Flu-like syndrome is a collection of side effects associated with some chemotherapy drugs. Patients may feel like they have the flu while taking chemotherapy treatment. According to Caring4Cancer, the reason flu-like syndrome occurs is not completely understood; however, it is believed that the chemotherapy drugs trigger an immune and inflammatory response in the body that may be similar to the viral flu. As with the viral flu, symptoms must be treated individually and may not resolve quickly.
Pharmacological Treatment
As the name implies, flu-like syndrome involves the traditional symptoms associated with the viral flu. According to Chemocare, these symptoms may include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fatigue, cough, headache and muscle aches. These symptoms often occur suddenly when associated with cancer treatments. Chemotherapy drugs that may create flu-like syndrome include bleomycin, cytarabine, dacarbazine, asparaginase and fluorouracil. Biotherapy drugs are similar to chemotherapy and are also used to treat cancer. Many of these drugs cause flu-like syndrome including interleukin-2, monoclonal antibodies and colony-stimulating factors. The initial treatment for symptoms of flu-like syndrome is supportive drugs. Anti-pyretic drugs are fever reducers and are available over-the-counter. Some examples include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These will also help reduce muscle aches and headache. Some pain medications that are prescribed to cancer patients contain acetaminophen. It is important to be familiar with all medications prescribed to avoid overdose. Diarrhea may be treated with Imodium found over-the-counter, while nausea and vomiting may be treated with prescription medications. Patients should discuss over-the-counter medication use with a doctor prior to use.
Non-Pharmacological Treatment
While pharmacological treatment is essential for fever reduction and pain relief, there are also useful non-pharmacological treatments for flu-like syndrome. Chemocare recommends a cool bath and ice packs during times of fever. It is important to drink at least eight to 10 glasses of clear liquids daily while running a fever because dehydration can occur quickly. Fluids should not contain caffeine or alcohol. If chills are present blankets and hot packs can be helpful. Diarrhea can be managed with plenty of low-sugar fluids and a bland, soft diet. Nausea, vomiting and poor appetite can be managed with small, frequent meals. Fatty, greasy and sugary foods should be avoided during times of nausea and vomiting. With a doctor's permission, mild exercise can help fight fatigue, improve appetite and reduce stress.
Comfort Measures
Comfort measures can be valuable during times of flu-like syndrome. Spending time with family and friends, and participating in enjoyable activities can be very comforting, according to Chemocare. Stress management should be considered if necessary because, unlike the viral flu, flu-like syndrome may last for the duration of chemotherapy treatment. Relaxation exercises such as deep breathing may be helpful. It is important to note that although flu-like syndrome may be an expected side effect of chemotherapy, sometimes fever and chills can be a sign of infection. Discussing symptoms with a doctor is the best way to identify flu-like syndrome.
