Patient/caregiver was instructed upon complications of radiation therapy for prostate cancer treatment as follows:
As prostate gland is located close to urinary system (urinary bladder & urethra), sexual organs (penis), and bowels (rectum & anus), radiation therapy for prostate cancer can have an impact on these neighboring organs, thus affecting urine flow, bowel movements, and sexual performance. Complications of radiation therapy for prostate cancer treatment include
- Weak stream of urine and reduced urine output volume: Inflammation and damage to the urethra from radiation treatment can lead to narrowing down of urethra. This can result in weak stream of urine and pose difficulty to pass urine at a constant pace, leading to reduced volume of urine output during urination.
- Urinary incontinence: Radiation treatment measures could damage the nerves controlling the urine flow and muscles in the pelvic floor helping with maintaining continence. This leads to urinary incontinence with episodes of urine leakage.
- Lower abdominal pain & discomfort: Inflammation and irritation of lower abdominal structures, such as, rectum and anus, can result in pain & discomfort.
- Rectal bleeding and diarrhea: Inflammation and irritation of rectum and anus due to damage from radiation treatment can cause rapid bowel movements. Faster bowels can lead to softer stools and diarrhea, with some fluid & electrolyte loss. Individuals could also develop rectal ulcers and consequent bleeding episodes.
