Radiation Enteritis

Overview

Radiation enteritis is a complication of cancer treatment. It occurs when the small bowel becomes inflamed after radiation therapy. Signs and symptoms include a loss of appetite, nausea and diarrhea, which usually cease after radiation therapy ends. But radiation enteritis can persist in some people. Special diets and medication can help control the symptoms and improve your quality of life. Surgery is occasionally needed.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for radiation enteritis

• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic doctors diagnose and treat hundreds of people with radiation enteritis.
• Expertise. People with radiation enteritis sometimes need nutritional support (tube feeding) at home. Mayo has comprehensive home nutritional support programs. Mayo doctors also have experience weaning some people off liquid nutrition.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

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