Of the unwanted effects immunotherapy could cause, pores and skin reactions are probably the most frequent. They happen as a result of the activated immune system mistakenly assaults wholesome pores and skin cells.
“These reactions can embrace rashes, itchiness, redness, dryness, and in some circumstances, blisters or sores,” Alter notes. The rash typically seems on the face and higher physique, and a few individuals describe it as feeling much like a sunburn.
Pores and skin signs can start inside weeks or months of beginning immunotherapy and will final even after remedy ends.
Current pores and skin situations like eczema or psoriasis might also flare up throughout immunotherapy, says Alter.
Tricks to Handle Pores and skin Reactions
Alter recommends the next suggestions for managing pores and skin reactions.
- Use light, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers.
- Bathe with lukewarm water, as a substitute of sizzling, and pat your pores and skin dry after.
- Apply a thick, unscented cream or lotion typically, particularly after showering.
- Keep away from direct daylight, put on protecting clothes, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater every day.
- Apply cool, moist compresses to itchy areas for aid.
- Speak to your care staff about topical steroid lotions or oral drugs for extra cussed or extreme reactions.
