Radiation Therapy - Week Two

DAY ONE

Well today I started my second week of Radiation Treatment (R/T). At the beginning of each new week, patients routinely review their progress regarding the previous week's treatment with their Radiation Oncologist.

While awaiting my turn to see the Radiation Oncologist, I couldn't help but notice the enormous volume of 'patient files' arrayed behind me!

At present, the Radiation Oncology Department is running at only 'two thirds capacity' as one of the Linear Accelerators is being replaced with a latest: 'state of the art machine'. Even so, the Radiation Oncology Department sees between 100 and 110 patients per day!!

Weekly Review

The appointment with my Radiation Oncologist went well, although it is very early in my treatment to expect any major indications 'one way or the other'. After a discussion re the range of side effects I'm contending with, and weighing the pros and cons of each medication etc; it was decided that no change of my current medications was required.


New Medication

However, we did decide that since I was getting up to urinate at least 3 times every night; that this, should be targeted in terms of possible relief. With that in mind, I was prescribed 'Flomaxtra' which hopefully will cut the trips to the toilet down to one or two at most.


Flomaxtra

When you pass urine, the urine travels from the bladder through the urethra which runs through the prostate. When the prostate gland becomes large, the urethra becomes narrow. The urethra may even become blocked. If this happens, no urine can be passed. This is a medical emergency!

FLOMAXTRA(R) is a medicine which relaxes smooth muscle, especially in the prostate. Which allows the urethra to expand to its normal size. This in turns allows the urine to flow more naturally.


Side Effects

Most men prescribed FLOMAXTRA(R) benefit. As with any medicines, some side effects may occur. FLOMAXTRA(R) does not usually cause any problems. If you develop a skin rash, itchiness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue, tell your doctor immediately, as you may be having an allergic reaction to FLOMAXTRA(R).

Swelling of the face, lips or tongue may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing. One side effect of FLOMAXTRA(R)is known as "retrograde ejaculation". When this happens the ejaculation fluid is not squirted out, most of it runs back into the bladder. Retrograde ejaculation is painless. Other side effects reported by people taking FLOMAXTRA(R) include dizziness, headache, itching, weakness, dizziness on standing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, rash, fast heart beats and blocked nose.

FLOMAXTRA(R) can occasionally cause people to feel faint and dizzy. You should get up slowly from the sitting or lying position to reduce the risk of dizziness or light-headedness. If you do feel faint on standing up, you should lie down for a short while. If the dizziness persists you should contact your doctor. You must not drive a car or operate machinery if you feel dizzy. This is not a complete listing.

Other unwanted effects may occur in some men. Tell your doctor if you notice any other effects or if the unwanted effects are particularly bothersome. You should always tell your doctor about any problems you have whilst taking FLOMAXTRA(R).