Post rectal cancer, lower back pain and dizziness

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Hi. 

I have survived stage three rectal cancer, after a July 2021 diagnosis. I went through Chemoradiotherapy, then had surgery to remove my tumour In February. After pathology,  my cancer was downgraded and I was informed it had not reached my lymph nodes. As such I needed no further chemotherapy. I had my temporary stoma reversed in August, and have been recovering well since. 

After the reversal I was very ill with urine infections and constant lower back pain, passing mucus daily. after two months this subsided and so I have since returned to work in November and have been getting stronger by the day. 

Over the weekend I have suffered the same symptoms again and quite a bit of dizziness. I have resisted strong pain medication so far which caused constipation, but im getting close to needing this again. 

its worrying me frankly. 

  • Dear NBG1,

    Thank you for getting in touch with us via the online community. My name is Penelope and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists.

    I am sorry to hear that you are having symptoms of concern including pain and dizziness. With any new or changing symptoms we would always suggest that you get advice from your hospital team, GP or NHS 111 today. If symptoms worsen you can also call 999 for more immediate medical advice.

     

    It is natural to be worried and frustrating for you to be feeling less well again. Sometimes people find that once they become stronger and start to do more after surgery, they experience something of a setback. Unfortunately, recovery from treatment for cancer can take time and is a gradual process.

     

    Please do get some further medical advice today.

     

    Best wishes,

     

    Penelope, Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Ref/ SMJ