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
- Blood in urine: During the immediate post-radiation phase, damage to the prostate gland and neighboring structures due to treatment measures can result in bleeding in urine, that gives urine a pinkish-red or bright red color.
- Painful urination: Damage to the urinary system with radiation therapy can result in painful urination or dysuria.
- Erectile dysfunction: The nerves and blood vessels controlling the penile erection, in close proximity to the prostate, could be compromised with radiation treatment measures for prostate cancer. This can result in erectile dysfunction and impotence, contributing to reduced libido or sex drive, poor performance during the act, difficult orgasm, and impaired ejaculation. All these impairments can culminate towards male infertility.
- Frequent urge and nocturia: Irritation of the urinary bladder due to damage from radiation treatment can cause frequent bladder contractions, increased urge to urinate, thus contributing to frequency. Increased frequency, especially during the night (nocturia) can lead to sleep disturbance and multiple restroom trips.
