Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment which is used by best medical oncologist in Delhi in which uses your own body’s immune system to fight cancer. It is given intravenously (through your vein).
Immunotherapy is NOT chemotherapy:
- Some side effects of Immunotherapy may be similar to those of chemotherapy, but they are managed differently.
- It is important to ensure that any side effects are reported to your Cancer Team or your best medical oncologist in delhi IMMEDIATELY. Untreated side effects may be life threatening.
- Treating side effects early may prevent your Immunotherapy treatments from being discontinued.
- It can take time for your tumour to respond to your treatment as your immune system works hard behind the scenes to fight your cancer. This can also mean that your tumour may appear larger before it gets smaller. This is a normal response to Immunotherapy.
How does Immunotherapy Work?
Cancer cells find ways to protect themselves from your immune system. Immunotherapy can:
- mark or ‘unhide’ cancer cells so the body knows they are harmful and should be attacked
- boost your immune system making it stronger to fight against the cancer cells
Possible Side Effects
It is possible that Immunotherapy can cause your immune system to become confused. If this happens, your healthy cells may be affected and become inflamed. This inflammation can happen anywhere in your body. Side effects from immunotherapy can occur at any time during your treatment, even several months after treatment has stopped.
Gastrointestinal System (Stomach and Bowels)
- Diarrhea (loose stools) or more bowel movements than usual
- Blood in your stools or dark, tarry, sticky stools
- Severe abdominal (stomach) pain or tenderness
Skin
- Itching
- Rash
- Skin blistering or peeling
Lungs Changes in your breathing are uncommon but can be serious:
- New or worsening cough
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
OTHER SYMPTOMS
Immunotherapy can cause symptoms in ANY part of the body. If you develop ANY symptoms, even if not mentioned in this:
- Redness of irritation of the eye
- Eye pain or blurry vision
- Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Pain on the right side of your abdomen (stomach)
- Drowsiness
- Dark urine (tea coloured)
- Bleeding or bruising more easily than normal
- Feeling less hungry than usual (loss of appetite)
- Decrease in the amount of urine
- Blood in your urine
- Swelling in your ankles
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What effect will Immunotherapy have on my other medications?
It is important for your Cancer Care Team or Best Cancer Doctor in Delhi to be aware of any other medications you are taking or are prescribed. They will determine if they are safe to take with your Immunotherapy.
2. Can I take antibiotics?
Yes, it is safe to take antibiotics. Tell the health care provider that you are on Immunotherapy and present your wallet card. Notify your Cancer Care Team or Best Cancer Doctor in Delhi that you are on antibiotics.
3. Can I take vitamin and herbal supplements?
It is important for your Cancer Care Team to be aware of any vitamins or herbal supplements you are (or plan on) taking. They will help you decide if they are safe to take.
4. Can I receive vaccinations/immunizations?
Ask your Cancer Care Team about vaccinations before receiving them.
5. Can I go on vacation?
Please discuss your vacation plans with your Cancer Care Team before you book any plans. Please carry your Immunotherapy Wallet Card with you on any trips.
6. Can I drink alcohol?
In general, alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum while on Immunotherapy. Please bring any questions regarding alcohol consumption to the attention of your Cancer Care Team.
7. Can I drive and/or operate machinery?
In general, it is safe to drive while on Immunotherapy; however, fatigue may hinder your ability to safely do so
8. Can I have my hair dyed?
Yes. However, if you develop a skin reaction during your treatment, it is possible that hair dye may aggravate this. Please check with your Cancer Care Team with any concerns.
9. Can I hug and kiss loved ones while on Immunotherapy?
Yes, it is safe to hug or kiss loved ones while on Immunotherapy.
10. How long will I be on treatment? Length of treatment can vary from person to person. Please check with your Cancer Care Team
