Ramaswamy Viswanathan reveals how to silence your racing thoughts at night

In the UK, an individual reported experiencing frequent nighttime bowel movements for the past two months, prompting a colonoscopy that ruled out cancer. Following prior treatment for prostate cancer, the patient was advised to consider diverticulitis as a potential cause and to increase dietary fiber intake. Dr Ellie Cannon explained that such bowel issues could arise as a result of prostate cancer treatment, specifically due to the effects of radiotherapy on the lower intestines, leading to conditions like chronic proctopathy. Typical symptoms of this condition encompass incontinence, urgency to use the toilet, diarrhea, and mucus discharge, which could contribute to the noted disruptions in nighttime bowel habits. Additionally, it's essential to understand that the aging process and the impact of existing health conditions, such as diabetes, can complicate gastrointestinal issues further. The patient has type 2 diabetes and is currently using gliclazide to manage blood sugar levels, which could also play a role in overall bowel health. Gliclazide is known for stimulating insulin production, yet it carries rare risks of liver inflammation. Hence, while dietary adjustments are suggested for alleviating the patient’s issues, continuous monitoring of diabetic treatment is vital as well. On a broader scale, these complications highlight the importance of ongoing discussions and awareness regarding the side effects of cancer treatments. They remind patients and healthcare providers to consider the full spectrum of potential aftereffects. Seeking medical advice and potentially engaging with specialists, like pelvic physiotherapists, may provide additional support for affected individuals. Overall, the interplay of cancer treatment and subsequent health challenges underscores the complexity of patient care in survivorship and the need for comprehensive strategies to assure quality of life. Efforts must focus on enhancing awareness about the common side effects associated with cancer treatments among patients and healthcare networks. The case discussed illustrates a tangible example of how historical medical treatments can manifest in real-time health complications, and it brings to light the critical need for educating patients about these risks and the importance of reporting changes in their health post-treatment.