The waterworks after radiotherapy of the prostate

I'm Philip, 58 with an African heritage, I asked for a PSA in February when I noticed a blood test result that suggested anaemia, the anaemia was dealt with, but on the second blood test, 7 weeks later, the PSA reading was slightly out of range. My GP conducted a digital rectal examination and found my prostate was enlarged and that began a journey of a multiparametric MRI in April, a transperineal prostate biopsy in May and the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma that I received through the careless handling of medical letters before I had spoken to the concerned consultant.

I was recommended for active treatment and it was through reading other medical letters that I found they termed it malignant too, though still contained in the prostate gland. I opted for radical radiotherapy, 20 sessions which concluded 4 weeks ago, I did not have to undergo any hormone therapy as my testosterone levels were considered quite low. 

I tolerated the chemotherapy well, but the aftermath has been lots of fatigue, my voice very faint that my work colleagues have offered to get me all the apparel for a drag act, and then the waterworks for which I take medication to ease the flow.

I guess I do not use support services as well as I should. I have also decided to take some time off to fully recuperate as I worked through treatment and after.

Thank you for accepting my request to join the chat forum.

  • Hello Philip,
    Thank you for sharing your story with us. It sounds like you’ve been through quite a difficult time and it’s very understandable that you’d want some time to fully rest and recover.
    It’s good to hear that you've tolerated the treatment well, though it sounds like it’s left you with some challenging after effects. Taking a break sounds like a wise choice, especially after managing to work through such a demanding period. Hopefully, some dedicated time for yourself will help you regain your energy and strength.
    Do feel free to reach out here whenever you need, whether it’s to share more of your experiences or just to have a chat. There are many here who can relate to the ups and downs of recovery, hopefully some of them will stop by soon to chat with you.
    Wishing you all the best as you continue to recuperate.
    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator