How to manage the side effects of radiotherapy?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have just completed my first round of radiation therapy for locally advanced prostate cancer. I am on hormone therapy as well. I have been experiencing significant fatigue, frequent loose stools, and some rectal bleeding after bowel movements. The radiation oncologist says these are normal side effects, but I am worried about completing all 39 planned sessions. My most recent PSA is down to 0.9 ng/mL. How long do these side effects typically last, and what can I do to manage them better? I am also concerned about the long-term impact on sexual function, as I am still sexually active. Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Most of the side effects are mild and tolerable. Potential side effects of external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer may include:

Frequent urination.
Difficult or painful urination.
Blood in the urine.
Urinary leakage.
Abdominal cramping.
Diarrhea.
Painful bowel.
Rectal bleeding.
Rectal leaking.
Fatigue.
Sexual dysfunction, including diminished erectile function or a decrease in the volume of semen.
Skin reactions (similar to a sunburn).
Secondary cancers in the region of the radiation.

The side effects tend to start a week or two after radiotherapy begins. They gradually develop during the treatment and for a couple of weeks after treatment ends. However, they usually start to improve around two weeks after treatment finishes.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.