Cervical Cancer Series 13: Managing Side Effects During Radiation Therapy
When you begin radiation therapy for cervical cancer, you may be just as concerned about side effects as you are about the treatment itself. “Will the treatment be difficult to tolerate?” “Could I have ongoing diarrhea or discomfort when urinating?” “Will all the side effects disappear once treatment is over?” Radiation therapy does not affect everyone in the same way. The type and severity of side effects can vary depending on the area being treated, the radiation dose, the type of treatment, whether chemotherapy is given at the same time, and your overall health. Because radiation therapy for cervical cancer usually targets the pelvic area, nearby healthy tissues and organs—including the bowel, bladder, skin, and vagina—may also be affected. Fatigue is another common problem during treatment. However, having side effects does not mean you simply have to endure them. Knowing what changes may occur, managing symptoms appropriately, and telling your treatment team when necessary can he...