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Anal cancer

Ragtime
  • 2 replies
  • 44 subscribers
  • 266 views

I have serious anal cancer and am about to start on intensive programme of radiotherapy plus chemotherapy. I have been advised to try not to sit on the area which is nigh on impossible! Is there a special cushion or rubber ring I could use to protect the area when I sit down to eat, read etc. Also is there an ointment to use on the area to prevent dry and painful skin as treatment progresses? Thanks so much.

  • Dear Ragtime,

    Thank you for contacting Macmillan. My name is Denise, and I am one of the Macmillan Cancer Information Nurses on the helpline.

    I am sorry to read you have been diagnosed with anal cancer needing chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This must be a very difficult time for you.

    Macmillan Support Line can only give general information and support. We are independent from the NHS and don’t have access to medical records, so we can’t give personalised information or specific advice.

    If we may suggest ask your colorectal cancer nurse specialist (CNS) to advise you on the best pressure relieving cushion for you as there are several ones available on the market. Your CNS may be able to supply you with one free of charge. Your GP can also ask the district nurses (DN’s) to supply you with one used by the NHS.

    There are also rubber rings available to purchase from pharmacies like Boots, but it would be best to discuss this with your team if it is safe for you to use.

    As for skincare products, radiologists will usually suggest good moisturisers free of chemicals. If you are already using one, and your skin is used to the moisturiser it is recommended to carry on with the same moisturiser. If you wish you can listen to the actual podcast produced by cancer radiologists about skin care after radiotherapy. To access the podcasts please click here. The specific podcast you need to search for is E7: Radiotherapy Skin Care.

    I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please get in touch by email, webchat or phone. The Macmillan Support Line offers practical, clinical, financial and emotional support. You can call us free from landlines and from most mobile phone networks* on 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week, 8am – 8pm. You can also visit our Online Community, where you can talk to others who have been affected by cancer. 

    Best wishes,

    Denise
    Macmillan Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
    Macmillan Support Line

    Ref: DK/AM

  • in reply to Denise K - Macmillan

    Hi Denise

    Thank you so very much for your most helpful  reply. You are a real star and |I will follow up all of your points

    Have a lovely Christmas and all the very best for 2026

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