The most common course of action will be to treat the fever and the cause of the infection at the same time, with anti-fever drugs, antibiotics, and medicine to help replenish your body's white blood cells. As with any serious side effect, the key to dealing with fever and infection is to watch for warning signs, communicate with your doctor, and take action quickly. Fevers are always an indication that something is wrong, and should be treated and reported. If they get too high, they can lead to dehydration and seizures. When one is undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, they often indicate infection, which is serious and requires medical attention.
Fevers help burn up whatever is wrong.
High fevers do not destroy the bacteria that cause infection. Watch for warning signs of infection, especially fever. Many people are now aware that nausea and sickness are common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Depending on your type of treatment, you may experience one or both together, separate, or at different times throughout your illness. Your doctor, nurse or health care team will likely tell you about these options, but it doesn't hurt to ask.