Q. What are the side effects of colon cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation?

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Colon cancer treatment can involve various approaches, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Each of these treatments may be associated with specific side effects. It's important to understand that the severity and type of side effects can vary from person to person. Your healthcare provider will discuss the potential side effects and ways to manage them as part of your treatment plan. Here are some common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy:

Side Effects of Chemotherapy:
1. Nausea and Vomiting: Some chemotherapy drugs can cause nausea and vomiting. Medications known as antiemetics are often prescribed to help manage these side effects.

2. Fatigue: Chemotherapy can lead to significant fatigue, and patients may feel extremely tired during and after treatment.

3. Hair Loss: Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy. It can affect the hair on the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.

4. Anemia: Some chemotherapy drugs may reduce the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia. This can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

5. Neuropathy: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) can result in numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet.

6. Gastrointestinal Issues: Chemotherapy can cause diarrhea, constipation, and changes in bowel habits.

7. Mouth Sores: Some chemotherapy drugs can lead to mouth sores and mucositis.

8. Low Blood Cell Counts: Chemotherapy may decrease white blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infection, and reduce platelet counts, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising.

9. Changes in Taste and Appetite: Some people experience changes in taste perception and a decrease in appetite.

Side Effects of Radiation Therapy:
1. Skin Changes: Radiation therapy can cause skin redness, irritation, and peeling in the treated area. This is often referred to as radiation dermatitis.

2. Fatigue: Radiation therapy can lead to fatigue, especially as treatment progresses.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Radiation to the abdominal area may result in diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and changes in bowel habits.

4. Urinary Issues: Pelvic radiation can lead to urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort.

5. Sexual Dysfunction: For some individuals, radiation therapy in the pelvic region can result in sexual dysfunction.

6. Blood Changes: In rare cases, radiation therapy to the pelvic bone marrow may cause blood count changes, such as a drop in white blood cells or platelets.

It's essential to communicate any side effects you experience during treatment with your healthcare team. They can offer strategies to manage side effects, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, or recommend supportive care measures. In many cases, side effects are temporary and can be effectively managed, allowing patients to complete their treatment and recover.