Below, you’ll find must-know information about lymphoma.
Lymphoma is a form of cancer that originates from the lymphatic system, which consists of a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that help the body fight infections and diseases.
The uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells results in the development of lymphoma, which is the sixth most prevalent type of cancer, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer.
There are two main types of lymphoma and these are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The former is a type of lymphoma characterized by the presence of abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells in the lymphatic tissue.
The latter is a lymphoma that is more common and is characterized by the abnormal growth of white blood cells known as lymphocytes.
Some of the various types of this particular type of lymphoma are B-cell lymphoma, T-cell lymphoma, Burkitt’s lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, Mantle cell lymphoma, primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma, small lymphocytic lymphoma, and lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. (1)
Some individuals may have an increased risk of lymphoma due to exposure to radiation and certain chemicals, such as benzene and pesticides.
It is recommended for those who are exposed to these chemicals in their workplace follow occupational health guidelines to reduce their exposure as much as possible.
People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or who have been infected with the Epstein-Barr virus, are also at a higher risk of developing lymphoma. (2)
If lymphoma is not treated, the cancer cells can continue to grow and spread to other parts of the body. Untreated lymphoma can also weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and other illnesses. It can be life-threatening.
Knowing the various symptoms of lymphoma can help with the early detection of the disease. Below are various lymphoma symptoms worth knowing.
11. Chills
Chills are a physical sensation characterized by shivering and feeling cold. People with lymphoma are at increased risk for infections and chills can be a symptom of an underlying infection.
Chills can also occur because lymphoma cells release certain substances that can raise a person’s body temperature. Stress, anxiety, and panic attacks can cause chills.
10. Cough
Coughing can be a symptom of lymphoma. If lymphoma is located in the chest, it can cause coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
It can also be caused by certain respiratory problems that have manifested due to the disease. Examples of these are pneumonia, bronchitis, or asthma, Furthermore, the swelling and blockage of the airways can also cause coughing.
9. Fatigue
Lymphoma can cause a low red blood cell count, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. It can also cause inflammation in the body which can make the individual feel tired.
People with lymphoma are more susceptible to infections and infections can cause fatigue. They can also experience sleep disturbances, which can contribute to fatigue.
8. Fever
Individuals with lymphoma can experience fever that is brought about by other symptoms such as infections and inflammation, The presence of cancer cells in the body can also cause fever.
Other underlying medical conditions related to the disease can also cause fever. Lymphoma can also disrupt the normal functioning of the immune system, which can result in fevers. In some cases, the body may launch an autoimmune reaction in response to the lymphoma, which can cause a fever.
7. Night Sweats
Since people with lymphoma are more susceptible to infections, they are more likely to experience night sweats. Inflammation can also cause night sweats.
Hormonal imbalances related to lymphoma can also cause night sweats. Women with lymphoma who are approaching menopause may experience night sweats. Night sweats can be caused by stress and anxiety.
6. Weight Loss
Lymphoma can cause the individual to lose appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Inflammation in the body can also cause weight loss, as the body uses energy to fight inflammation.
Lymphoma can also affect the digestive system, causing malabsorption of nutrients, which can result in weight loss. Cachexia, or muscle wasting, can occur in people with advanced lymphoma and can result in significant weight loss. (3)
Furthermore, Weight loss can be a symptom of depression, anxiety, or stress, which are common in people with lymphoma.
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