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.

• Reference Home treatment for nausea or vomiting includes watching for and treating early signs of Reference dehydration Opens New Window, 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 Reference medicines to control nausea and vomiting. For more information on how to deal with these side effects, see:

  Reference Reference Cancer: Controlling Nausea and Vomiting From Chemotherapy.

• Reference Home treatment for pain can range from cold packs and over-the-counter medicines to massage and meditation. For more information, see the topic Reference Cancer Pain.
• Reference 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 medicines for your diarrhea.
• Reference 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.
• Reference 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 Reference tips to relieve sleep problems may be helpful.

Managing stress

Learning that you have colorectal cancer and being treated for it can be very stressful. There are steps you can take to Reference reduce your stress. You may want to talk with family or friends. Some people find that spending time alone is what they need.

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.

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

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.

Having cancer can change your life in many ways. For help with managing these changes, see the topic Reference Getting Support When You Have Cancer.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.