Side Effects Of Internal Radiation For Endometrial Cancer

Radiation therapy may also be given as implants temporarily inserted into the vagina a procedure known as brachytherapy.

Side effects of internal radiation for endometrial cancer. It uses a radiation source that s usually sealed in a small holder called an implant. Side effects depend on the type of radiation therapy used. The side effects of radiation therapy may include fatigue diarrhea urinary problems and vaginal scarring or dryness. Because the radiation therapy is administered to the pelvis though there are certain side effects that are common among these patients.

Episcleral brachytherapy in which the radiation source is attached to the eye. You may not have all of the effects mentioned. Common side effects of radiation therapy include tiredness upset stomach or loose stools. Side effects of internal radiotherapy.

Severe fatigue which may not start until about 2 weeks after treatment begins is also common. Internal radiation therapy brachytherapy allows a higher dose of radiation in a smaller area than might be possible with external radiation treatment. They are usually mild and last for a few days or weeks. Side effects tend to be worse if you re having chemo along with the radiation.

Side effects of radiation therapy short term side effects. Radiation therapy to the pelvis is commonly used to treat women with lower gastrointestinal tract cancers as well as gynecologic cancers such as cervical cancer ovarian cancer and uterine cancer. Diarrhea is common but usually can be controlled with over the counter medicines. Side effects of radiation therapy will depend mainly on the size of the area being treated the specific area or organs being treated the total dose of radiation and the treatment schedule.

Women undergoing radiation therapy for cervical or uterine cancer have a much higher incidence of serious side effects than previously realized according to results from a new clinical trial. For endometrial cancer the radiation is usually directed at the entire pelvis. For example radiation can be placed in the vagina to treat cervical or endometrial cancer. This means there are fewer side effects.

This information may help women and their clinicians more accurately weigh the potential benefits versus harms of adjuvant therapy said the trial s. Side effects of internal radiotherapy brachytherapy tend to happen about 1 to 2 weeks after treatment. Side effects can include. Everyone is different and the side effects vary from person to person.

For example with brachytherapy the radiation mainly affects the parts of the vagina in contact with the cylinder.