Radiation injury can be divided into an acute and a chronic phase. An acute injury occurs within six weeks of radiation treatment. Symptoms associated with an acute injury include diarrhea, urgency, fecal incontinence, and rectal bleeding. The onset of these symptoms can be attributed to the changes in the colon and rectum caused by radiation exposure. Symptoms may include acute inflammation, decreased mucus production, and accumulation of fluid beneath the intestinal lining (submucosal edema). Many patients will have resolution of these symptoms once the radiation exposure has ceased.
This is an important topic that’s often overlooked. Understanding acute radiation injuries helps both patients and clinicians predict and manage side effects effectively. Early recognition and supportive care can make a big difference in patient comfort and outcomes.
For cancer patients undergoing pelvic radiation therapy, proactive symptom management and quality of life enhancement depend on an understanding of acute radiation-induced damage.