An Overview of Radiation therapy for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second most potent cancer prevalent cancer. Colorectal cancer is the cancer of the colon and rectum. In colorectal cancer, there are many tumorous growths which spread to other parts of your body. It is also very hard to know that someone has colorectal cancer as it’s mainly symptomless. 

It is possible to know if you have colorectal cancer through a diagnostic process like
Colonoscopy and Blood test. If your doctor suspects that you have colorectal cancer.
A doctor will conduct these tests. Once it's confirmed you have colorectal cancer then the right means of treatment will be suggested by the specialist himself. Hence, you need to consult the best oncologist in India.

When is radiation therapy used for colorectal cancer?

Today more and more doctors are going for Radiation therapy for colorectal cancer.
This has emerged as a revolutionary and successful option in healing colorectal cancer.

Radiation therapy is the most effective Colorectal cancer treatment as it works on both colon and rectal cancer. However, there are certain conditions which makes you an ideal candidate for radiation therapy. This will normally be suggested by your doctor. In colon cancer radiation therapy will work only if;

• It is done before your chemotherapy. This helps in reducing the size of the tumour. And improves the chances of successful removal of the tumour.
  
• Sometimes it is used during the surgery to remove any traces of cancer cells. It is the most effective way to search and kill remaining cancer cells from the tumour formation area.
• At the same time, it is extremely beneficial in easing colorectal cancer symptoms. This can aid in lessening signs like Intestinal blockage and pain.

In Rectal cancer radiation therapy is recommended in situations like;

• Radiation therapy is the treatment to reduce the large size of the rectal cancer tumour.  After this cancer can be removed easily.
• It is also good in retrieving tumours which may reoccur in the pelvis after radiation therapy.   

Now it is clear that radiation therapy is the best possible way to heal colorectal cancer. A knowledgeable doctor will suggest the right form of radiation treatment. It varies from case to case as one type of radiation therapy doesn’t suit all.There are several different therapies.

Types of radiation therapy :

• External beam radiation therapy.

This is the most common form of therapy for people who suffer from either colon or rectal cancer. The duration is dependent on factors responsible for therapy. In a normal scenario, this therapy may last for days or weeks.

• Internal radiation therapy.

This treatment works directly on the rectum. In this therapy, a radioactive source is put in your rectum.

Side effects of radiation therapy for colon cancer

As with any treatment radiation therapy has side effects. Your doctor will inform you beforehand for these side effects. However, one must know that it is mainly temporary. The most common side effects which one may experience are:

• Skin irritation- One may develop skin irritation at the site of therapy. You may feel that your skin becomes red, blistered or peels easily.
• One may experience sudden fatigue.
• Also, you may develop nausea.
• There may be sudden irritation in your rectal like diarrhoea and blood in the stool. 

Most of these effects will go away once your treatment ends. But if it doesn't, it's best to consult your doctor. 

Dr.Rudra acharya is a well-known oncologist and is successful in dealing with or providing Colorectal cancer treatment in Delhi.