3 Things To Know About Immunotherapy
A cancer diagnosis can be very frightening. Many people believe that a cancer diagnosis is akin to a death sentence, but this isn't always the case.
Researchers have made great strides in developing treatment protocols to help cancer patients. Immunotherapy is one treatment that is being used by more doctors to help treat cancer.
The more you know about immunotherapy, the better prepared you will be to embrace this treatment protocol as you battle your own cancer diagnosis in the future.
1. Immunotherapy Targets the Immune System
The body's immune system can be very efficient when it comes to attacking and destroying disease. Unfortunately, the immune system can become compromised during cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
Immunotherapy was developed as a way to help bolster the immune system.
There are two primary ways in which immunotherapy can help. First, it can strengthen the immune system so that a patient's own body can fight off cancer more effectively. Second, immunotherapy can help make the immune system smarter so that the body can better recognize and attack cancer cells.
2. Immunotherapy Treats Many Cancers
One of the greatest advantages of immunotherapy is the fact that it can be used to treat a wide range of cancers.
Immunotherapy treatments can help the body target and attack cancer cells almost anywhere in the body. Tumors have often shrunk in patients who received immunotherapy. Doctors will also use immunotherapy as a preventative tactic to eliminate stray cancer cells after a patient has undergone surgery to remove a tumor.
Your own doctor will be able to help you understand how immunotherapy can assist you in battling your unique cancer diagnosis.
3. Immunotherapy Is Gentler Than Other Cancer Treatments
The treatment protocols that are used to combat cancer can trigger many uncomfortable side effects. Both chemotherapy and radiation treatments have been known to cause severe nausea, hair loss, diarrhea, and fatigue. It can be nearly impossible for patients to maintain a healthy diet or exercise each day when dealing with these side effects.
Immunotherapy is a much gentler type of treatment. The side effects associated with immunotherapy are minimal. Side effects can include a slight fever, the development of a rash, or dull headaches.
While you will still experience some discomfort as a result of the side effects that come with immunotherapy, these side effects are typically much milder than those associated with chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Contact your healthcare provider for more information about immunotherapy.
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