
What Causes Change In Bowel Movements Post Radiation For Prostate Cancer?

Question: since I had external radiation beam for prostate cancer in XXXXXXX 2012 it has changed my bowel habits. When I get up in the morning after a short time I have a somewhat ergancy to have a bowel movement. I go normal stools. Then about 1/2 hour to a hour I have sudden urge to go again. this time stools are thiner and my I will need to go a third time. .Usually after the third time I will have some blood on stool and when I wipe some blood mixter with fecal matter this may go away or last most of the day where i have small amounts of bleeding.. At times I will have urge to go but it will take some effort and just a little stool no blood. then maybe some hours later I will feel like to need to pass gas and blood will come out and maybe what looks like a small clot or jelly looking blood. . What can I do to correct this ..It may go away for a few day then return. .I have ITP so when my Platelets are low it is more predominate. It also seems when I engage in physcial activity it may bleed.at times.Had anoscpe which showed internal Hemorriods and DR said I probably have Radiation Proctisis. I also have diverticulitocis the length of my colon..
Brief Answer:
Argon plasma coagulation therapy
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Since you had a history of extermal radiation beam for prostate cancer in XXXXXXX 2012 your changed bowel habits and blood in stool could be due radiation proctitis.
I would advise you to undergo argon plasma coagulation therapy.
It is the endoscopic technique of choice to control mucosal bleeding because of chronic radiation proctitis.
APC has a limited depth of penetration which results in a lower risk of perforation.
Multiple treatments are usually required but bleeding is successfully controlled in 85-90% of patients.
Discuss the above method with your treating physician.
Regards
DR DE
Argon plasma coagulation therapy
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Since you had a history of extermal radiation beam for prostate cancer in XXXXXXX 2012 your changed bowel habits and blood in stool could be due radiation proctitis.
I would advise you to undergo argon plasma coagulation therapy.
It is the endoscopic technique of choice to control mucosal bleeding because of chronic radiation proctitis.
APC has a limited depth of penetration which results in a lower risk of perforation.
Multiple treatments are usually required but bleeding is successfully controlled in 85-90% of patients.
Discuss the above method with your treating physician.
Regards
DR DE
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Neel Kudchadkar


Until I can arrange the treatment you sujest what is the best way to deal with the bleeding?
Brief Answer:
Tranexamic acid
Detailed Answer:
Hi
You can consult your doctor regarding applying formalin for stopping bleeding which may be instilled in your rectum using a proctoscope.
The formalin needs to remain in contact with the rectal mucosa for 30 seconds followed with copious saline irrigation.
For stopping bleeding i would also advise you to take Tranexamic acid 500 mg tablets three times daily after food for 5 days.
If you have no more clarifications then please rate the answer and close the thread.
Regards
DR DE
Tranexamic acid
Detailed Answer:
Hi
You can consult your doctor regarding applying formalin for stopping bleeding which may be instilled in your rectum using a proctoscope.
The formalin needs to remain in contact with the rectal mucosa for 30 seconds followed with copious saline irrigation.
For stopping bleeding i would also advise you to take Tranexamic acid 500 mg tablets three times daily after food for 5 days.
If you have no more clarifications then please rate the answer and close the thread.
Regards
DR DE
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Shanthi.E

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
