What are the side effects of hyperthermia treatment?
The side effects of hyperthermia depend on how it is given. Most of them improve after treatment.
Most healthy tissue is not harmed if the temperature stays under 111 degrees Fahrenheit. But tissues heat unevenly. Some spots can get hotter than others. That can lead to burns, blisters, discomfort, or pain.
Perfusion techniques heat blood or fluid and return it to the body. They can cause swelling, blood clots, and bleeding. They can also damage normal tissue in the treated area. Most of these side effects improve after treatment.
Whole-body hyperthermia often causes diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Less often, it causes more serious side effects. These can include heart and blood vessel problems.
Your care team can explain which side effects are most likely with your type of hyperthermia. They can also explain how those effects would be managed.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Hyperthermia to Treat Cancer
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