What Are the Complications of External Beam Radiation of the Prostate?
Prostate cancer affects one in six men in the United States, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. External beam radiation therapy is a common treatment option for the disease. If considering this type of radiation, be sure you are fully informed of possible side effects and complications.
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The Facts
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External beam radiation is one of two main delivery methods of radiation therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer. The six- to nine-week course is provided to the patient on a daily basis by machines that aim high-potency radiation beams at the prostate to destroy cancer cells.
Fatigue
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The most common complication of external beam radiation is mild to moderate fatigue. Most men, however, can continue their 40-hour work weeks during therapy.
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Urinary Risks
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Damage to the urethra--resulting in bleeding, irritation and pain, urinary frequency, urgency and burning--may be experienced as the course of treatment progresses. Bleeding and pain can continue long-term.
Bowel Function Complications
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The rectal wall receives peripheral damage as the therapy progresses, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. About 6 to 8 percent of patients develop inflammation of the rectum, leading to diarrhea, frequent stools, passing of mucus and enough rectal bleeding to require a tampon or pad.
Sexual Side Effects
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Therapy usually leads to erectile dysfunction and possibly to pubic hair loss. Radiation mutates sperm cells, so fathering a child after external beam therapy is extremely unlikely.
Warning
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According to the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, 2 percent of patients experience ulceration of the anal canal causing painful bowel movements and bleeding, and 1.5 percent of men need minor surgical intervention.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Sean Thornton
