Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Radiation enteropathy history and symptoms
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Radiation enteropathy or radiation enteritis is the syndrome that develops after the intestine is exposed to radiation.
Symptoms
Symptoms
- Symptoms may be different depending on what part of the intestines received the radiation.
- Changes in bowel movements may include:
- Bleeding or mucus from the rectum
- Diarrhea or watery stools
- Feeling the need to have a bowel movement most or all of the time
- Pain in the rectal area, especially during bowel movements
- Other symptoms can include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach cramping or pain
- Most of the time, these symptoms get better within 2 – 3 weeks after radiation treatment ends. This is called acute radiation enteritis.
- When symptoms become long-term (chronic), other problems may include:
- Bloody diarrhea
- Greasy or fatty stools
- Weight loss
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]