Chemo side effects

My wife in the 2nd week of her 6th chemo session of carboplatin, paclitaxel and avastin. Most of the side effects are predictable and have been increasing in severity over the sessions. For the last few days she has been subject to very painful occasions of bloating and severe intestinal gas pain. Don't find these in any of the listings of side effects other than "abdominal pain".

Anyone know if this is a common side effect and what can be done about it. She was in the hospital 2 weeks ago with a case of severe neutropenia and they gave here Metamucil twice a day. Does fiber have anything to do with it?

Thanks if I get a come back.

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  Bloating and gas pains are common adverse events in patients undergoing any kind of chemotherapy. The stress from the treatment itself can either increase acid production (which can lead to increased gas in the bowels), or cause the bowels to stop moving (which also leads to accumulation of gas).  Some supportive medication used for controlling chemotherapy-induced vomiting (e.g. metochlopramide) can also cause bowel movement to slow down.  The chemotherapy can also cause some electrolyte problems like decrease in serum potassium and calcium, which can also lead to bowel paralysis and gas accumulation.  Since there are a lot of possible causes, it's best to have your wife assessed by her doctor so that the proper treatment can be given.

[chiefpace]

Thanks much for the clear and concise explanation. Will follow up tomorrow with the oncologist but you made her feel better. Thanks much.