Immunotherapy gives hope to millions of cancer patients worldwide. Unlike traditional or conventional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, which are notorious for harming healthy cells, immunotherapy harnesses the body’s natural defenses to combat disease more precisely and effectively.
New Hope Unlimited is one of the leading cancer treatment centers offering immunotherapy for breast, stomach, and other cancers. Like any treatment, it can have side effects, but they are milder and more manageable. Let’s discuss these common side effects, why they occur, and how to manage them to provide reassurance and practical advice for patients and caregivers.
What Is Immunotherapy and Why It’s Different
Immunotherapy works by activating or enhancing the immune system’s natural ability to identify and neutralize diseased cells. While chemotherapy and radiation indiscriminately targets rapidly dividing cells (both cancerous and healthy), immunotherapy is specific. It locks in on malignant cells and keeps most healthy cells intact.
How Immunotherapy Works
Different types of immunotherapy have mechanisms to boost the immune system’s efficiency and specificity. Below are the three commonly used methods in medicine today:
1. Checkpoint Inhibitors
Checkpoint inhibitors target immune system “checkpoints,” which are proteins that cancer cells exploit to evade detection. These drugs release the brakes on the immune system, allowing T cells to detect and suppress cancer cells more effectively.
FDA-approved immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab and nivolumab have successfully treated cancers such as melanoma and lung cancer by blocking checkpoint proteins like PD-1 and CTLA-4.
2. CAR T-Cell Therapy
CAR T-cell therapy engineers a patient’s own T cells in the lab to better distinguish and eliminate cancer cells. Cancer care specialists then infuse these reprogrammed cells back into the patient, where they seek out and destroy cancer with more precision.
CAR T-cell therapy can treat certain blood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma. It offers hope to patients who may not respond to other treatments.
3. Cytokine Therapy
Cytokine therapy uses proteins like interleukins and interferons to amplify the immune response. These signaling molecules improve communication between immune cells to enable a stronger and more coordinated attack against malignant cells. For example, interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapy addresses metastatic melanoma and kidney (renal) cancer by boosting the growth and activity of cancer-fighting immune cells. In fact, IL-2 is the first and only systemic treatment capable of curing patients with late-stage renal cell cancer.
At New Hope Unlimited, our advanced immunotherapy techniques minimize harm to healthy tissues for a more targeted and patient-friendly treatment. Focusing on precision and innovative care lets us improve outcomes while protecting our patients’ quality of life.
Why Side Effects Occur in Immunotherapy
As immunotherapy “reboots” and strengthens the immune system, this heightened activity can sometimes affect normal cells. These side effects result from an overactive immune response, which is a stark contrast to the systemic damage often resulting from chemotherapy or radiation exposure.
How Common Are Side Effects?
About 30 to 50% of patients experience mild side effects from immunotherapy, while severe side effects occur in less than 5% of cases. In comparison, over 66.7% of patients experience six or more side effects from chemo, while 97.4% of patients experience at least one side effect from radiation therapy.
Common Side Effects of Immunotherapy
For years, the American Society of Clinical Oncology has acknowledged the promising effects of immunotherapy, evident in the American Association for Cancer Research’s Annual Cancer Progress report. Immunotherapy exhibited many successes in treating different cancers. Though the treatment is revolutionary, patients, doctors, and caregivers still need to be aware of the risks of rebooting the immune system.
Immunotherapy side effects vary based on the type of treatment and individual patient factors. Here are the most frequently reported side effects, along with explanations to provide clarity and reassurance.
1. Skin-Related Reactions
Skin-related side effects are the most common reactions to immunotherapy. These effects occur because the increased immune activity stimulated by the treatment may inadvertently target healthy skin cells, leading to inflammation. While skin issues can be inconvenient, they are typically mild and manageable, especially compared to the more severe side effects of chemotherapy, including hair loss and extensive skin peeling, immunotherapy-related skin issues tend to be localized and temporary. These reactions are a sign that the immune system is active, but they seldom require the interruption of treatment. Patients should report skin changes promptly, as early management can prevent discomfort and complications.
Symptoms include:
- Rash, ranging from mild redness to slightly raised bumps
- Persistent itching or irritation
- Dryness or flakiness of the skin
Management tips for the skin-related side effects of immunotherapy:
- Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce dryness and irritation
- Avoid harsh soaps or skin products that may exacerbate sensitivity
- Consult your healthcare provider for topical corticosteroids or antihistamines to alleviate itching or inflammation
At New Hope Unlimited, we guide patients on how to care for their skin during immunotherapy and provide immediate interventions to keep them comfortable throughout treatment.
2. Flu-Like Symptoms
Flu-like symptoms are a common side effect of immunotherapy. Mild fatigue, fever, chills, and muscle aches resemble the body’s natural response to an infection. While they can be uncomfortable, these side effects are mild, temporary, and manageable with simple at-home remedies.
Compared to the extreme fatigue and systemic effects associated with traditional treatments, immunotherapy-induced flu-like symptoms resolve within a few days and are less disruptive to daily life. These symptoms are often an encouraging sign that the treatment is actively engaging the immune system to target diseased cells.
Symptoms include:
- Low-grade fever that may feel like a mild feverish sensation
- Fatigue, which can vary from slight tiredness to a need for additional rest
- Chills or shivering episodes, especially after treatment sessions
- Muscle or joint discomfort, similar to the sensations experienced during a common cold or flu
Management tips for flu-like symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and support recovery
- Use over-the-counter remedies like acetaminophen to reduce fever and alleviate aches
- Listen to the body and take breaks when needed
- Warm blankets or heating pads can ease chills and muscle stiffness
At New Hope Medical Center, careful monitoring and early communication about any concerns allow us to provide personalized solutions and reinforce our commitment to patient well-being.
3. Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are another possible side effect of immunotherapy, though they are less severe and occur less frequently than with traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or a loss of appetite can happen because the immune system, when activated, may affect the cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
Unlike the more aggressive and widespread GI effects of chemo, such as severe nausea, vomiting, and debilitating diarrhea, immunotherapy-induced gastrointestinal symptoms are mild and easier to manage with lifestyle adjustments or medications.
Symptoms may include:
- A mild to moderate queasy feeling that may reduce the desire to eat
- Loose or more frequent bowel movements, typically temporary
- A diminished interest in eating
Gastrointestinal symptoms occur in 10 to 20% of immunotherapy patients, compared to 90% of chemotherapy patients. Severe gastrointestinal effects requiring intervention are rare, affecting only a small fraction of immunotherapy patients.
Management tips for immunotherapy-induced GI issues include:
- Eat small, frequent meals that are bland and easy to digest, such as toast, bananas, or rice
- Avoid spicy, greasy, or high-fiber foods during episodes of nausea or diarrhea
- Stay hydrated, especially when experiencing diarrhea, by drinking water, clear broths, or electrolyte-rich fluids
- Taking over-the-counter anti-nausea medications (e.g., dimenhydrinate) or antidiarrheal agents (e.g., loperamide) can help manage symptoms
- Consult a doctor for prescription options if symptoms persist or recur
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods like smoothies or protein shakes to ensure adequate caloric intake during periods of reduced appetite
Our healthcare providers work closely with patients to monitor symptoms, provide personalized dietary advice, and recommend medications. Addressing issues early and tailoring solutions to individual needs ensure that patients can continue their treatment with minimal discomfort.
4. Organ-Specific Effects (Rare)
Organ-specific effects can occur when the immune system, in its heightened activity, mistakenly targets healthy organ tissues within organs. This phenomenon, called immune-related adverse events (irAEs), is a sign of immune hyperactivity. While rare, they respond well to medical interventions, allowing patients to continue cancer treatment with minimal disruption.
Examples of organ-specific effects include:
- Pneumonitis (Lung Inflammation)
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- Occurs in less than 5% of patients
- Causes cough, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort
- Often treated with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Severe cases are rare and usually resolve with appropriate care
- Hepatitis (Liver Inflammation)
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- Extremely rare but may occur in isolated cases
- Symptoms include elevated liver enzymes detected in blood tests, possibly with fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain
- Routine blood tests detect issues early and allow doctors to control mild cases with medication, often corticosteroids or immune-modulating agents
- Endocrinopathies (Hormonal Dysfunction)
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- Affects about 10% of patients, commonly involving the thyroid gland
- Can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
- Manageable with hormone replacement therapy or other medications to balance thyroid activity
New Hope Unlimited prioritizes patient safety by conducting routine assessments to identify any signs of organ-specific effects before they progress or become life-threatening. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to provide tailored care, ensuring that even rare side effects are caught and managed as soon as possible.
Managing Immunotherapy Side Effects: Patient-Centric Care at New Hope Unlimited
We take a proactive approach to managing side effects. In particular, we focus on personalized care that keeps patients as comfortable and healthy as possible. Immunotherapy’s side effects, though mild in most cases, require vigilant management to maintain a patient’s quality of life during and after treatment. Our team combines advanced medical interventions, tailored lifestyle guidance, and ongoing monitoring to address every individual’s needs.
1. Personalized Monitoring
We provide every patient with a customized care plan that values early detection and immediate action. Our oncologists, nurses, and support staff conduct regular evaluations to find potential side effects at the earliest stage. These evaluations include physical exams, lab tests, and detailed discussions with patients about changes in how they’re feeling.
For instance, routine blood tests may detect early signs of liver inflammation (hepatitis), even before patients notice symptoms like fatigue or abdominal pain. Identifying these changes promptly allows us to initiate targeted interventions that prevent complications.
Moreover, we prioritize communication with patients. Our cancer care team provides accessible explanations of all monitoring results, which helps patients understand their condition and actively participate in their care.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
Below is a general overview of what we recommend to support overall well-being and improve one’s ability to handle treatment:
- Nutrition: Patients benefit from eating smaller, nutrient-rich meals throughout the day. Foods such as bananas, whole grains, and lean proteins help combat nausea, maintain energy levels, and support the body’s immune response. For those with reduced appetite, nutrient-packed smoothies or protein shakes can support caloric intake.
- Exercise: Light physical activities like stretching, walking, or yoga help reduce fatigue, enhance circulation, and promote emotional wellness.
- Rest: With or without cancer, adequate sleep is necessary, as it allows the body to repair and rejuvenate. We advise patients to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night and recommend short naps during the day if fatigue persists.
Lifestyle guidance at New Hope Unlimited is not one-size-fits-all. We tailor recommendations to match each patient’s health status, preferences, and treatment goals.
3. Medical Interventions
Beyond basic symptom management, our medical interventions include the latest advancements in medicine to mitigate discomfort, restore balance, and safeguard patient health. Here are examples of how we address the following:
- For skin reactions: Patients with rashes, itching, or dryness may receive anti-inflammatory creams, antihistamines, or topical corticosteroids. For severe cases, dermatology consultations provide additional expertise. For patients seeking non-pharmaceutical alternatives, soothing oatmeal baths, aloe vera gel, or moisturizers containing ceramides may help reduce irritation and hydrate the skin. Additionally, light therapy (phototherapy) may offer relief for certain inflammatory skin conditions.
- For fatigue: Physicians evaluate the timing and dosage of treatments to minimize energy loss. Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, may also reduce cancer-related fatigue.
- For severe reactions: In rare instances of organ-specific side effects or intense immune responses, advanced medications, including immune-modulating drugs or corticosteroids, may help. Emergency care teams remain available around the clock to address critical symptoms immediately.
Our care team also considers the emotional and psychological impact of side effects. We may recommend mindfulness exercises, such as guided meditation, to help reduce anxiety and improve coping mechanisms during treatment.
Benefits of Immunotherapy Over Conventional Treatments
Immunotherapy is a safer and more targeted alternative to traditional cancer therapies. While all treatments come with side effects, immunotherapy has advantages that make it more favorable.
1. Less Harm to Healthy Cells
One of immunotherapy’s defining features is its exactness. Unlike chemotherapy, which targets all dividing cells, including normal ones, immunotherapy boosts the immune system’s ability to find and kill cancer cells specifically. This approach reduces collateral damage to healthy tissues, sparing patients from the widespread toxic effects associated with chemotherapy drugs and radiation exposure.
For example, chemotherapy often causes hair loss, gastrointestinal distress, and damage to bone marrow, which can compromise immune function. In contrast, immunotherapy’s selective nature minimizes these risks, allowing patients to maintain their physical well-being and energy levels during treatment.
2. Durable Responses
Compared to traditional therapies, which frequently require repeated cycles due to cancer recurrence, immunotherapy equips the immune system to continue targeting cancer cells over the long term. Checkpoint inhibitors, for instance, help the immune system “remember” cancer cells for ongoing protection even after treatment ends. This unique capability lowers the likelihood of cancer recurrence and offers long-term disease control.
3. Fewer Severe Complications
Severe complications occur far less with immunotherapy than with chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Chemotherapy can trigger widespread and serious side effects, including profound fatigue, severe nausea, and life-threatening infections due to immune suppression. On the other hand, immunotherapy avoids these pitfalls by enhancing rather than inhibiting the immune system.
Reasons to Get Immunotherapy at New Hope Unlimited
Our holistic support system addresses the physical aspects of care and the emotional, mental, and practical needs of patients. This multifaceted approach ensures that every individual receives the guidance, tools, and care they need throughout treatment.
1. Dedicated Care Teams
Our healthcare team consists of highly skilled oncologists, nurses, and support staff who put every patient’s well-being first. These professionals work collaboratively to deliver seamless, patient-centered care and remain available 24/7 to address concerns or unexpected issues. For example, if a patient experiences an unfamiliar symptom or side effect, they can immediately reach out for support. A nurse or physician can evaluate the situation, provide reassurance, and suggest remedies around the clock.
Dedicated care teams also help maintain continuity of care. They oversee each patient’s treatment plan, monitor progress, and communicate regularly with the patient and their family. This method fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and allows patients to focus on their recovery without unnecessary stress.
A word of advice: If a patient needs medical care at an emergency room or hospital but is not familiar with their cancer treatment, the patient should inform the medical staff that they are undergoing immunotherapy. Providing details about the specific drug(s), the oncologist overseeing treatment, and the treatment center is important. Keeping this information written on paper and stored in a wallet gives quick access during emergencies.
2. Tailored Plans for Side Effect Management
Recognizing that no two patients experience side effects in the same way, our team adjusts interventions to match the individual’s unique circumstances. For instance, patients dealing with gastrointestinal symptoms or appetite loss receive guidance from nutritionists who recommend easy-to-digest, nutrient-rich foods. These plans alleviate discomfort while supporting energy and immune function.
Tailored plans at New Hope Unlimited evolve over time, adapting to the patient’s changing needs and ensuring continuous, responsive care. Contact us to schedule a consultation. Our patients do not settle for survivorship—they thrive.
