https://www.uhn.ca/PrincessMargaret/PatientsFamilies/Specialized_Program_Services/Getting_Back_On_Track/Colorectal/Pages/colorectal.aspx
No

Radiation enteritis is damage to the colon caused by radiation therapy, which is a type of treatment for cancer. People who have had radiation therapy to the pelvis or belly may have a higher risk of radiation enteritis. Some of the symptoms of radiation enteritis include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Frequent urges to have a bowel movement
  • Stomach cramping
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Watery diarrhea
  • Weight loss

 

What you can do

There a number of things you can do to manage changes in bowel function after radiotherapy:

  • Slowing the passage of stool through the bowel (diet management)
  • Emptying the bowel more effectively
  • Strengthening the muscles used for bowel control

Talk to your doctor if you notice the signs and symptoms of radiation enteritis.

 

Last reviewed: 1/4/2018
Last modified: 1/4/2019 12:10 PM
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