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Aloha Sandy,
I'm assuming that you mean radiation treatment, like EBRT/IMRT. If you have hemorrhoids or urethra strictures, I suggest that you have them treated prior to EBRT. The stricture can be stretched before EBRT, and would minimize potential pain. The hemorrhoids will heal much faster if treated prior to EBRT. I had both and experienced so much pain, I wanted to quit during my third week. I was given valium & vicodon to make it through the treatment. Apparently about 10% of EBRT men have rectum & anal problems. Whether hemorrhoids have anything to do with my problems (two years out) is not clear. No. 2 incontenance is a real downer. Even using ultra-sound with the IMRT, my rectum was still damaged.
Try to discuss these problems before starting treatment with your oncologist.
Joe
I'm currently going through similar treatment for my prostate cancer which had spread to a lymph node and the seminal vesicles. I'm just starting my 3rd week of treatments-A total of 40 in all. So far I haven't experienced any side effects, although the doctor said I might start having a little diarrhea toward the end of the third week and to keep some Imodium around.
Since I'm a little ahead of you in the treatment stage, I'll try to keep you posted on any side effects that happen.
Thanks a lot for that. A bit reassaring to hear about experiences of someone in same position.
Whereabouts are you by the way? I am in Scotland myself.
I love travelling around and hope to still do some more at the weekends as the treatment is Mon - Frid.
limited I know but want to keep active)
Good luck Wendell