Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is now more commonly called Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, is a type of cancer that results from the uncontrolled growth of a type of immune system cells called lymphocytes. Men are slightly more likely to develop this type of cancer, reports Medline Plus. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can occur in many different parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus or liver. Left untreated, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can cause serious, life-threatening complications.
Spread of Cancer
People with lymphoma are at risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body and causing other types of cancer, explains the Mayo Clinic. Tumors may develop in the lungs, which can cause coughing and difficulty breathing. The digestive system may also develop tumors, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or constipation. Growth of tumors in the breasts is another possible complication. Other types of cancer may also develop, such as leukemia, which is cancer of the blood cells that often develops in bone marrow.
Neurological Effects
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has been linked to several types of neurological complications caused by the cancer spreading to the brain or the nervous system. If lymphomas spread to nerve or brain cells, the cells can be damaged or killed, which can have many deleterious effects. If the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain to the rest of the body, are damaged, patients can lose sensation in the body, or experience sensations of pain, burning or tingling. Bladder or bowel problems, and sometimes even full paralysis may also result. If lymphoma spreads to the brain, it can cause many other effects, including dizziness, loss of consciousness and difficulty eating, explains an article in Current Oncology Reports.
Effects from Chemotherapy
Many patients with lymphoma may suffer from severe complications resulting from the chemotherapy used to treat the cancer. Heart disease and vascular disease are two common complications of chemotherapy for lymphoma, which can increase the risk of heart attacks and stroke. The thyroid gland, which regulates the body's metabolism, can also be effected, leading to problems of unintended weight gain or weight loss. Nausea and vomiting are two other common side effects, as is diarrhea. In addition, people undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma may experience hair loss and depression, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
