Post side effects from Radio Therapy for Bladder Cancer

Hi

My father has recently finished his radio therapy for bladder cancer, and is now suffering from stomach cramps, feeling sick and sickness. 

Not really eating much and felling not very well. He is currently on anti biotics for a water infection, but on day 4 and his stomach is not improving. 

Just wanted to see if anyone can give some guidance as he is in his 80's and his wife is clearly worried. 

Does this sound like typical post side affects for this kind of radio therapy treatment? 

Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. 

  • Hi there and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about your father's situation and appreciate what a difficult time this must be for him.

    Side effects can vary in type and severity for each patient and the lack of appetite and feeling sick aren't unusual after radiotherapy to the bladder.

    It is important that he drinks plenty and eats little and often if he can. If he is struggling with this he may benefit from some supplement drinks to keep up his energy levels. His GP should be able to prescribe these for him as well as medication to ease the nausea.

    Side effects can continue and worsen for a couple of weeks after radiotherapy has finished and then will gradually settle down. However if they don't or your Father becomes less well he should be assessed by his doctor, just to be on the safe side. Out of hours NHS 111 can be contacted.

    I hope this helps and that your father starts feeling better in himself soon.

    Best wishes

    Naomi