What next after radiotherapy?

[Thetoad]

I've just finished 60Gy in 20 Fractions. The current side effects are minimal - loose stools about 5 times a day and frequent urination but not at night. I had a large section of bowel removed 5 years ago and am now disease free of that cancer. I had my gallbladder removed about 18 months ago. The PC is Intermediate Favourable, G7 (3+4.) So what to expect now? I have a follow up appt mid March and expect there will be more PSA tests. The last one was 7.4 in July 2018. The cancer was localised and was present in 2 out of 13 samples on the right side. I have an anxiety problem which is probably why I'm posting this!

[Tall_Allen]

Nothing to do but wait now. 3 months after your treatment ended, you will have another PSA test. PSA is usually lower by then. It took me 4 years to reach my nadir PSA (0.1) with bounces along the way. Slow descent and bounces are associated with longer lasting cures, so patience is rewarded.

[Classical6]

I echo what TA said. I am in the same situation. Will have my PSA test in March. My Uriligist said that the first test will probably be higher than anticipated. Patience is key. Also, remember that sugar is not necessarily a friend to cancer. Moderation is important in this area. Stay strong!

[aceace12]

im curious who prompted the radiotherapy your urologist or oncologist ??? and what was the determining factory the PSA or the 2 cores gleason 7 ?

[dadzone43]

Isn't the anxiety the hardest to deal with! You will monitor your PSA and busy yourself with the important lifestyle changes of exercise, nutrition and meditation. ALL are important. You are doing well and it will be smazing to ser ghe drop in PSA. GOOD LUCK.

[Thetoad]

Aceace12. He is a Consultant Radiation Oncologist. I think the 2 cores were the main reason for radiation, nobody seemed bothered by the 7.4 PSA. I'm still having side effects 12 days after completion, mainly several loose BM's each morning which I did anyway but not so many, slightly painful pee and not much of a flow especially first thing and traces of red blood on the skin around the anus but not always. It's all a bit raw there so I use Ultraproct ointment. I'm too afraid to ejaculate yet as it will probably hurt! Not essential at this time methinks. A conversation with a radio therapist this morning was not to worry but see my GP if these persist for another week or so. I'm not toooooo bothered ATM, but the niggling anxiety creeps up on me sometimes.

[Thetoad]

I have to drink Ural sachets 3 or 4 times a day for the burning pee etc. Now I'm told by a rt nurse that symptoms could take two to six weeks after treatment, so I'll have to wait. I'm seeing my Dr next Monday for the regular three monthly check so I'll take my list of questions. Using baby wipes and aqueous cream for raw anus now. Great idea!