This form of cancer begins in the lymphatic system. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 65,540 new cases of non-Hodgkins lymphoma developed in the United States in 2010, with 20,210 deaths resulting from this form of cancer. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma may cause a variety of symptoms depending on the location of the cancer and the speed its growth. Sometimes, the American Cancer Society reports, no symptoms emerge until the cancer grows very large.
Lymph Nodes
Cancer located in the body's lymph nodes may result in swelling, according to the American Cancer Society. This may not be noticeable to the patients, doctors or family members unless lymph nodes located near the surface of the body, such as the sides of the neck, groin, underarm areas, or above the collar bone, are affected. The National Cancer Institute indicates that this swelling is not associated with pain.
Abdomen
Collections of fluid or a tumor, the American Cancer Society reports, located in the belly may cause pain and swelling in the area. Swelling may create pressure in the abdomen, resulting in "loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting, or blocks the passage of stool, causing pain." MedlinePlus indicates that a loss of appetite may occur, along with constipation. Additionally, the National Cancer Institute states that the individual may experience "a feeling of fullness in the abdomen."
Chest
Non-Hodgkins lymphoma that affects the thymus gland or lymph nodes located in the chest may cause pressure on the trachea, resulting in shortness of breath and coughing, according to the American Cancer Society. MayoClinic.com indicates that chest pain may also result from this. Tumors located in the chest, the American Cancer Society indicates, may apply pressure to the superior vena cava, a large vein that "carries blood from the head and arms back to the heart." This causes a condition called superior vena cava syndrome, a swelling of the heads and arms, along with possible affects to the brain that require immediate treatment due to its life-threatening implications.
Brain
MedlinePlus indicates that if the cancer affects cells in the brain, headaches, concentration problems and seizures may develop. Additionally, the individual may experience changes to his personality and difficulties moving parts of the body, according to the American Cancer Society.
General Symptoms
The American Cancer Society indicates that the individual may experience soaking nights sweats not associated with temperature of the room. MedlinePlus identifies further symptoms, including alternating, intermittent fever and chills, unexplained, significant weight loss, and "severe itchiness that cannot be explained." The National Cancer Society states that the individual may feel a persistent weakness and a sense of fatigue.
