Infection

Infection is a result of bacteria or microorganisms invading and multiplying in the body. White blood cells are responsible for fighting off infection. Chemotherapy may result in a lower white blood cell count, leaving you more prone to infection.

What Are the Signs of Infection?

Some possible signs of infection include:

• Fever
• Sweating
• Body chills, aches, or headache
• Coughing with mucus
• Sore or swollen mouth; white patches, sores, or gum color changes
• Painful urination
• Open sores or cuts with pus
• Skin redness or swelling

What Can I Do to Prevent Infection?

• Your doctor will help you keep track of your blood counts. You might take medication to correct them
• Tell your doctor or caregiver about any changes in your catheter (if you have one), such as drainage, soreness, or swelling
• Keep yourself and your hands clean. Wash your hands before and after the bathroom
• Use hand sanitizers when you cannot wash
• Wash hands after touching pets, and do not touch litter boxes or handle waste
• Clean cuts immediately and every day with soap and water until a scab forms
• Avoid crowds or large gatherings
• Don’t get near anyone who is sick
• Don’t eat undercooked or raw foods. Wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly; check with your doctor to ensure that raw fruits and vegetables are permitted in your diet
• Avoid cutting or ripping cuticles
• Keep good oral health, and use a mouth rinse without alcohol
• Avoid touching or squeezing pimples
• Consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine or flu shot

How Is Infection Treated?

Your doctor will perform a blood test to get a count of your white blood cells. If infection is present, you may receive an antibiotic. When your white blood cell count is low, your doctor may delay your chemotherapy until your body can produce more white blood cells. The doctor may also give you an injection of a drug to stimulate the growth of white blood cells. These drugs are referred to as growth factor medications, also known as G-CSF or GM-CSF.

This information does not replace advice from your doctor. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any health or treatment questions that you may have.