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Coping with side effects of radiotherapy

Heathersy
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Hi Everyone 
About three months ago  I was told, completely out of the blue, that I had anal cancer. 
I have just finished 28 days of radiotherapy which went very well   I wondered if anyone had any help with the extreme soreness, great pain and difficulty in passing faeces etc  which continue after the end of the radiotherapy

..Many thanks. 

  • Welcome to the forum, Heathersy
    It’s great to hear that the radiotherapy itself went well, though the after-effects you’re describing must be incredibly tough to cope with.
    Many people here understand the soreness and discomfort that can linger after radiotherapy, and you’ll find you’re not alone in managing these sorts of side effects.
    You might find some helpful information on dealing with radiotherapy side effects in this guide from our website Side Effects of Radiotherapy. And of course, please don’t hesitate to ask or share more here as well – others may have found some small comforts or strategies that helped them manage similar symptoms.
    Take things gently, and know that this community is here for you every step of the way.
    Wishing you strength and relief as you continue to recover,
    Renata, Cancer Chat moderator
  • Offline

    When I had pelvic radiotherapy (albeit for a recurrence of prostate cancer rather than anal cancer) I suffered from radiation proctitis and I was recommended to use a product called Instillagel. (It's a mid local anaesthetic and antiseptic). I found the applicator (imagine a syringe without a needle) delivered too large a dose, so I resorted to applying a small amount externally to sphincter via toilet paper and this worked for me to reduce the soreness associated with bowel movements. Hope this helps.

  • Offline in reply to RDT

    Sorry ... Mild anaesthetic, not mid

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