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Can the immune system be low months after treatment, my sinuses and allergies have taken a beating

A MyLymphomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Kenner, LA
September 27
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Answer Summary

Members discussed whether the immune system can stay weakened months after cancer treatment, with many sharing that low white blood cell... Read more

Members discussed whether the immune system can stay weakened months after cancer treatment, with many sharing that low white blood cell counts and increased infections are common even years into remission. Several members shared helpful strategies including wearing masks in crowds, receiving IVIG infusions to prevent infections, and taking weekly injections to boost WBC levels. A recurring theme was the importance of self-advocacy with doctors, as many felt their concerns were dismissed, and encouraging each other to push for answers and proper care.

MyLymphomaTeam

Yes, absolutely — the immune system can remain weakened for months, and sometimes even longer, after lymphoma treatment ends. This is very common and something many people deal with after finishing treatment.

Treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplants can all take a significant toll on immune Show Full Answer

Yes, absolutely — the immune system can remain weakened for months, and sometimes even longer, after lymphoma treatment ends. This is very common and something many people deal with after finishing treatment.

Treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplants can all take a significant toll on immune function. Since lymphoma itself starts in the very cells that help fight infections (lymphocytes), the immune system can be hit from two directions — the disease and the treatment. Some things worth knowing about post-treatment immune recovery:

- Chemotherapy kills fast-growing cells, including healthy immune cells, which can leave the body vulnerable long after treatment ends
- Monoclonal antibody treatments like rituximab reduce B cells, which are key to producing antibodies — recovery can take 6+ months
- Stem cell transplants require a full immune system rebuild, which takes considerable time
- A weakened immune system makes it easier to pick up infections and can make existing sensitivities, like sinus issues, feel much worse

It's really worth mentioning the sinus and allergy symptoms to the care team. They can check immune function through blood tests and may suggest ways to help protect and support recovery.

September 27
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

Remember we have had a strong amount of chemicals in our bodies, and we all are different, although I have been in remission for 3 years I'm still not 100% although I feel great but my levels on almost everything are a little low, it's a process, stay positive 🙏

September 27
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

What is your WBC Mary?
I have just finished the 6th cycle of Rituximab targeted therapy ' my WBC is a little low at 4.31 - Oncologist is not concerned at that level

September 27
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

My white blood cell counts have remained low after finishing treatment one year ago. I do wear a mask in crowds still.

September 27
A MyLymphomaTeam Member

Two years in remission and started to pick up every infection going so oncologist started me on IVIG every four weeks. Had five infusions so far and not a single infection since. PTL

October 13

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