Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a term used to collectively describe more than 20 cancerous diseases that affect the lymphatic system. Over 65,000 people were estimated to be diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2009, based on reports provided by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Disease symptoms associated with non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be difficult to detect but should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
This disease is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which functions as part of the body's immune system. The lymph nodes act like a filter to remove pathogens from the blood to keep the body healthy. Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma develop cancerous cells within the lymph nodes. As a result, these patients can notice that the lymph nodes within the neck, groin or underarms become unusually swollen or enlarged, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Swollen lymph nodes due to this disease are typically painless but generally persist for several months.
Fever or Night Sweats
Patients with this disease can develop a low-grade fever as a symptom. A fever is the body's natural immune response to infection and may occur in conjunction with chills or headache. Certain non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients can also experience night sweats, which may lead to difficulty sleeping. Constant or recurrent fever symptoms should be discussed with a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Fatigue
Unusual fatigue can occur as a symptom of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in certain patients. This symptom can lead to difficulty concentrating or focusing during the day and may affect a patient's productivity at work or school. Symptoms of fatigue can also occur in conjunction with body aches or stomach upset in certain patients with this disease.
Skin Irritation
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause skin-related symptoms to arise in certain patients, according to the Merck Manual, an online medical encyclopedia for health-care professionals. Thick, itchy patches of skin can develop across the body, which can cause the skin to appear dry or flaky. Certain patients can also appear unusually pale as a result of low levels of red blood cells in the body due to this disease.
Weight Loss
Patients can experience unexplained or unintended weight loss as a symptom of this disease. Weight loss may occur due to a decreased appetite and can contribute to symptoms of fatigue or weakness in certain patients.
Recurrent Infections
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma progressively destroys immune cells within the body, leaving it more susceptible to infection. As a result, patients with this disease can be at an increased risk of developing recurrent infections, such as the common cold or flu. Recurrent infections can be uncomfortable and may exacerbate other non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms, such as fatigue or fever.
