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Side Effects of Pelvic Radiation

Pelvic radiation is a common treatment for cancers of the prostate, colon, uterus, cervix and ovaries. The radioactive energy used to treat these conditions also poses a risk for side effects in patients.

  1. Types of Side Effects

    • Some side effects are common to all types of radiation therapy, such skin redness and irritation at the site of therapy, hair loss from the treated area, and fatigue. Side effects specific to pelvic radiation include diarrhea and frequent urination.

    Time Frame

    • Some side effects of pelvic radiation, such as skin irritation, develop within hours of treatment, while others take several days to a week to appear. Fatigue from radiation usually continues for up to one year after treatment ends, and some patients find hair loss from radiation to be permanent.

    Gender-Specific Side Effects

    • Men who receive pelvic radiation sometimes develop impotence. For women, vaginal itching, burning and dryness are possible.

    Risks

    • Pelvic radiation poses a risk for permanent infertility in both men and women. Radiation therapy also slightly increases your risk of developing cancer again later in life, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Solution

    • Adequate rest and proper nutrition are important factors in limiting the side effects of pelvic radiation, according to the American Cancer Society. If you develop diarrhea, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

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