What Are the Side Effects of Immunotherapy for Mesothelioma?
Immunotherapy works by activating your immune system to attack cancer cells. In some cases, this treatment can also cause an inflammatory response in your body, leading to uncomfortable side effects.
Common side effects of mesothelioma immunotherapy include:
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Mouth soreness or irritation
- Skin rash
In one clinical study, 19% of patients stopped immunotherapy due to side effects. Immunotherapy side effects can be challenging, but they may also be a positive sign of progress.
“Even though these side effects are frustrating, there is a hidden benefit: It shows that your immune system was successfully activated by the immunotherapy.”
– Dr. David Faleck, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
If you or a loved one is undergoing treatment, get the support and information you need in our Free Mesothelioma Guide.
7 Tips for Managing Mesothelioma Immunotherapy Side Effects
Each patient being treated with immunotherapy may have different experiences, but there are some consistent side effects. Below is a list of tips to ease the common side effects of immunotherapy for mesothelioma.
1. Create a Symptom Diary
On the day you start treatment, create a symptom diary and record your experience during and after the session.
Keep track of:
- When you had treatment
- How you felt during and after
- How severe the side effects were
- Timing and frequency of side effects
- Whether the effects faded or worsened
“A journal or diary will help you, your loved ones, and your doctor manage your symptoms more effectively.”
2. Use Steroid Creams for Rashes & Itching
If you’re experiencing skin rashes or itching, ask your doctor about using over-the-counter steroid creams and antihistamines.
Using unscented lotion after a warm bath can also help relieve dryness or chapped skin.
3. Consume Something Cold
Mouth sores and dryness can be unpleasant side effects of immunotherapy for mesothelioma. Enjoying an ice pop before eating or drinking can help boost your calorie intake and provide a soothing effect for pain relief.
Eating cold, odorless foods and drinking ice water can also help calm an upset stomach if you’re experiencing nausea.
4. Try the BRAT Diet
Diarrhea is one of the most reported immunotherapy side effects — but the BRAT diet can help.
The BRAT diet consists of:
- Bananas
- Rice
- Applesauce
- Toast
These foods are high in fiber and can help solidify your stool and lessen the frequency of your bowel movements.
Avoid sugar, fatty foods, spicy foods, dairy, alcohol, and caffeine since they can trigger diarrhea.
5. Regulate Your Temperature
Because immunotherapy can cause flu-like symptoms, many patients experience chills or shivers after treatment. Your temperature may spike as your body tries to regulate itself.
“Dress in layers and bring a blanket to your infusion sessions. Some patients may experience hot flashes or chills due to their immune response.”
If you start experiencing fever symptoms later on, put a cool washcloth on your face and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Download our Free Immunotherapy Guide for more helpful treatment advice on what to expect.
6. Seek Alternative Treatments
Bodywork, massage, acupuncture, reiki, and other alternative treatments can help relieve physical discomfort and body aches.
While these options can’t treat your cancer, they can help you feel more relaxed, promote healing, and enhance your overall well-being.
7. Get Enough Sleep & Exercise
Fighting cancer can make you feel tired, but try to resist staying in bed too long. Staying energized can help invigorate your body and mind.
In general, it can help to:
- Nap for 1 hour or less during the day
- Stay hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water
- Take short walks if you’re able
“When patients understand ways to improve their quality of life, they feel more in control of their cancer journey.”
Get Help Finding Support for Mesothelioma
At Mesothelioma Hope, we have decades of experience supporting patients, their families, and caregivers through treatment.
Our Patient Advocates can help you:
- Understand your diagnosis and treatment options
- Find palliative care to relieve your symptoms
- Learn more about financial compensation
- Connect with support groups or peer mentors who’ve been in your shoes
“My goal is to support people facing mesothelioma — patients themselves along with their family members, friends, and anyone else who needs information and help to get through this diagnosis.”
– Lauren Ryder, Mesothelioma Hope Patient Advocate
Call us at (866) 608-8933 now for personalized guidance and support.
