Causes of anal swelling and pain after radiotherapy for rectal cancer

Anal swelling and pain after radiotherapy for rectal cancer is mainly caused by radiation proctitis, which can cause congestion and edema of the rectal mucosa, and even erosion and necrosis.

1. Impact of radiation proctitis: During radiotherapy, high-energy radiation can damage normal rectal mucosal tissue. The damaged mucosa will become congested, edematous, and even eroded and necrotic. This damage will not only cause anal swelling and pain, but may also lead to increased bowel movements and severe pain during defecation. Radiation proctitis is a common complication after radiotherapy, and patients need to pay special attention.

2. Local pain and inflammatory response: Local pain after radiotherapy is caused by inflammatory response. After the rectal mucosa is damaged, the body will start the self-repair mechanism and release a large number of inflammatory mediators. These inflammatory mediators will stimulate nerve endings and cause pain. The use of analgesic suppositories can effectively relieve local pain and also reduce the patient's discomfort.

3. Difficult and frequent defecation: Due to the damage to the rectal mucosa, patients may experience difficult and frequent defecation. Inflammation and edema of the rectum can make defecation more difficult, and patients may feel tenesmus, that is, a strong urge to defecate but difficulty in defecation. In order to alleviate this symptom, patients are advised to increase fiber intake in their diet to keep their bowels open.

4. The role of Chinese medicine treatment: Chinese medicine has a certain effect in reducing the inflammatory response after radiotherapy. Chinese medicine can reduce pain and inflammation by improving local blood circulation and reducing the release of inflammatory mediators. Commonly used Chinese medicines include Coptis chinensis and Scutellaria baicalensis, which have the effects of clearing away heat and detoxifying, reducing swelling and relieving pain.

5. The healing effect of time: As time goes by, the rectal mucosal damage caused by radiotherapy will gradually repair. Patients need to wait patiently and cooperate with the doctor's treatment plan to gradually alleviate the symptoms. During this period, maintaining good living habits and eating habits is very important for recovery.

6. Adjustment of lifestyle habits: After radiotherapy, patients should pay attention to keeping the area around the anus clean to avoid infection. At the same time, they should avoid spicy food, drink plenty of water, and keep bowel movements smooth. Appropriate exercise can also help improve the body's immunity and accelerate recovery.

7. Importance of psychological support: Anal swelling and pain after radiotherapy not only causes physical distress, but also affects the patient's psychological state. Patients need the support of family and friends to maintain a positive and optimistic attitude. Psychological counseling and support groups can also provide help and reduce psychological pressure.

Through the comprehensive treatment and adjustment of the above points, the symptoms of anal swelling and pain after radiotherapy for rectal cancer can be gradually alleviated. Patients need to cooperate closely with doctors, follow doctor's advice, and maintain good living habits to better cope with the discomfort symptoms after radiotherapy.