Radiotherapy

Lindsey

Radiotherapy is the use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, while doing as little harm as possible to normal cells. The treatment is often given for a few minutes each weekday for between 4–6 weeks.

During the treatment period you may have changes in how your bowel works such as diarrhea, or passing wind: these side effects can sometimes be reduced by avoiding particular foods. Towards the end of the treatment period you may have blistering and soreness of the skin around the anal area, and possibly in the groin areas too. Extreme tiredness, or fatigue, is also a common side effect of radiotherapy for anal cancer.

These side effects usually decrease gradually once the treatment has ended, but it may take some months for skin changes to go back to normal. A few people find that the way their bowel works is permanently altered. It is important to discuss this with your doctor or specialist nurse as it is often possible to find ways of reducing any problems. Your doctor or a dietitian at the hospital can give you further advice.

Other potential side effects that can occur after radiotherapy for anal cancer include narrowing of the vagina (vaginal stenosis), and vaginal dryness. To help prevent this, women will be asked to use a vaginal dilator with a lubricating jelly to keep the vaginal walls open and supple. Some women may also need to use lubricating jelly during sexual intercourse.

Infertility (loss of the ability to have children) can also be a side effect of radiotherapy. If you are concerned about your risks of being infertile following treatment, it is a good idea to discuss this issue with your specialist before starting treatment.

Andi

Bowel changes will only happen if your bowl or intestines are being treated with radiotherapy. Same goes for infertility, which now days they can block out the ovaries or testes. Just thought i would share that for those going through it... each side effect depends on the area being treated. Some get through treatment with none at all

Lindsey

Andi - thank you for making that more clear! I re-read through what I had posted and what I had typed is a little perplexing. I appreciate you clearing that up.

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