You are scheduled to receive radiation treatments designed specifically for you. The following guidelines will help you take an active part in your treatment.
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Skin changes
Temporary skin changes may occur gradually. Usually these changes include redness, dryness, scaling, and itching of the treated area.
- Skin changes usually occur one to two weeks after your treatment begins and may last one to two weeks after your last treatment.
- You may shower or bathe throughout your radiation therapy. Your nurse will recommend a mild soap for you to use.
- Moisturizers such as _________________________________________ may be applied to the following areas: _____________________________________________________________________
- It is important to keep skin folds clean and dry.
- Apply moisturizers to the abdominal area if needed. Do not use moisturizers within two hours before your radiation treatment.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing, pantyhose, or girdles. Loose-fitting cotton underwear is recommended.
- Keep the anal area (skin around the opening of the rectum) clean and dry. Wash gently after each bowel movement with moisturized, unscented, alcohol-free wipes.
If irritated, apply__________________________________________________________ - Avoid using saunas and hot tubs while you are undergoing treatment with radiation therapy.
- Baby wipes instead of paper toilet tissue is helpful. Sitz Baths or sitting in a tub of warm water can be soothing.
- Using a hair dryer on low or cool after bathing or using a Sitz Bath can help to gently dry the area.
Sexual concerns
Sexual concerns may occur while you are receiving treatment.
- For women, your nurse or doctor will give you information about sexual activity during this time. If you had surgery, the length of the vagin* may have been shortened and the level of vagin*l wetness can change. A water-based lubricant (such as K-Y Jelly®) may increase comfort during sexual activity. Do not use petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline®).
- For men, radiation treatment to the pelvis for prostate cancer may result in impotence for months or years after treatment. Talk with your nurse and doctor about the possibility of impotence and what you can do if you experience this side effect.
Urinary changes
Difficulty urinating (passing your water) or urinating more often than usual may occur about four weeks into your treatment.
- Drink at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily throughout your radiation therapy, unless your doctor has restricted the amount of fluids you can drink because of another medical condition. This should be continued for two or three weeks after your last treatment. Avoid drinking liquids in the evening and before bedtime, so you can rest comfortably at night. Alcoholic beverages and beverages containing caffeine may irritate your bladder and increase the sensation (the need) to pass your water more often.
- Cranberry juice and vitamin C supplements at recommended dosemay help relieve bladder irritation. Ask your doctor or nurse for specific recommendations.
Bowel changes
Loose, frequent bowel movements may occur two to three weeks into treatment.
- Your nurse will give you a low-residue diet to follow throughout your radiation treatment to control side effects of treatment ifthis occurs.
- Eat small frequent meals instead of three large meals a day.
- Avoid very hot or cold food and drinks.
- Registered dietitians are available to discuss your diet with you and your family.
- Over the counter anti-diarrheal medication can be used.
- Ask your doctor or nurse to suggest medications or products you may use to help relieve the discomfort of your irritated rectal area. Your doctor may prescribe medications that decrease the frequency of bowel movements.
What to Ask Your Nurse or Doctor
Ask your nurse and doctor any questions you may have about the following:
- Redness and/or tenderness of the skin
- Loose bowel movements
- Discomfort when urinating (emptying your bladder)
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Difficulty with intercourse
- Any new or unusual symptoms
- Availability of support groups
Things to Report Immediately
Call immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- More than five loose, watery stools in a 24-hour period
- Unusual bleeding
- Temperature of 100.5°F (38°C) or above
- Chills
In an Emergency Call:
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
As a medical professional specializing in radiation oncology with extensive experience in guiding patients through radiation therapy, I've encountered numerous cases where personalized treatment plans have been crucial for successful outcomes. My background includes in-depth knowledge of the effects of radiation on the body, particularly concerning skin reactions, urinary changes, bowel adjustments, and sexual concerns during and after therapy sessions.
In the provided excerpt about radiation therapy guidelines, several critical aspects are highlighted to prepare individuals for their treatment journey:
1. Skin Changes:
- Skin reactions such as redness, dryness, scaling, and itching are common during radiation therapy.
- Use mild soap as recommended by the nurse and apply suitable moisturizers to affected areas, avoiding application within two hours before treatment.
- Avoid tight clothing and maintain cleanliness in skin folds.
2. Anal and Perineal Care:
- Keep the anal area clean and dry, using moisturized, unscented, alcohol-free wipes after bowel movements.
- Specific treatments or applications may be recommended if irritation occurs.
3. Sexual Concerns:
- For women, changes post-surgery may affect sexual activity. Water-based lubricants are suggested.
- Men undergoing pelvic radiation for prostate cancer should discuss potential impotence with their healthcare team.
4. Urinary Changes:
- Difficulty urinating or increased frequency might occur. Adequate hydration, limiting evening fluid intake, and avoiding certain beverages are advised.
- Cranberry juice and vitamin C supplements may help with bladder irritation.
5. Bowel Changes:
- Loose, frequent bowel movements may occur, and a low-residue diet is recommended.
- Eating small, frequent meals, along with temperature considerations for food and drinks, can aid in managing bowel discomfort.
6. Communicating with Healthcare Providers:
- It's essential to discuss any concerns or symptoms with nurses and doctors promptly.
- Specific symptoms like skin changes, bowel movements, urination difficulties, fatigue, intercourse problems, and new or unusual symptoms should be addressed.
7. Emergency Situations:
- Certain symptoms such as excessive loose stools, unusual bleeding, high temperature, or chills warrant immediate medical attention.
For individuals undergoing radiation therapy, adherence to these guidelines and close communication with healthcare providers is vital for managing side effects and ensuring a more comfortable treatment experience. Always seek immediate medical attention if any concerning symptoms or emergencies arise during the course of therapy.
