Prostate EBRT

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Can you advise the common side effects please with 20 fractions of EBRT, many people on here state

very few, and others quite varied. I know everyone is different but the more likely perhaps? What is the best diet to follow before and during EBRT. And also, how to self regulate your bowels so you can hopefully avoid the enema every day, which can cause irritation and inflammation. Thanks

  • Hi badger1234,

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. I’m Barbara one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line. I’m glad to see that you’ve joined our prostate cancer forum.  I hope you find this helpful. 

    It is understandable that you would want to have a clearer idea of what side effects to expect with 20 fractions of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).  As you’ve mentioned experiences do vary from person to person.  Some individuals report minimal side effects while others may experience a range of symptoms/side effects.  This can depend on factors like the treatment area and personal sensitivity to radiotherapy. 

    Cancer Research UK gives more information on side effects from EBRT.  The most common side effects can include fatigue, skin reactions, bowel changes and bladder irritation. Side effects tend to develop gradually over the course of treatment and most side effects resolve gradually after treatment has finished.  Bowel and bladder changes can take a little longer to settle. 

    Here at the Macmillan Support Line, we don’t have access to any NHS records, therefore it can be difficult to fully understand your circumstances and if you already have health conditions which may be impacted by EBRT.   

    Eating well can help maintain energy levels and support digestive health during radiotherapy.  Prostate Cancer UK has helpful information about diet and physical activity which you might find useful.  It is suggested that you try to include a balanced, high fibre diet to support regular bowel movements, adequate hydration, limiting processed or spicy foods that may irritate the bowel and finally small, frequent meals may help if nausea or reduced appetite occurs.  If bowel sensitivity were to increase, a low fibre diet might temporarily be advised to reduce irritation, speaking with a dietitian would be beneficial for more tailored guidance. 

    It is understandable that you would like to avoid the enema everyday, optimising bowel function can help reduce reliance on enemas.  Some suggestions can include:

    • Trying to empty your bowels at a consistent time each day, ideally before treatment
    • Some people use stool softeners or mild laxatives to maintain regularity without the need for enemas. We would advise speaking to either your GP or health care team for further guidance on this. 
    • Fibre intake should be balanced, too much or too little can cause irregularity.
    • Staying well hydrated and incorporating gentle daily activity can help encourage regular bowel movements.

    If you experience bowel issues, let your treatment team know as they can offer assessment, support or adjustments.

    Finally, please don’t hesitate to call us on the Macmillan Support Line if you need further advice or support. 

    I hope this helps.

    Best wishes

    Barbara G

    Macmillan Cancer 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 BG/GeS