How to detect radiation cystitis in prostate cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My dad is 71 and undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer. His PSA dropped from 24 to 7.8, but he has been feeling fatigued and urinating more often with slight pain. His creatinine was 1.6 last week. He is also on Tamsulosin for urinary symptoms and Zoladex injections for hormone suppression. Could the urinary symptoms be related to radiation cystitis or early obstructive uropathy from prostate swelling? How should the treatment plan be adjusted if renal function keeps trending downward or if his urinary symptoms get worse?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Radiation cystitis, an inflammation of the bladder caused by radiation therapy, can manifest with a variety of symptoms, including painful urination, frequent and urgent urination, blood in the urine (hematuria), and bladder spasms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some improving after treatment while others persist.

Radiation cystitis, a side effect of prostate cancer radiotherapy, can be managed with a variety of treatments that generally do not interfere with the ongoing prostate cancer treatment plan. These include conservative measures like increased hydration and pain relievers, as well as more advanced options like hyperbaric oxygen therapy or, in severe cases, surgical intervention.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.