Hi,
My husband finished his 6 week chemoradiotheraphy at the end of September. Can you tell me when his immune system is back to normal? How long is he considered vulnerable to infections?
Thank you
Claire
Hi,
My husband finished his 6 week chemoradiotheraphy at the end of September. Can you tell me when his immune system is back to normal? How long is he considered vulnerable to infections?
Thank you
Claire
Dear Claire,
Thank you for your email.
There isn't a specific answer, as every patient is different in how they recover after treatment. His hospital team/hospital specialist nurse should be able to give him a steer on this.
Once his white cell count is at a normal level, then he is at a much reduced risk of getting infections. Overall, it can take some months, often around six months to recover from cancer treatments. Taking daily vitamin D supplements can help with immunity.
There is an overview of the immune system here,
I hope that this is useful,
Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
Yours sincerely,
Vanda
Thank you Vanda, that is helpful.
Claire xx