Immune Therapy and Inflammation Effects

Signs and Symptoms of Inflammation

• New or worsening cough indicates inflammation of the lungs.
• Severe nausea can signify liver inflammation.
• Shortness of breath at rest may indicate lung inflammation.
• Weight gain is not a symptom of colon inflammation.

Hormonal and Glandular Effects

• Weight loss can be a side effect of hormone or gland problems.

Neurological Symptoms

• Neck stiffness may indicate inflammation of the brain.

Vision-Related Issues

• Seeing floating objects points to problems with eyes and vision.

Patient Response to Side Effects

• Patients should call their doctor immediately upon experiencing any side effects after treatment.

Hypersensitivity Reactions

• Hypersensitivity is an immune reaction to a foreign substance related to biotherapy.
• Fatigue is generally not associated with hypersensitivity reactions from biotherapy.

Infusion Reactions

• Infusion reactions can occur immediately or within days to weeks after treatment.
• Patients should notify their infusion nurse if they feel different after sitting in the infusion chair.

Biotherapy Treatment Symptoms

• Patients may experience flu-like symptoms aside from immune reactions.
• Skin itching or rash can indicate a hypersensitivity or infusion reaction.

Swelling during Treatment

• Swelling may be due to treatment affecting healthy cells.

Risks of Immune Reactions

• The risk level of immune reactions in biotherapy is higher, as they are common.

Reporting Flu-like Symptoms

• Patients should report chills, muscle aches, or a temperature greater than 100.4°F.

Skin, Hair, and Nails

• Cracking of fingertips is a common side effect of biotherapy affecting skin, hair, and nails.

Managing Diarrhea

• Patients experiencing diarrhea should inform their doctor if they have more than three watery stools in a day.
• Drinking sufficient liquids with electrolytes is recommended to alleviate diarrhea.

Peripheral Neuropathy Notifications

• Cold feelings in arms or legs should be reported as it relates to peripheral neuropathy.

Precautions for Peripheral Neuropathy

• Keeping areas well-lit can help prevent falls related to peripheral neuropathy.

Skin Care Recommendations

• Moisturizers with perfumes or preservatives should be avoided during biotherapy.

Physical Sensations Related to Peripheral Neuropathy

• Increased sensitivity to hot and cold is a symptom of peripheral neuropathy.

Biotherapy-Related Fatigue

• Increased motivation and focus is not a symptom of biotherapy-related fatigue.

Protection Against Sun Exposure

• Wearing sun protective clothing and hats is recommended during biotherapy.

Over-the-Counter Medications

• Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can be taken for muscle and joint aches unless otherwise advised.

Reporting Skin Reactions

• Redness and burning sensation on the face should be reported to a doctor as a skin reaction.

Preferred Beverages for Diarrhea

• Gatorade or Pedialyte is preferable for patients experiencing diarrhea during biotherapy.

This quiz evaluates your understanding of symptoms related to lung and liver inflammation associated with immune therapy. Test your knowledge on recognizing key signs and side effects affecting patients undergoing these treatments.