Side effects

Radiotherapy acts by using radiation that targets and kills tumor cells.

Although its beams are very accurate, it is common to damage nearby normal cells as well, especially if the treatment seeks to target the internal tissues of the colon.

For this reason, the treatment can have a few side effects:

• Gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, cramps, constipation, as well as pressure and discomfort in the rectum) 
  pressão e desconforto na zona do recto)
• Loss of appetite
• Urinary changes
• Localized changes in the skin
• Fatigue
• Changes in the number of blood cells

In women, side effects can also include:

• Hormonal changes
• Discharge and vaginal problems
• Changes in fertility

These are mostly temporary effects associated with the period of treatment since normal cells have a good recovery capacity, much better than tumor cells.

However, if you are planning to have children, you should talk to your doctor before radiotherapy, because sometimes there might occur permanent fertility problems.

Discuss with your doctor what to expect from your radiotherapy treatment, and what to do to minimize its side effects.

In the  side effects  section, you can also find information brochures on the subject.