What should you know about radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer uk?

External-beam radiotherapy directs beams towards the prostate from a treatment machine. Planning scans help the team shape the field and position you consistently. Brachytherapy places radioactive sources in or close to the prostate for a planned period or as a permanent implant, depending on the technique.

Radiotherapy can be used with hormone treatment in some plans. The intended aim may be to treat cancer in the prostate or to control cancer that has reached another area. Your specialist considers urinary symptoms, bowel health, sexual function, previous operations and other medical conditions when discussing options.

Follow instructions about bladder filling, bowel emptying, medicines and appointment timing. Tell the team about difficulty passing urine, previous prostate procedures, blood-thinning medicines and any implanted device. Keep a record of urinary, bowel and sexual changes so the team can respond early.

Possible effects include more frequent urination, urgency, bowel irritation, tiredness or changes in sexual function. These may vary by technique and can occur during treatment or later. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice; ask how to manage symptoms safely.

Contact your treatment team if urinary burning, urgency, bowel changes or pain are worsening, or if side effects interfere with drinking, sleeping or daily activities. Seek urgent help if you cannot pass urine, have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, sudden weakness or difficulty breathing.

Ask why a particular radiotherapy technique is being offered, whether hormone treatment is part of the plan, how preparation works, and which side effects may be temporary or longer lasting. Ask who will manage urinary or bowel problems and how treatment compares with prostate removal surgery.