits such as eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep and exercise may help control your symptoms. Be sure to follow any instructions your doctor has given you.

• Home treatment for nausea or vomiting includes watching for and treating early signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, sticky saliva, having smaller than usual amounts of urine, or having urine that is dark yellow. Your doctor also may prescribe medicines to control nausea and vomiting. For more information on how to deal with these side effects, see:

  Cancer: Controlling nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy.

• Home treatment for pain can range from cold packs and over-the-counter drugs and to massage and meditation. For more information, see the topic Cancer Pain.
• Home treatment for diarrhea includes resting your stomach by not eating for several hours or until you feel better, and watching for signs of dehydration. Check with your doctor before using any drugs for your diarrhea.
• Home treatment for constipation includes getting gentle exercise, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and foods that contain fiber. Check with your doctor before using a laxative.
• Treatment for fatigue includes getting extra rest while you are having chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Let your symptoms be your guide. You may be able to keep your usual routine and just get some extra sleep. Fatigue is often worse at the end of treatment or just after treatment is over. If you find you have trouble sleeping, some tips to relieve sleep problems may be helpful.

Managing your emotions

Learning that you have colorectal cancer and being treated for it can be very stressful.

If your emotions interfere with your ability to make decisions, it is important to talk to your doctor about them. Your cancer treatment center may offer counseling services, support groups, and classes such as yoga. You may be able to reduce your stress by expressing your feelings to others. Learning relaxation techniques may also help you reduce your stress. Some people find that spending time alone is what they need.

Your feelings about your body may change after treatment. Dealing with your body image may involve talking openly about your worries with your partner and discussing your feelings with a health professional.

Contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society to find a support group. Talking with other people who have had similar experiences can be very helpful.