side effects (take 2)

I'm sorry to keep talking about my problems, but I would love to have some idea when these side effects (specifically burning urination and terrible diarhea) are going to end!

My family doctor, who I've already mentioned had cancer last year is my "expert" on what to expect, as he also had radiation in a similar area. He told me today that it takes at least 2 weeks after last treatment, but also that it could get worse before getting better. I was relieved to hear that because this week (finished radiation on Monday) has been the worst so far!

I am concerned about taking immodium and sedarul for so long, and there doesn't seem to be any end in sight. I am just worn out from this pattern - each day I start off feeling great, and then at about 12:00 the stomach pains begin, and I feel awful till the evening. I can't nap or fall asleep at night because of the terrible pain in my bottom! I got a new cream 2 days ago, and it makes it a bit better, but I still have trouble sleeping and walking around because of the pain.

Any ideas? How long does this usually last after treatment? Also, other than rice, what can I eat that might help?

I can't really complain to anyone else because (1) they don't want to hear, and (2) they keep telling me how great I look (as if that means I'm fine so why am I complaining).


Esther

I finished my radiation around the 20th of December and by Christmas I was okay. I still have urgency when I overfill my bladder, but the burning and the diarrhea were mostly gone by Christmas. I still had some diarrhea then but not as bad as what I had during my treatments.

Although everyone is different, it just takes time.

Please take care and God Bless You and Keep you.

Dear Esther,

I wish I knew something about radiation and its related side effects, but I don't.

I just wanted to post a note saying how sorry I was that you're dealing with all of this. I hope all those side effects go away soon. :-)

I know about the pain from diarreah. My only advice to give you is start with wiping with baby wipes from the first. Don't even use the toilet paper. It works way better, and it keeps the pain way a little longer. Believe me, I know about the pain while walking also. My nurse also told me to try leaving a wippy in there between times, and that seems to work also, that moisture keeps it lubricated when walking. You may want to try that too. The good news is, it does go away about two to three weeks after your last radiation.

I'm sorry you have to go through this, believe me, I know how bad it can be. I still get a touch of the diarreah with my chemo also.

My radiologist oncologist told me not to worry about taking alot of immodium he said you can take a whole lot more then what the bottle reads. I seemed to remember taking those like water. It worked somewhat, so I used whatever kept helping.

Good luck...

's and ers to you.