Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system of the body. The lymphatic system produces the cells that fuel the human body's immune system to help fight infections. According to LymphomaInfo.net, because these immune system cells travel through the lymphatic and circulatory systems, lymphoma is considered to be a blood-related cancer. The two main forms of this cancer are called Hodgkin's disease, also called Hodgkin's lymphoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Each category of lymphoma affects different types of lymphocytes in the white blood cells and require different treatments. Both categories have different symptoms as well as some shared symptoms.
Swelling
Both non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma are usually characterized by swelling in the lymph nodes. While there are many lymph nodes throughout the human body, this swelling typically occurs in the groin, underarm area and neck. Pain does not normally accompany the swelling in either disease when it occurs in these bodily regions, the Mayo Clinic reports.
In non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, swelling also may occur in the abdomen area. Pain in the abdomen at or near the swelling site may occur, but it is not always present.
Fever and Night Sweats
Both forms of lymphoma may induce fevers, meaning the body temperature rises higher than the standard of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). The presence of fever is an indicator of infection within the human body. When fever passes the 101 degree Fahrenheit (33 degree Celsius) mark and does not return to normal with such over-the-counter medications as acetaminophen or naproxen sodium, the patient should consult a physician as soon as possible. Both lymphomas can also induce night sweats, a condition that produces excessive perspiration that can drench bedclothes and bedding.
With Hodgkin's lymphoma, high fevers may be accompanied by and alternate with chills, especially at night.
Weight Loss
Both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas typically cause noticeable weight loss that is unintended and unexplained. In the case of Hodgkin's disease, the weight loss may be significant, such as 10 percent of the person's normal body weight, and sometimes more. Weight loss may occur when the related symptom of loss of appetite is present, but in many instances appetite is good and weight still decreases.
Fatigue
With both Hodgin's and non-Hodgin's lymphomas, a person may feel fatigued or generally weak throughout the body. For example, plenty of sleep does not refresh the person and energy is generally low. Again, as with other symptoms, fatigue in itself does not signify a diagnosis of lymphoma, but any pattern of symptoms that persists over time should be discussed with a physician.
Chest Pain and Breathing Problems
Either form of lymphoma can induce pain in the chest. This pain is usually due to lymphoma's affect on the thymus. The sufferer may confuse this pain with angina or heart-related pain; in either case, immediate medical attention is necessary. Either type of lymphoma may cause persistent coughing and/or difficulty breathing.
Alcohol Consumption and Pain
Sufferers of Hodgkin's lymphoma may experience an increased sensitivity to consumption of alcoholic beverages. This means inebriation can occur more quickly than normal. Alcohol also may trigger pain in the weakened lymph system following ingestion. Patients may complain about neck pain or pain in other lymph node sites after drinking alcohol. Some may believe these pains are simple muscle aches or pulled muscles. If the lymph node pain pattern persists, a checkup with a physician is essential.
Itchiness and Burning
With Hodgkin's disease, itchiness is a common symptom but varies widely in its presentation. Itchiness, or pruritus, may occur in a specific area and remain contained there in some sufferers. In others, the itching is widespread and may be the body's inappropriate release of histamines. Some people experience burning sensations rather than itchiness; a burning feeling is usually localized rather than systemic. In addition, dry, scaly patches may arise and cause itching with some strains of lymphoma.
