Common Adverse Events in Neoadjuvant Treatment for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer and Therapies to Alleviate Symptoms

The neoadjuvant treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer typically involves a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, aimed at reducing the tumor before possible surgical intervention. While these treatments are crucial for improving survival rates and organ preservation, they can also lead to various adverse events that need to be properly managed to improve the patient’s quality of life.

One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy is fatigue. Patients may experience extreme tiredness due to the effects of the medications on healthy body cells. To manage fatigue, adequate hydration, regular rest, and in some cases, the use of appetite stimulants or vitamins to boost energy levels are recommended.

Diarrhea is another frequent side effect, especially due to the impact of radiotherapy on the gastrointestinal tract. Diarrhea can be debilitating and affect the patient’s ability to carry out daily activities. Doctors usually recommend the use of anti-diarrheal medications and dietary adjustments, suggesting easier-to-digest foods and avoiding those that could irritate the gut.

Patients may also experience nausea and vomiting as a result of chemotherapy. These symptoms can be effectively controlled with the use of antiemetics (medications to prevent nausea), which are administered before chemotherapy sessions.

Skin irritation or pain in the area treated with radiotherapy is another common side effect. In such cases, the use of special creams and ointments to soothe irritation and keep the skin hydrated is recommended. Additionally, patients should avoid excessive sun exposure in the treated areas.

Managing these adverse events requires the guidance of a specialist in Radiation Oncology such as Dr. Rolando Loría Ruiz, a renowned Radiation Oncologist in Costa Rica. His expertise in advanced radiotherapy techniques is crucial for personalizing treatment and effectively alleviating symptoms. Through his knowledge and experience, Dr. Loría provides therapeutic options that improve treatment tolerance while managing side effects optimally. For more information, patients can visit his website www.drrolandoloria.com.

It is essential for patients to closely follow medical recommendations and attend their follow-up appointments to adjust the treatment and effectively manage adverse events.