Lymphoma is a cancer in the lymphatic system. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, or NHL, is the most common type of lymphoma. Cells in the lymphatic system become abnormal, divide and spread to other body parts. Conventional treatments for NHL include chemotherapy and radiation. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society states that there are alternative therapies that can be used to help manage symptoms and reduce side effects; however, many alternative methods have not been studied and should not be used in place of traditional medical treatment.
Nutrition, Supplements and Herbs
The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that good nutrition may help reduce lymphoma symptoms. This includes eliminating potential food allergens, eating foods rich in antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables, avoiding refined and processed foods and eating less red meat. Supplements may be added, such as a multivitamin for antioxidants, probiotics to maintain immune health, omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation and melatonin to promote sleep. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, several herbs have been studied for their anticancer and immune effects, including extracts of green tea, reishi mushroom, fermented wheat germ and milk thistle. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society states that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is being studied for possible anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects.
Massage Therapy
Cancer patients use therapeutic massage to reduce symptoms and improve coping. "Current Oncology" cites a study done of 1,290 cancer patients which found that symptom scores declined in severity by 50 percent after the first massage session. Another cited study of 100 radiation patients found that anxiety scores were reduced by 43 percent following massage. "Current Oncology" concludes that there is a brain/body connection between physical touch and perception of pain or discomfort. They list several current clinical trials that are studying therapeutic massage and cancer patients.
Support Groups
The American Cancer Society states that support groups present information, provide comfort, help reduce anxiety, teach coping skills and provide a place for people to give and receive emotional support. They claim that preliminary research has shown that cancer support groups can enhance quality of life. Their research has shown that people with cancer are better able to deal with the disease when supported by others in similar situations. These groups are especially helpful for those who do not have a strong family support system.
Music Therapy
The American Cancer Society describes music therapy as an easy, inexpensive means to help cancer patients cope with negative emotions from chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. Researchers from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center found that patients who were visited by a music therapist reported 28 percent less anxiety and 37 percent better mood than those who were not. This therapy is best delivered by trained music therapists, who are also trained counselors and can choose the most appropriate types of music for patients.
Other Alternative Therapies
Other alternative therapies to help relieve symptoms of NHL or treatment side effects include acupuncture, hypnosis, yoga, homeopathic remedies, hydrotherapy and meditation.
