Rectal cancer chemo/radiotherapy options

I had both Chemo and radiotherapy before op for bowel cancer.

Which side effects are you particularly worried about?

They keep a close eye on you during treatment and there are lots of pills and potions available to help as well as giving the oxy over a longer time to help lessen any side effects.

Why not click on peoples names to see how they got on.

All the best

Kath

Ps I had the op first then chemo but it was colon not rectal cancer so different.

Hi Kath

I'm worried about peripheral neuropathy and larangeal spasm.  These side effects of the oxy can happen when you get home, as well as when receiving the infusion.  I've read that some people are only given Capecitabine tablets, and this is what I was hoping for.  

I had radiotherapy and chemotherapy befor my surgery.  I had capecitabine only at that time..  this treatment was referred to as chemo radiation.

Cold makes both things worse but luckily the weather is warming up which should help.

I had both side effects amongst others but by staying off cold drinks and foods and wrapping up warm on the way home I managed.when I got the laryngeal spasm I tried to stay calm,put a hot water bottle on my chest and tried to sip a warm drink.whilst it seems frightening it does pass.I was also told to buy a hot drink to sip on the way home in the car 

Kath

I had both and whilst the side effects were unpleasant they were very manageable and I certainly wouldn't have an issue having the same treatment again. It just makes you feel very tired and susceptible to short term unpleasant spasms that shouldn't deter you. The treatment worked well for me so was worth the discomfort. 

Hi Elaine

You can have a second opinion if you would like to chat this through with another oncologist. In my opinion an oncologist is allowed to make their best clinical judgement for your best overall survival but another oncologist may also have a very good clinical reason for another approach. So it might be worthwhile have a chat , at least you would be fully informed of the clinical aspects .

Our helpline staff would be happy to chat this through with you on 0808 808 0000.

The other thought that came through my mind Chemo can be stopped at any juncture you like . You still have autonomy of your body . It can also be reduced to lessen side effects . My mum had that and made the world of difference. 
You might also want to ask about the science as I think there is some recent research that shows better overall survival in the current approach as from what I am reading on the boards this  has altered for some people .

My mum was a stage 4 patient so really had to endure the side effects to give her a fighting chance but they did not leave her to suffer . They can give a slower infusion and other medication to reduce the spasm with she did have and it was very unpleasant but she never had it again and she had chemo for over two years .

It sounds to me as though you would welcome a further chat and the opportunity to voice your concerns . If that’s not possible then you have the option of a second opinion to give more space to engage in the proposed treatment plan . 
In terms of managing the spasm my mum took a flask of tepid water ( not boiling ) and that eased her journey home . It was actually never a problem after the first incident but gave her confidence. It is a sensation , the actual airways are wide open despite the feeling .

Our helpline staff are always there to chat these issues through .

Take care ,

Court 

Thank you Court for your reply, and thanks also to the other people who replied.  I've taken your advice and asked for a second opinion, which will be another Oncologist at the same cancer centre.  But now I'm feeling so guilty for making a fuss and 'putting my head above the parapet', which is something I've never done before. I think I'll be seen as a difficult patient, and no-one wants that. So now I'm just waiting, but feeling very bad for not keeping quiet and just getting on with it, like a good patient should.  

Honestly it happens all the time and people understand that you need to be fully involved in  what your consenting to and if you explain that I am sure they will understand your position . We would ask questions about purchasing a car and this is more important than that . 
Oncology waiting rooms were  pre covid full to the brim so you will not hit their radar too much . You will feel better in yourself . 
Hope it goes well for you .

Court 

I have been diagnosed with rectal cancer for the second time since 2019, this time it has spread to a vaginal fistula.  I had surgery last time and have stoma, I didnt chemo or radiotherapy prior to surgery but I did have 3 months Capecitabine after the surgery

January 2022  and its back.  Tuesday I have a planning scan for radiotherapy and I will also be taking a low dose of Capecitabine.  I notice that others have been offered other chemo as well as capecitabine? is that usual, is this something I should be asking for?

Has anyone had a re-occurance and how successful was the treatment

thank you