Radiotherapy for prostate cancer, now coughing

My 72 year old grandad has prostate cancer and has had hormone injections and is currently getting radiotherapy every weekday. Since the start of his treatment (well maybe a few days in) he has had a really bad cough with mucus and chokes really badly. He says he doesn't cough at the hospital. It's not covid as he's been tested. Could this be a side effect or something more? 

  • Hi and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to hear about your grandad and can imagine it's not an easy time.

    It doesn't sound likely that it would be down to the radiotherapy as the rays are only directed to the area around the prostate gland and should not affect the lungs. It's possible that it may be an uncommon side effect from the hormone injections, but having said that, it may also be something like a chest infection.

    It's best he makes an appointment with the GP and/or  either mentions it at his next visit to the radiotherapy clinic or ask to speak with his specialist nurse. Someone could listen in to his chest to check for infection,  but it's important to get it checked out and for his hospital team to be aware of it.

    Do give us a call if you would like to talk things through with us-  on Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday

    Kind Regards

    Wanda