Hi Discordia and Pauline,

I really feel for you both, although I don't have quite the same problems as you. 

Discordia, I had 25 sessions of pelvic radiotherapy and thiis caused immense pain when going to the toilet - as you describe, like passing glass! I was given some creams to help called Diprobase and Flamazine, though I'm not sure whether these can be applied internally. I was also prescribed laxido to help with the constipation. Not sure if this info is any good. Do you have contact details of a specialist nurse? Or your Oncologist's secretary to let them know just how much you're struggling.

Pauline, like you, I'm having bladder problems - brain and bladder not communicating! And I have to sit for ages before I can pass urine (have to run the taps too!) and rock backwards and forwards! 

I've seen a Urologist who  prescribed medication to 'relax' my bladder (Solefenacin) and he also put me on 3 hour toilet stops! Had to put an alarm on my phone! Most recently, I've been taught how to self catheterise, but unfortunately, I'm not a natural at it! Could you ask to be referred to the urology team?

I hate to think of you both suffering. Sending you both a big hug, Jo xx

Hi Meerkat, I am SO sorry you've had to go through radiation, and so much of it! I'm glad you know what I'm talking about though, most people just nod like they understand when I say it's literally like passing shards of glass, but most I don't think have experienced it. I'm going to see my oncologist next week and I'm going to beg him to help. I'd even do a surgery at this point, if it would help! although I'm sure that's out of the question because they told me before they have to stop my chemo for 6 weeks before my upcoming 3rd major abdominal surgery. CANCER SUCKS!!!!!!!!! words cannot even describe my hatred for it and the havoc it's wreaked on my body.

Hi Meerkat, I am SO sorry you've had to go through radiation, and so much of it! I'm glad you know what I'm talking about though, most people just nod like they understand when I say it's literally like passing shards of glass, but most I don't think have experienced it. I'm going to see my oncologist next week and I'm going to beg him to help. I'd even do a surgery at this point, if it would help! although I'm sure that's out of the question because they told me before they have to stop my chemo for 6 weeks before my upcoming 3rd major abdominal surgery. CANCER SUCKS!!!!!!!!! words cannot even describe my hatred for it and the havoc it's wreaked on my body.