Lymphoma is a form of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a vital part of the immune system. It arises when either of the two types of lymphocytes (T cells or B cells) begin to multiply uncontrollably. There are two main categories of lymphoma: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin. Identifying the type is crucial for devising a suitable treatment plan. The following are a few common warning signs of the condition.

Swollen lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are a critical part of the lymphatic system, located in various body parts, including the neck, groin, armpit, and spleen. They filter lymph fluid to eliminate harmful substances and fight off infections. Lymphoma leads to an abnormal multiplication of lymphocytes, which, in turn, causes one’s lymph nodes to enlarge and swell. As a result, one may notice swelling in the spleen, neck, armpits, or groin, which does not go away. The swelling is usually painless but can be painful in some cases.

Itchy skin
Persistent and unusual skin itching can also be a warning sign of lymphoma. One may experience itching all over the body or near affected lymph nodes. Persistent and unexplained itching in the hands, legs, or feet could point toward lymphoma. The itchiness results from the release of certain chemicals called cytokines. This symptom can sometimes progress to a burning sensation and even cause a rash. Persistent itchiness can also be a sign of skin lymphoma.

Unexplained fever
Unexplained fever can be an early sign of several health disorders, including lymphoma. Individuals with this condition develop a fever because of the cancerous cells in their bodies. These cells affect the lymphatic system, triggering an immune response that increases body temperature. Monitoring recurrent and unexplained fevers and getting them examined by an expert is crucial in detecting underlying health issues like lymphoma.

Night sweats
Night sweats could either result from the fever caused by lymphoma or the body’s response to the chemicals released by the condition. Those experiencing frequent night sweats should consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation and not ignore this symptom at any cost. The expert can determine the cause of the sweats and recommend a suitable solution.

Chronic fatigue
Persistent fatigue could be a symptom of lymphoma. The condition can boost the production of lymphocytes, which can interfere with the production of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Anemia causes one to feel constantly tired as their body struggles with decreased oxygen-carrying capacity.

Easy bruising and bleeding
Lymphoma prevents the body from making enough platelets—blood cells essential for clotting. As a result, a person’s platelet levels drop, which leads to easy bruising and bleeding. One may experience bruising and bleeding in various forms, including nosebleeds, increased menstrual bleeding, and prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries.

Loss of appetite
If lymphoma affects the lymph nodes in the abdomen or the lymphatic tissue in the liver or spleen, it can result in a loss of appetite. One may experience a feeling of fullness even after eating a small portion of food. If lymphoma affects the spleen, it might also cause bloating, another reason for appetite loss. Bloating can also occur if lymphoma affects the liver, leading to fluid buildup in the abdomen. If one notices persistent bloating, they should talk to a healthcare professional to understand and address the underlying causes as soon as possible.

Digestive and abdominal discomfort
When lymphoma affects the stomach, it can cause the organ’s lining to swell, causing abdominal pain or nausea. If the condition affects the bowels, one might experience diarrhea or constipation. Individuals should notice these symptoms early and visit a healthcare expert for an evaluation. Doing so helps in getting the right diagnosis and treatment for managing lymphoma in the digestive system organs and improving one’s quality of life in the long term.

Coughing and shortness of breath
If lymphoma affects the thymus gland (located in the chest), it can cause respiratory issues. Swelling of the thymus may lead to coughing, chest pain, or pressure on the chest. In this case, one may also experience symptoms like persistent coughing, shortness of breath, loud breathing, and pain or pressure behind the breastbone. However, the severity of these symptoms may vary from person to person.

It is important to note that the signs mentioned here are commonly experienced in lymphoma cases. However, their presence does not always mean one has the disease. Drawing conclusions based solely on these indicators can be misleading. These signs only serve as cues for one’s vigilance. If someone notices these signs, they must consult a doctor promptly. A thorough examination by a health professional can help accurately diagnose or rule out lymphoma, ensuring the best course of action for one’s health.

If someone has a family history of cancer, they must communicate this information to the doctor during consultations. Open communication with healthcare providers is essential for effective examination and treatment. It is also advisable for patients to ask doctors to explain the details of the results thoroughly and not hesitate to express any doubts or concerns they may have. Effective communication ensures professionals have comprehensive information for accurate assessments.