Long term side effects of Radiotherapy

As I have mentioned in the past I have.had problem's with side effects of Radiotherapy 

Please feel free to read my profile.

Gleason 9

Incurable, aggressive and high risk.

Prognosis 5/10 years (gunna cain that)

For a long time I have been having unanounced bowel movements.

I was told by my Oncologist and Urologist that it was caused by my Radiotherapy.

I had a colonoscopy that took two polyps away and eight biopsies all were fine.

An MRI scan for suspected spinal compression revealed L5-S1 SUSPECTED RADIATION 

I have worn pull up pants for the last four years,. however they were not enough.

My Radiotherapy was on my prostate and to my pelvis/nodes and as my oncologist said 

"I'll give it all I've.got"

I usually don't mention this incase people have.to make a choice of Prostextomy or Radiotherapy,

However I am now beginning to get my life.back after a colorectal surgeon listened to my journey and told me 'we need to get your life back"

I was seen.by bowel and bladder but only part of the advice worked.

 The consultant arranged for me to see a Scientific Clinician at St Mary's Manchester.

An ultrasound was performed in what I can only describe as the.most professional manner and in a dignified manner.

I have now been diagnosed with Chronic Radiation Proctitis, its early days and I have a ritual I have to do each day which involves irrigation flush out and Nevana mini where I have to insert a plug which can last for anything up to twenty four hours.

I am now on a better path but if things don't stay stable there are other options involving the spine or stoma.

I was told years ago after having a familial heart disease operation and an aneurysm to my femoral  artery to never neglect my pain.

It is only because I persisted that I was given the chance to see a colorectal surgeon who seemed to click his fingers and suddenly I had different departments ringing me to arrange appointments including anal physio.

I will come back soon and let you know how its going as its early days yet.

I was so worried.as my son was getting married and I everything was sent to me by a prescription via DHL next day and I got to learn how use eveything before the wedding.

Don't be afraid to mention poo/stool etc someone is there to help.

I am still here and learning to laugh again, I can now plan things I couldn’t prior to my treatment.

What happened to me doesn’t happen to everyone who has radiotherapy but it did

Hope this all makes sense..

I  can now go to places with Mrs Spud without reaching for my radar key or to put it bluntly shiting my self in public.

Thanks for listening

Spud

"You don't know how Strong you are, until being Strong is your only choice"

Bob Marley ...

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