What Are The Side Effects Of Immunotherapy?

Fatigue And Weakness

Fatigue and weakness are two of the most common side effects to manifest in individuals undergoing immunotherapy. This side effect is mainly the result of the stimulated immune system's effects on hormone release from glands. Commonly affected glands include the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands. Because hormones play a significant role in metabolic processes that synthesize nutrients into energy, any disturbance that results from immunotherapy can cause the patient to feel exhaustion and weakness.

In addition, nausea and vomiting that may occur following immunotherapy treatment may lead to a reduction in the regular consumption of nutrient-rich food due to poor appetite. Without consuming enough nutritional value through diet, the affected individual will feel weak and fatigued frequently. There are few medications that can alleviate the fatigue and weakness that results from immunotherapy. Stimulants may help, but can only be used for a short period. However, a few different changes in an affected individual's lifestyle may help. These changes include taking short naps or rest breaks during the day, sleeping at least seven to eight hours a night, and avoiding consumption of caffeine.

Decreased Appetite

Decreased appetite is a common side effect seen in individuals being treated with immunotherapy. This can present as an individual who eats less than usual, feels full after eating a minimal amount of food, or just someone does not feel hungry at all. A decrease in appetite can be the result of digestive irritation caused by an overactive immune system attacking healthy tissues from immunotherapy. Associated nausea and vomiting can cause a patient to have a poor appetite. Fatigue caused by the effects of immunotherapy can also be a significant factor in the reduction of an individual's appetite.

Immunotherapy can have an inflammatory impact on an individual's bowels, causing them to experience constipation and diarrhea, which may also contribute to a poor appetite. If an individual is being treated for cancer located in their abdomen or nearby organs through the use of immunotherapy, irritation may occur at the site that causes swelling. Any swelling in the abdomen can push on the stomach or bowel, making a patient feel full quickly.