Hello,

Constipation is a common symptom which can have many causes. Your ibs can certainly add to your symptoms. Docusate is certainly helpful, and deilant can have a side effect of diarrhea. Chemotherapy for lymphoma can also have bowel slowing as a side effect. You can learn more about the treatment and causes of constipation online at www.miralax.com. Although this is a pharmacology website, the summary is excellent.

My suggestions to you would be to add to your medications including metamucil and/or miralax for now. Both miralax and metamucil are excellent for the bowels and help to avoid constipation. Mineral oil can also be helpful. You need to mention your troubles to your physician who may need to adjust your medications. Staying well hydrated also improves the symptoms of constipation. Eating substantial amounts of normal fruits and vegetables is also recommended for bowel maintenance.

Good luck.

Docusate is not effective to help you move your bowels. You need to try an oral purgative like Miralax or MOM and/or a stimulant laxative like dulcolax.

Ideally your oncologist should be made aware of these symptoms immediately so they can provide treatment. What’s causing this recently worsened constipation is what you first need to determine. Is it due to reduced food intake from chemotherapy or is it something more serious, that’s what your oncology team must determine.