What To Expect After 100 Days Post Stem Cell Transplant – A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

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After a stem cell transplant, you’ll go through an adjustment period for about 100 days. During this time, your entire body will be going through a major adjustment. You may feel fatigued and have mood swings due to the changes in your body and its new cells. Many people also experience other symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness. These are all normal reactions to the changes in your body. However, if you notice that some of these reactions are more than normal or last longer than usual, it could be a sign something is wrong. Here’s what you can expect after 100 days post stem cell transplant:

Fatigue

One of the most common symptoms is fatigue. In stem cell transplant patients, fatigue is often due to an increased immune system response. The stem cells transplanted into your body help build new cells. This is also why you’re at a higher risk of an infection. When the immune system spots new cells as a threat to the body, it will fight it. This can include feeling sick or even a fever. With a stem cell transplant, the body is now trying to fight infection while also trying to build new cells. When the body is in a high state of stress, it’s more likely to get an infection. If you experience more frequent infections, it could mean you’re experiencing more stress in your body.

Nausea and dizziness

With a stem cell transplant, you’re taking in a foreign substance. In order to process it, your body is going to produce antibodies against the stem cells. This antibody response can include an increased risk of nausea. After the transplant, you should expect a decrease in appetite, fatigue, and dizziness. This is a good sign as it means your body is getting better. Increased nausea is a sign your body’s immune system is fighting the stem cells, and it’s releasing antibodies against the cells. This can last from a few weeks to a few months.

Increased headaches

With a stem cell transplant, your body is now trying to fight infection and build new cells. This can be a major source of stress on your brain. This can lead to headaches. For patients with chronic headaches, headaches can last for about two months after transplant. The risk of headaches increases during the first few months after transplant. However, if you experience headaches that last longer than usual or are more frequent, it could be a sign something is wrong.

Good signs After 100 Days Post Stem Cell Transplant

During the first few months after transplant, you may notice that your fatigue is milder and you have more energy. This is a sign your body is getting better. You’re also likely to notice that your appetite improves and you have less nausea. If you’re like most people, you also had to stop taking some medications after the transplant. You may now have increased appetite and be able to start taking some of your old medications again.

Bad signs After 100 Days Post Stem Cell Transplant

During the first few months after transplant, you may experience an increased risk of infections. You may also have an increased risk of blood clots. These clots may lead to a stroke. If you have a significant headache that lasts longer than usual or is accompanied by blurry vision or dizziness, it could be a sign of a blood clot.

Conclusion

After stem cell transplant, you may experience fatigue, nausea, headaches, and an increased appetite. If you experience these symptoms, it may be a sign something is wrong. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away. There are several things you can do to help reduce the symptoms, including taking rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating healthy foods.