Home  >  Erectile Dysfunction  >  Recovery after radiation for prostate cancer

Recovery after radiation for prostate cancer

Radiation therapy for prostate cancer: consequences and effectiveness

The disease does not spare anyone, cancer is one of the most severe. If you do not see a doctor in time, then big problems can arise. Then only medicines are no longer enough. We will have to resort to cardinal actions, which include radiation therapy. With Prostate cancer, its consequences are unpredictable. We will talk about this now, but first-

What is radiotherapy

This is an effective and expedient treatment for oncological pathologies, which include prostate cancer. It is based on ionizing radiation, acts purposefully, destroys only diseased cells, healthy ones are not affected.

• Ion radiation is directed to where the molecules containing water and tumor cells are located.
• After hitting the beam, hydrogen peroxide and free radicals appear in them.
• The resulting products block the work of diseased cells, their growth and reproduction.

The treatment of prostate cancer with radiation therapy is also based on the fact that the activity of radicals and hydrogen peroxide depends on metabolism. The higher it is, the more actively the tumor feeds, which, in turn, leads to an increase in the harmful effects of radiation on it.

This method of treatment is used at all stages of the development of the disease, regardless of the area of organ damage and the spread of metastases. In addition, radiation therapy is effectively used after removal of prostate cancer as a preventive and therapeutic agent.

The radiation directed at cancer cells is divided into two types:

• wave - based on gamma radiation and x-rays;
• The corpuscular method is a proton therapy, which includes: electron radiation, alpha and beta particles, neutron and proton radiation.

There are three ways that radiation therapy can affect a malignant tumor:

• remote;
• contact;
• interstitial.

Varieties of procedure

Currently, there are several varieties of radiation therapy for prostate cancer, the consequences and effectiveness of treatment depend on the form of the disease:

Remote exposure

The peculiarities of this type of irradiation are that during the session there is a detrimental effect not only on diseased cells, but also on healthy ones. For the procedure, a special apparatus is used, it helps to regulate the wavelength, which contributes to the maximum possible reduction in the effect of rays on a healthy area.

This equipment is of high precision and should only be operated by a trained professional. If the device is used incorrectly, the patient may not improve his condition, but, on the contrary, worsen it.

First, an examination is carried out, after which a volumetric location of the tumor is built, and then the doctor tries to direct radio waves at it.

External beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer is given every day or according to a schedule drawn up by the attending physician for seven to eight weeks.

Remote therapy, in turn, is divided into two types: motionless and mobile.

The first view is as follows:

• The patient is placed in one specific position.
• They direct a radiation source at it (it is also stationary).

Second view, mobile:

• Move the radiation source.
• They direct it to the prostate tumor, the device moves around the patient and acts on cancer cells from all sides.

Sometimes when using this method, a short break in treatment is required.

Interstitial method (brachytherapy)

An effective cancer treatment is brachytherapy. This method is most successful if the tumor is located within the prostate gland. Its essence is as follows: with the help of a special needle, a radioactive substance is injected into the tumor. Iodine -125 is used as a substance. The procedure is carried out under ultrasound control.

Depending on how the capsules containing the radioactive substance are located, brachytherapy is divided into:

• intracavitary;
• interstitial;
• intravascular.

After the procedure, the patient stays in the hospital for a day. Relief comes in a few days. The radioactive substance decays in the body within two months. During this time, cancer cells die.

The main plus of brachytherapy is that radiation affects only damaged cells, healthy ones remain intact. That is why after this procedure fewer complications develop than after remote irradiation.

Proton method and adjuvant therapy

This is one of the non-invasive types of radiation therapy that helps get rid of prostate cancer. This method is based on the most precise action of radiation on the pathogenic point formed in the gland. Due to the fact that the dose is distributed accurately, all forms of cancer are completely cured. There are no side complications.

The next option is adjuvant Radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Used as:

• prevention;
• helper;
• a tool that complements surgery.

The goal of this therapy is to destroy the secondary tumor.

This method has an effect on the spread of cancer cells and their growth. The energy of powerful radiation is capable of killing diseased cells that remain after the operation. In this way, the effectiveness of treatment is increased. Depending on the desired purpose, internal or external radiation is used. It is sent to the site of tumor formation, reducing the risk of recurrence of oncology in this area.

Palliative Radiation Therapy

This radiation therapy is most often used for prostate cancer. The consequences of the disease in this case reach the fourth stage. The palliative view is aimed at alleviating the patient's condition. External radiation therapy helps to reduce swelling and pain and involves the following activities:

• To relieve the symptoms of the disease, surgical intervention is performed, transurethral resection of the prostate. Thanks to palliative care, it is possible to reduce the development of the disease.
• This type of radiation therapy is prescribed in combination with hormonal drugs in the last stage of prostate cancer. This event reduces pain, eliminates the side effects of cancer cells.
• When detecting locally advanced prostate cancer, an ultrasound ablation technique is used, which also belongs to palliative therapy. It helps to eliminate the side effects of the disease.

Consequences of radiotherapy

Although the introduction of new techniques can reduce negative feelings after the procedure, it is still radiation therapy. With prostate cancer, the consequences after it still exist:

• There are problems with the rectum. Diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome may occur. Over time, these troubles go away.
• There are questions related to the functioning of the bladder and urination. The patient suffers from frequent urination, burning during it and the presence of blood in the urine. These troubles pass after a while.
• Development of impotence and erectile dysfunction. The frequency of occurrence of these problems is the same as after surgery. But there is a difference: after the operation, impotence develops immediately, and after irradiation gradually, over the course of a year.
• After radiation therapy has been used for prostate cancer (reviews from patients who have undergone this procedure confirm this), at first, constant fatigue and fatigue are felt. This state persists for a couple of months.
• The outflow of lymph is disturbed. This is the cause of swelling of the lower extremities.
• Constriction of the urethra. Sometimes the urethra is damaged, the outflow of urine is disturbed.

How to behave during treatment

Many people are concerned about the question: what to expect after radiation therapy for prostate cancer? Its effectiveness depends on compliance with the following rules:

• During the procedure, nutrition should be not only high-calorie, but also complete. The diet should include all vitamins and minerals. Be sure to observe the drinking regime (up to three liters of fluid per day).
• Stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
• Clothes should be loose, light, made from natural fabrics. It is desirable to keep the radiation zones open. When going outside, they must be protected from the sun.
• Do not use soap or other cosmetics. When taking a shower, be aware of the marks on the body.
• If you experience redness, itching, heavy sweating, be sure to consult your doctor.
• Constant walks in the fresh air, appropriate physical activity, sound and good sleep is another step towards getting rid of the disease.

Life after radiotherapy

Recovery begins immediately after the end of the irradiation sessions. It includes the following points:

• rest during the day;
• full sleep;
• sparing mode;
• emotional mood;
• proper and nutritious nutrition;
• giving up all bad habits.

During this period, the help of not only a doctor, but also relatives is very important.

Since the treatment is not over yet, you will have to go for procedures and studies, the emotional state often changes in this regard. The main thing during this period is not to withdraw into oneself, to communicate with friends and relatives. Try to keep the usual rhythm of life, do not give up household chores. If you are a little tired, lie down, rest.

If you work, ask management to put you on light duty for at least a little while. It is best, of course, to take a vacation for the rehabilitation period.

If all the doctor's recommendations are followed, the rehabilitation period will pass calmly, quickly and easily.

Procedure efficiency

The results are different at different stages:

• Radiation at the first stage can replace surgery, healthy organs and tissues remain intact.
• After a prostatectomy, radiation therapy is used for prostate cancer. The consequences after the operation in this case become minimal, as pathogenic cells are destroyed.
• In the later stages of the disease, radiation reduces pain.

Your health is in your hands. Try to visit your doctor regularly. He will monitor the course of the disease and prescribe treatment at the slightest deterioration.

The need and consequences of radiation therapy for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is currently one of the most common malignant neoplasms in men. The disease develops asymptomatically at first, then the symptoms resemble chronic prostatitis, which is already present in most older men.

Prostate cancer is treated with surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal and radiation therapy. The latter method is one of the most effective and is often prescribed both as a monotherapy for stage 2 cancer, and in complex treatment for more advanced forms of the disease.

Effectiveness of radiotherapy for prostate cancer

Radiation therapy is currently one of the most effective treatments for prostate cancer. The procedure can be carried out as the main therapy, as well as used as an adjunct to other methods of treating a malignant tumor. For example, if the tumor needs to be removed, then radiation therapy may be prescribed after a prostatectomy to completely get rid of the remaining tumor cells.

Despite the great effectiveness, the technique can cause serious consequences. Therefore, the course of treatment is selected by the doctor on an individual basis. The specialist assesses the general health of the man, the presence of concomitant diseases, collects an anamnesis.

As the main method of treatment, exposure to rays in prostate cancer is effective only at stages 1 and 2. Stage 3 and 4 prostate cancer requires a prostatectomy followed by radiation and chemotherapy.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW! 80% of prostate diseases are asymptomatic, and this rapidly leads to dire consequences. If you need powerful protection against prostatitis, experts recommend. Read more >>

It is also worth noting that radiation therapy should be carried out with caution if metastases have spread to bone tissue, as the procedure can cause serious harm to the body.

How radiotherapy is performed for prostate cancer

Currently, there are 2 types of radiation exposure carried out for prostate cancer:

• contact or brachytherapy;
• remote;

Contact radiation therapy involves placing a radiation source inside the human body, in the immediate vicinity of the tumor, or inside it. With this technique, the radiation acts locally, the surrounding tissues do not suffer. Brachytherapy is used for small tumors that have not yet metastasized.

Implantation of the radiation source is performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia. It is believed that this method is the most sparing, complications from treatment are quite rare.

External radiation therapy is a method in which irradiation is carried out from the outside through the skin. The exact location of the tumor is calculated using a computer. A variation of the procedure is modern 3D-conformal radiation therapy, in which the irradiation area ideally matches the area of the neoplasm.

In this procedure, the patient is fixed to ensure complete immobility. Then a study is carried out to determine the contour of the tumor. Then the device is installed and treated. During the procedure, the patient lies on the couch in a comfortable position, but he is completely motionless.

The number of radiation sessions for prostate cancer is determined by the attending physician. Depending on the method of therapy and the stage of the disease, the number of procedures may be different.

For example, 3D conformal radiation therapy requires a long course of treatment, 1.5-2 months.With this procedure, you need to visit 4-5 days a week. And stereotactic radiation therapy requires only 5-6 sessions. Treatment can be carried out both in the hospital and outpatient. Again, it all depends on the stage of the disease and the patient well-being.

Consequences of radiation therapy with prostate cancer

Exposure with prostate 1-2 degree cancer usually does not cause serious complications, since it does not require large doses of radiation, and can be carried out as monotherapy. At the launched cancer stage will require chemotherapy and prostatectomy, respectively, complications may manifest much more.

The most common complication after prostate cancer is urination disorders. Radioactive irradiation can cause irritation and swelling of the surrounding tumor of healthy tissues. As a consequence, the prostate elapsed creates pressure on the urethra, which leads to a difficult dampness of urine, the jet becomes weak. As a result, frequent urges arise to urination.

If the radiation therapy causes irritation of the bladder, then the patient is worried about the burning in urination. It is called such a state of radiation cystitis. To avoid such a complication or reduce the manifestation of cystitis, during the treatment period you need to drink a lot of water. It is also recommended to be examined for infections in the bladder.

If the irradiation hits the intestines, the diarrhea and abdominal pain arises. To avoid such a complication, before the procedure you need to fill the bladder. He will slightly shift the intestines from the prostate so that he does not get into the exposure zone. It will also be useful to comply with the principles of proper nutrition, eliminate gas-forming products from the diet.

Remote radiation therapy often provokes a feeling of weakness. The symptom can manifest itself in different degrees of each patient. In most cases, the feeling of overwork is associated with nervous overvoltage, fatigue from constant walking in hospitals, but also irradiation, when entering healthy tissues, can provoke this symptom.

Another often complication of radiation therapy is impotence. With monotherapy, erectile dysfunction is quite rare, when exposed to large doses of irradiation. Most often, impotence is associated with prostatectomy, which was carried out before exposure to the rays.

Use for prevention! An innovative biologically active drug that naturally returns the health of the prostate gland. Specialists recommend!. More >>

If the impotence arose after radiation therapy, there is a chance to restore men's strength with the help of herbs and medicines. But before starting treatment, it is necessary to consult a doctor, because drugs for potency can provoke a relapse of the disease.

Cancer recurrence after radiation therapy

If after radiation therapy, the PSA study showed the absence of cancer cells, they say about remission. The recurrence of prostate cancer is not excluded. The fact is that no method of therapy can ensure that cancer cells will remain in the body at all.

At the time of treatment, the tumor could already begin to metastasize, but metastasis can be so little that, during the study, they were not discovered. In this case, after a few months, the recurrence of cancer will arise. Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to predict the relapse, so the first 2 years the patient must constantly visit the doctor and take tests for prevention.

To prevent the recurrence of prostate cancer, the patient is recommended to conduct a healthy lifestyle. Alcohol, smoking and rich fats increase the risk of developing oncology. The risk group includes men with obesity. Therefore, it is recommended to lose weight and eat right and balanced.

Conclusion

Prostate cancer is a very common deadly disease, which is more susceptible to older patients, after 50-60 years, especially with chronic prostatitis and prostate hyperplasia in history.

Therefore, men are recommended to take an annual examination at Andrologist. If you detect cancer on time, it will be possible to get rid of it with the help of radiation therapy and avoid serious side effects. According to statistics, more than 93% of patients with prostate cancer 2 stages are successfully cured and live 5 years and longer.

Potency restoration after radiation therapy of the prostate gland

Radiation therapy with prostate cancer: consequences and efficiency

The disease does not spare anyone, cancer is one of the most difficult. If you do not consult a doctor on time, you may have big problems. Then only medicines can no longer do. We'll have to resort to fundamental actions to which the radiation therapy belongs. When the prostate cancer is implicitly implicitable.We will talk about this now, but first-

What is radiotherapy

This is an effective and expedient treatment for oncological pathologies, which include prostate cancer. It is based on ionizing radiation, acts purposefully, destroys only diseased cells, healthy ones are not affected.

Ion radiation is directed to where the molecules containing water and tumor cells are located. After the beam hits them, hydrogen peroxide and free radicals appear. The resulting products block the work of diseased cells, their growth and reproduction.

The treatment of prostate cancer with radiation therapy is also based on the fact that the activity of radicals and hydrogen peroxide depends on metabolism. The higher it is, the more actively the tumor feeds, which, in turn, leads to an increase in the harmful effects of radiation on it.

This method of treatment is used at all stages of the development of the disease, regardless of the area of organ damage and the spread of metastases. In addition, radiation therapy is effectively used after removal of prostate cancer as a preventive and therapeutic agent.

The radiation directed at cancer cells is divided into two types:

Wave - based on gamma radiation and x-rays; the corpuscular method is proton therapy, which includes: electron radiation, alpha and beta particles, neutron and proton radiation.

There are three ways that radiation therapy can affect a malignant tumor:

Varieties of procedure

Currently, there are several varieties of radiation therapy for prostate cancer, the consequences and effectiveness of treatment depend on the form of the disease:

Conformal. It is used in the event that there is a need for complete and uniform irradiation of a pathogenic tumor. A 3D image of education is created. In this case, all tissues and organs located nearby are taken into account. Radiation ions affect only cancer cells, intact organs and tissues remain intact. With modulated intensity. The beam that is directed to the tumor is divided into several smaller ones. The strength of each of the beam streams is programmable. In this regard, healthy areas of the prostate receive a small dose of radiation, while disease-causing cells are the main effect. Proton. Experts believe that this method is the most effective for prostate cancer. Protons only affect diseased cells, but this procedure is not prescribed for all forms of cancer. Neutron. Used when other methods did not help.

Remote exposure

The peculiarities of this type of irradiation are that during the session there is a detrimental effect not only on diseased cells, but also on healthy ones. For the procedure, a special apparatus is used, it helps to regulate the wavelength, which contributes to the maximum possible reduction in the effect of rays on a healthy area.

This equipment is of high precision and should only be operated by a trained professional. If the device is used incorrectly, the patient may not improve his condition, but, on the contrary, worsen it.

First, an examination is carried out, after which a volumetric location of the tumor is built, and then the doctor tries to direct radio waves at it.

External beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer is given every day or according to a schedule drawn up by the attending physician for seven to eight weeks.

Remote therapy, in turn, is divided into two types: motionless and mobile.

The first view is as follows:

The patient is placed in one specific position. A radiation source is directed at it (it is also stationary).

Second view, mobile:

Move the radiation source. They direct it to the prostate tumor, the device moves around the patient and acts on cancer cells from all sides.

Sometimes when using this method, a short break in treatment is required.

Interstitial method (brachytherapy)

An effective treatment for cancer is brachytherapy. This method is most successful if the tumor is located within the prostate gland. Its essence is as follows: with the help of a special needle, a radioactive substance is injected into the tumor. Iodine -125 is used as a substance. The procedure is carried out under ultrasound control.

Depending on how the capsules containing the radioactive substance are located, brachytherapy is divided into:

After the procedure, the patient stays in the hospital for a day. Relief comes in a few days. The radioactive substance decays in the body within two months. During this time, cancer cells die.

The main plus of brachytherapy is that radiation affects only damaged cells, healthy ones remain intact.That is why after this procedure fewer complications develop than after remote irradiation.

Proton method and adjuvant therapy

This is one of the non-invasive types of radiation therapy that helps get rid of prostate cancer. This method is based on the most precise action of radiation on the pathogenic point formed in the gland. Due to the fact that the dose is distributed accurately, all forms of cancer are completely cured. There are no side complications.

The next option is adjuvant Radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Used as:

Prevention; auxiliary means; a tool that complements surgery.

The goal of this therapy is to destroy the secondary tumor.

This method has an effect on the spread of cancer cells and their growth. The energy of powerful radiation is capable of killing diseased cells that remain after the operation. In this way, the effectiveness of treatment is increased. Depending on the desired purpose, internal or external radiation is used. It is sent to the site of tumor formation, reducing the risk of recurrence of oncology in this area.

Palliative Radiation Therapy

This radiation therapy is most often used for prostate cancer. The consequences of the disease in this case reach the fourth stage. The palliative view is aimed at alleviating the patient's condition. External radiation therapy helps to reduce swelling and pain and involves the following activities:

To relieve the symptoms of the disease, surgical intervention is performed, transurethral resection of the prostate. Thanks to palliative treatment, it is possible to reduce the development of the disease. This type of radiation therapy is prescribed in combination with hormonal drugs at the last stage of prostate cancer. This event reduces pain, eliminates the side effects of cancer cells. When locally advanced prostate cancer is detected, the ultrasound ablation technique is used, which also refers to palliative therapy. It helps to eliminate the side effects of the disease.

Consequences of radiotherapy

Although the introduction of new techniques can reduce negative feelings after the procedure, it is still radiation therapy. With prostate cancer, the consequences after it still exist:

There are problems with the rectum. Diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome may occur. Over time, these troubles go away. There are questions related to the work of the bladder and urination. The patient suffers from frequent urination, burning during it and the presence of blood in the urine. These troubles pass after a while. The development of impotence and erectile dysfunction. The frequency of occurrence of these problems is the same as after surgery. But there is a difference: after the operation, impotence develops immediately, and after irradiation - gradually, over the course of a year. After radiation therapy has been used for prostate cancer (reviews of patients who have gone through this procedure confirm this), at first, constant fatigue and fatigue are felt. This state persists for a couple of months. The outflow of lymph is disturbed. This is the cause of swelling of the lower extremities. Narrowing of the urethra. Sometimes the urethra is damaged, the outflow of urine is disturbed.

How to behave during treatment

Many people are concerned about the question: what to expect after radiation therapy for prostate cancer? Its effectiveness depends on compliance with the following rules:

During the procedure, nutrition should be not only high-calorie, but also complete. The diet should include all vitamins and minerals. Be sure to observe the drinking regime (up to three liters of fluid per day). Quit smoking and drinking alcohol. Clothing should be loose, light, made from natural fabrics. It is desirable to keep the radiation zones open. When going outside, they must be protected from the sun. Do not use soap and other cosmetics. When taking a shower, be aware of the marks on the body. If redness, itching, heavy sweating, be sure to consult your doctor. Constant walks in the fresh air, appropriate physical activity, sound and good sleep is another step towards getting rid of the disease.

Life after radiotherapy

Recovery begins immediately after the end of the irradiation sessions. It includes the following points:

Rest during the day; full sleep; gentle mode; emotional mood; proper and nutritious nutrition; giving up all bad habits.

During this period, the help of not only a doctor, but also relatives is very important.

Since the treatment is not over yet, you will have to go for procedures and studies, the emotional state often changes in this regard. The main thing during this period is not to withdraw into oneself, to communicate with friends and relatives.Try to keep the usual rhythm of life, do not give up household chores. If you are a little tired, lie down, rest.

If you work, ask management to put you on light duty for at least a little while. It is best, of course, to take a vacation for the rehabilitation period.

If all the doctor's recommendations are followed, the rehabilitation period will pass calmly, quickly and easily.

Procedure efficiency

The results are different at different stages:

Irradiation at the first stage can replace surgery, healthy organs and tissues remain intact. After a prostatectomy, radiation therapy is used for prostate cancer. The consequences after the operation in this case become minimal, since pathogenic cells are destroyed. In the later stages of the disease, radiation reduces pain.

Your health is in your hands. Try to visit your doctor regularly. He will monitor the course of the disease and prescribe treatment at the slightest deterioration.

Effectiveness of radiotherapy for prostate cancer

Radiation therapy for prostate cancer in our time is the leading method in the fight against the oncological process. It is used to treat both limited and widespread forms of the disease.

Previously, there was only one way to get rid of a prostate tumor - radical removal of the prostate (prostatectomy), but now radiation for prostate cancer occupies a leading place.

Patient survival (ten years) after radiotherapy ranges from 75-85%. In terms of the risk of complications, radical prostatectomy gives way to radiation therapy. Such statistics indicate the effectiveness and safety of radiation.

Mechanism of action

A special apparatus emits radio waves of various lengths and frequencies. The resulting beam purposefully affects the pathological focus. The body must be maintained in a certain position so that the rays accurately hit the tumor, and not healthy nearby tissues.

Sometimes, instead of X-rays, protons are used, which have a high destructive effect on cancer cells. There is also a technique for introducing a radioactive implant directly into the prostate gland in the form of seeds.

Types of radiotherapy

Radiotherapy for prostate cancer should be as effective as possible. Therefore, several types of irradiation have been developed:

Remote beam therapy; brachytherapy: temporary and permanent; contact.

Remote irradiation is the most common method of treating oncological diseases. Preliminarily, with the help of computer or magnetic nuclear tomography, the localization of a malignant neoplasm is determined. After the study, the tumor is irradiated, trying not to affect neighboring tissues. The duration of therapy is seven to eight weeks. It is carried out on an outpatient basis, which also represents a certain advantage for patients.

Radiotherapy of the prostate, in which a radioactive component is placed directly into the neoplasm under ultrasound control, is called brachytherapy. This type of irradiation allows you to minimize the dose of radiation and reduce the undesirable effect on healthy tissues.

Several options for brachytherapy are used for oncology treatment:

Intracavitary; intravascular; interstitial.

Unlike teleradiation, brachytherapy has a low risk of complications and side effects. The postoperative period passes without serious consequences and is well tolerated by patients even in old age.

Contact therapy is the least used nowadays. The method is based on irradiation of the tumor during surgery.

This is a combined method of treating cancer of a certain stage and severity.

Side effects

Irradiation of the prostate, unfortunately, cannot go unnoticed. After the course of treatment, dysuric disorders (urination disorders) may appear, which disappear within a certain time. Sometimes there is bleeding from the rectum, perianal region. In 25-30% of patients, weakness of potency develops, up to the development of impotence.

Rehabilitation

Radiotherapy for prostate cancer requires a long period of time to completely suppress cancer cells, so patients are exhausted and weakened after the course of treatment. For a speedy recovery, certain conditions must be met:

Exclude heavy physical activity; control urination and defecation; limit the use of alcohol, narcotic and hallucinogenic substances; follow a diet (exclude fatty, spicy, sour foods); periodically attend consultations of oncologists.

If prostate cancer is detected early, then treatment with radiation therapy will not only eliminate the disease, but also preserve the integrity of the prostate, as well as return the patient to normal physical and social activity.

Share it with your friends and they will definitely share something interesting and useful with you! It's very easy and fast, just click the button of the service you use most often: