Lymphoma is a type of cancer characterized by a proliferation of lymphocytes, a kind of white blood cell. These cells form solid tumors in the lymph nodes and spleen. Hodgkin's disease is a type of lymphoma; other types are classified as non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Lymphoma treatment typically consists of radiation and chemotherapy. The symptoms of lymphoma can also indicate other illnesses, making early diagnosis difficult. Depending on the particular type of lymphoma, an early diagnosis can lead to early treatment and a better chance for remission or cure.
Enlarged Lymph Nodes
One or more lymph nodes may become swollen. Typically, these nodes are painless, but they may become sore as they enlarge and press against or displace other tissue. The neck is a common tumor site but the groin area or armpit is the first site noticed by some patients. A lymph node enlarged for more than two weeks should be examined by a physician, explains the Lymphoma Research Foundation.
Weight Loss
Some patients experience unexplained weight loss as a result of lymphoma. This is partly due to a loss of appetite, which often occurs as the condition progresses. Minor weight loss is often unnoticed or attributed to a dietary change instead of lymphoma.
Lack of Energy
The Lymphoma Research Foundation relates that loss of energy is another symptom of lymphoma. This may be described as excessive tiredness or physical weakness. Patients often report feeling "ill," a condition known as malaise. This symptom is often dismissed as normal exhaustion from a busy schedule.
Fever
Lymphoma can cause intermittent fevers that may be more apparent at night. While this is minor in some patients, others experience drenching night sweats and chilling. Fever is often attributed to a viral or bacterial illness instead of lymphoma.
Abdominal Fullness
Abdominal fullness is characteristic of progressive lymphoma. The abdominal area may swell until the patient feels uncomfortable. Occasionally, this swelling feels painful as organs or tissues are displaced. Abdominal fullness in the person with lymphoma is often falsely attributed to diet instead of cancer.
Itching
According to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, some patients develop itchy skin. It is typically found on the chest, back, abdomen, arms or legs. Like the other symptoms, people often consider the itching to have a less serious source.
Cough
Cough is a sign of lymphoma, explains MedlinePlus, a website maintained by the National Institutes of Health. It may be accompanied by chest discomfort or pain and difficulty breathing. Cough is frequently only attributed to lymphoma after diagnosis has been made.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing"; Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
- Lymphoma Research Foundation: Understanding Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Lymphoma Research Foundation: Understanding Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Medline Plus: Lymphoma
- Medline Plus: Hodgkin Disease
