Lowered immunity

Dear Betsycar

Thank you for reaching out for information regarding chemotherapy and lowered immunity.

I can see that you are a member of our Breast Care Forum.  I hope that you are finding it helpful and supportive.

As you are aware chemotherapy can have many side effects and one of those is a weakened immune system.  It is important to reduce your risk of infection.  You are particularly at risk of getting an infection 7 to 14 days after having chemotherapy, when the level of white blood cells is at its lowest. This is called the nadir.  It can vary slightly depending on the drugs used.  Chemotherapy.com has a search facility for chemotherapy drugs and it tells when the nadir is for each drug.  It is important to remember though that each person’s body and immune system dips and recovers at its own pace and these figures are only a guide. 

Once you have finished chemotherapy treatment your body takes time to recover.  This again depends on how long you have been receiving chemotherapy for.  It may be helpful to discuss this with your consultant or breast care nurse.

After cancer treatment it can be helpful to take time to regain and rebuild your physical and emotional health.  A healthy lifestyle can help your body recover after treatment.

Please do reach out and talk to a nurse on the Macmillan Support Line if you feel it would be helpful.

Best wishes

Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.

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