Lymphoma symptoms include painless swollen lymph nodes, recurring fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and extreme fatigue, regardless of whether it is Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
This type of cancer starts in the lymphocytes, a type of immune cell, and mainly affects the lymph nodes. When these nodes become enlarged, they are often noticed as lumps under the skin.
Main symptoms
The most common lymphoma symptoms include:
1. Swollen lymph nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are typically the earliest sign of lymphoma, and often present as painless lumps that gradually increase in size. These lumps usually feel firm, move very little under the skin, and tend to persist. They can appear anywhere in the body.
2. Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
A fever caused by lymphoma is typically persistent, lasting more than two days and returning after short breaks. Most people are unable to identify a specific cause for the fever.
3. Night sweats
In some cases, lymphoma can raise body temperature, leading to excessive sweating. Although this may occur throughout the day, it is most noticeable at night.
Read more about night sweats.
4. Unexplained weight loss
Lymphoma may cause weight loss without any clear reason, such as dieting or exercising. In some cases, weight loss can exceed 10% of body weight within six months.
5. Abdominal discomfort
When lymphoma affects the spleen, liver, or lymph nodes in the abdomen, these organs may enlarge, causing a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the belly.
6. Extreme fatigue
People with lymphoma often experience persistent tiredness or lack of energy that does not completely improve with rest. This fatigue is often linked to anemia caused by the disease.
Also recommended: Anemia Symptoms: 10 Signs of Low Hemoglobin tuasaude.com/en/anemia-symptoms7. Shortness of breath
In some cases, lymphoma can cause shortness of breath when enlarged lymph nodes in the chest press against the airways, making it difficult to breathe.
Confirming a diagnosis
A diagnosis of lymphoma is usually made by a hematologist, oncologist, or primary care provider, based on symptoms and the results of a biopsy of one of the swollen lymph nodes. The biopsy not only confirms the diagnosis but also helps determine the specific type of lymphoma.
What to do
If lymphoma is suspected, it’s important to see a hematologist or primary care provider for an evaluation. The doctor may recommend a biopsy of the lymph node to confirm the diagnosis as well as imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to assess the stage of the disease.
Treatment for lymphoma is managed by a hematologist or oncologist and depends on the type and stage of the cancer. It typically involves chemotherapy, which may be combined with radiation therapy.
Other possible treatments include immunotherapy or gene therapy, which may be recommended in certain cases.