Beth, radiation does not typically result in internal bleeding. However, if your platelets are low, possibly from chemo or cancer itself, then that can be a cause-effect relationship. I would consult your medical oncologist ASAP if you are having this complication.
Beth,
I would also like to add, radiation complications depend on many factors such as the site receiving radiation, the number of fractions (radiation) rounds, medication, etc. Example: if the site is colon, this can increase the risk for an acute radiation-induced bleeding known as hemorrhagic gastritis. Just as with the lungs, radiation has an increased risk for radiation induced lung injury that can lead to a condition known as radiation pneumonitis as well as other chronic lung conditions.
In closing, Yes! radiation can cause many complications. It is site and risk factor dependent. Again, please reach out to your oncology team-radiation, medical, surgical, and primary care. For your medical team can best evaluate the side effects.
Are you worried that the home test detected blood? Perhaps, especially if you have been dealing with constipation or diarrhea, that the test is detecting blood from either hemorrhoids or small tears (anal fissures). I know you are worried, keeping you in prayers, Tight hugs!
I would definitely check with my medical team. It may cause low platelet count. Also how bad your bleeding. Either way do not wait. As for home tests for colon stuff they can be out dated or unreliable. There's only two types of tests for colon screening the card type and the cologuard. I did both a while ago. My prayers are with you.
The home tests can give false pisutuves, in which case a colonoscopy would be the appropriate follow up. My partner is going through that now.
Something I haven’t heard of