Yes, breathlessness can be a side effect of immunotherapy treatments used for leukemia. It's a known side effect worth being aware of and discussing with your care team.
Here are some reasons why breathlessness can occur during treatment:
- Low red blood cell counts (anemia): Immunotherapy can reduce healthy blood cells Show Full Answer
Yes, breathlessness can be a side effect of immunotherapy treatments used for leukemia. It's a known side effect worth being aware of and discussing with your care team.
Here are some reasons why breathlessness can occur during treatment:
- Low red blood cell counts (anemia): Immunotherapy can reduce healthy blood cells, including red blood cells, which carry oxygen. Fewer red blood cells means less oxygen getting around your body, which can leave you feeling breathless.
- Increased infection risk: Low white blood cell counts from treatment can raise the risk of lung infections, which may cause breathing difficulties.
- Fluid buildup: In some cases, certain targeted therapies can cause fluid to build up in the lungs.
- Inflammation: Some treatments can cause lung inflammation, contributing to shortness of breath. A MyLeukemiaTeam member shared, "I am taking a targeted therapy, and I am short of breath lately," while another noted, "Shortness of breath comes and goes. Always tired."
If you're experiencing breathlessness, it's really important to let your care team know right away. They can check your blood counts and figure out the best way to help manage it. Don't tough it out alone — this is exactly what they're there for! 💙
July 15
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