What are the side effects of hyperthermia treatment?

The side effects of hyperthermia depend on how it is given, and most improve after treatment.

Most healthy tissue is not damaged during hyperthermia if the temperature stays under 111 degrees Fahrenheit. But different tissues can heat unevenly, causing higher temperatures in certain spots. This can lead to burns, blisters, discomfort, or pain.

Perfusion techniques, which heat blood or fluid and return it to the body, can cause swelling, blood clots, bleeding, and other damage to normal tissue in the treated area. Most of these side effects improve after treatment.

Whole-body hyperthermia commonly causes diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Less commonly, it can cause more serious side effects, including heart and blood vessel problems.

Your care team can explain which side effects are most likely with the type of hyperthermia you might receive and how they would be managed.