UCSFHealth and NIH say
After 30 sessions of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for prostate cancer, most men experience a mix of short-term side effects, which can vary in intensity and duration:
• Fatigue is very common and can persist for several weeks after treatment ends.
• Urinary symptoms such as increased frequency, urgency, weaker stream, burning, and sometimes blood in the urine often develop midway through treatment and may last a few weeks after finishing, but typically improve over time.
• Bowel issues like diarrhea, softer or more frequent stools, rectal irritation, or occasional blood are also common, with most symptoms resolving within weeks, though some may persist longer.
• Sexual side effects, particularly erectile dysfunction, can occur and may persist or worsen over time.
• Emotional responses include anxiety about whether the treatment was successful, but many men adapt to the changes, often normalizing symptoms as part of aging.
Most men find the treatment more manageable than expected, though some side effects can be bothersome. While many symptoms improve within a few months, a minority may experience longer-term issues with urinary, bowel, or sexual function. Overall, quality of life tends to recover, but ongoing support and communication with healthcare providers are important