Uterine Cancer (cont.)
Side effects of cancer treatment
Because cancer treatment may damage healthy cells and tissues, unwanted side
effects sometimes occur. These side effects depend on many factors, including
the type and extent of the treatment. Side effects may not be the same for each
person, and they may even change from one treatment session to the next. Before
treatment starts, doctors and nurses will explain the possible side effects and
how they will help you manage them.
Surgery
After a hysterectomy, women usually have some pain and feel extremely tired.
Most women return to their normal activities within 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.
Some may need more time than that.
Some women may have problems with nausea and vomiting after surgery, and some
may have bladder and bowel problems. The doctor may restrict the woman's diet to
liquids at first, with a gradual return to solid food.
Women who have had a hysterectomy no longer have menstrual periods and can no
longer get pregnant. When the ovaries are removed, menopause occurs at once. Hot
flashes and other symptoms of menopause caused by surgery may be more severe
than those caused by natural menopause. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is
often given to women who have not had uterine cancer to relieve these problems.
However, doctors usually do not give the hormone estrogen to women who have had
uterine cancer. Because estrogen is a risk factor for this disease (see "Uterine
Cancer: Who's at Risk?"), many doctors are concerned that estrogen may cause
uterine cancer to return. Other doctors point out that there is no scientific
evidence that estrogen increases the risk that cancer will come back. NCI is
sponsoring a large research study to learn whether women who have had early
stage uterine cancer can take estrogen safely.
For some women, a hysterectomy can affect sexual intimacy. A woman may have
feelings of loss that may make intimacy difficult. Sharing these feelings with
her partner may be helpful.
Radiation therapy
The side effects of radiation therapy depend mainly on the treatment dose and
the part of the body that is treated. Common side effects of radiation include
dry, reddened skin and hair loss in the treated area, loss of appetite, and
extreme tiredness. Some women may have dryness, itching, tightening, and burning
in the vagina. Radiation also may cause diarrhea or frequent and uncomfortable
urination. It may reduce the number of white blood cells, which help protect the
body against infection.
Doctors may advise their patients not to have intercourse during radiation
therapy. However, most can resume sexual activity within a few weeks after
treatment ends. The doctor or nurse may suggest ways to relieve any vaginal
discomfort related to treatment.
Hormonal therapy
Hormonal therapy can cause a number of side effects. Women taking
progesterone may retain fluid, have an increased appetite, and gain weight.
Women who are still menstruating may have changes in their periods.
Nutrition
People need to eat well during cancer therapy. They need enough calories and
protein to promote healing, maintain strength, and keep a healthy weight. Eating
well often helps people with cancer feel better and have more energy.
Patients may not feel like eating if they are uncomfortable or tired. Also,
the side effects of treatment such as poor appetite, nausea, or vomiting can
make eating difficult. Foods may taste different.
The doctor, dietitian, or other health care provider can advise patients
about ways to maintain a healthy diet.
Followup care
Followup care after treatment for uterine cancer is important. Women should
not hesitate to discuss followup with their doctor. Regular checkups ensure that
any changes in health are noticed. Any problem that develops can be found and
treated as soon as possible. Checkups may include a physical exam, a pelvic
exam, x-rays, and laboratory tests.
Next: What support is available for patients with uterine cancer? »
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