Bowel Problems After Radiation: What helps with loose bowels?

It is 8 years since radiation.The challenges stared reducing gradually every year. Though at times they come back to remind me to stay on track with my healthy life style.Comfortably uncomfortable:)

Several years ago I had Urethra cancer, extreme radiation and chemo treatments in pelvic region . Yes, I had fecal incontinence or diarrhea continuously. And then came bowel adhesions and blockages. Ended up with colostomy still have diarrhea and occasional blockages but something I have to live with. I’m now 72 years old. Recently colon cancer.

Hi @magscratch, you might find the tips shared in this related discussion to be helpful:
- Living with long-term bowel side effects post anal cancer treatment https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/living-with-long-term-bowel-side-effects-post-anal-cancer-treatment/
- Uncontrollable loose bowels: When does it get better?https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/uncontrollable-loose-motion/

Have things improved since your adjusted your over-the-counter medications?

I stopped the Colace (twice a day). My bowels are still loose but not as much. Really not too much change. I'm not incontinent and I am very gassy. I do feel as though my bowels are not emptying completely when I use the toilet. I am waiting to hear back from my GI re this update. I will also see the Oncology Surgeon next week for a checkup; I don't know how much info she can add (is this her department?), but I will address it. I always believe that, "Knowledge is Power and....It could be worse", so I'll get as much info as I can and accept what is.
Thank you so much for your messages. They mean a lot to me.

Just came across this in MedPage about a clinical trial for fecal incontinence comparing biofeedback to an injection. Didn’t know there was an injection available. I am 7 months post treatment (radiation and capecitabine) for stage III. I am now beginning to stabilize somewhat, but have to be mindful of diet, time of day. Energy level is good, but have gained only 2lbs from 15 lost. This forum has helped me understand that while there are changes that I will have to live with, I AM getting better.
https://www.cghjournal.org/article/S1542-3565(26)00746-9/abstract

I had anal cancer 20 years ago. It went well and has not returned from the radiation and chemo. No surgery! However, as the months turned into years, I had more and more problems with my bowels. I was always going could not control it could not feel it have since learned that that’s what happens even years after. I was always wearing and changing pants. And always, always in the bathtub lol. Fast-forward 20 years later, I tried the Medtronic intrstim stimulator. Did not work for me. Worst decision I ever made. It has been a year and I’ve had so many other issues and complications. I’m looking to have it removed very soon. However, I went to a hematology/oncology doctor. He didn’t have anything to offer as far as the cancer, which is long gone and they don’t think it will be back but I did start getting IV’s and supplements for my deficiencies. I guess a kind of immunotherapy if you will. And in just 30 days, the pain is gone, the constant accidents all day have ceased. And I am starting to feel the urge again. Can’t explain it, but it’s helped me tremendously. Best decision I ever made. Insurance only covers a part of it and I pay the rest, but it is well worth it. Call me if you want to talk more.618 660 5934

I would be interested in knowing what supplements you are taking. I am only 4 years out of anal cancer and feel somewhat as you do with bowel problems.

@magscratch I can’t explain it. I only know that after over-the-counter drugs and Gastro even the Medtronic neurostimulator the oncologist treatment worked for me.

I’m 6 mo post treatment with capecitabine/radiation. It took a month to recover enough to leave the house. Lost 15 lbs from explosive diarrhea. Recently began a supplement that is primarily berberine, licorice, star anise, quercetin, resveratrol. My stools are firmer, more predictable. Fingers crossed that it is sustainable.

I have found Depends / paper pants to be great & always keep a couple pairs in the car.
They are comfortable so I rarely wear regulars panties. I always wear them at night also.