How to Recognize Lymphoma
Early detection is important for lymphoma. In this article we'll review common signs of lymphoma you should be aware of.
1. Swollen Lymph Nodes
One of the most recognizable symptoms of lymphoma is the swelling of lymph nodes, especially in the neck, underarms or groin. These swollen nodes may feel like small, painless lumps under the skin. Unlike swollen nodes caused by infection, those linked to lymphoma typically don’t go away on their own and may increase in size over time. Swollen lymph nodes are often painless but may become tender as they grow.
2. Persistent Fatigue
Fatigue is a common sign of many conditions, including lymphoma. This type of fatigue is different from regular tiredness—it doesn’t improve with rest and can interfere with daily activities. The cause of this fatigue in lymphoma patients is often the body’s immune system working hard to fight the cancer, or due to anemia caused by cancer in the bone marrow. Persistent fatigue is a key indicator that, when combined with other symptoms, may warrant further investigation.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
Sudden and unintentional weight loss can be a sign of lymphoma. The body may start to use more energy fighting the cancer cells, leading to weight loss even when there is no change in diet or physical activity. Many people with lymphoma report losing over 10% of their body weight within six months without trying to do so. If you experience unexplained weight loss along with other symptoms, it may be a sign to consult with a healthcare provider.
4. Night Sweats
Night sweats, particularly those that soak through clothes and sheets, can be a significant indicator of lymphoma. This symptom is particularly common in people with Hodgkin lymphoma but can also occur in non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Night sweats may be triggered by the body’s response to the cancer, leading to intense sweating episodes that can disrupt sleep. This is different from regular sweating and tends to be intense and recurrent, often occurring even in cool environments.
5. Fever Without Infection
Fevers are generally a response to infection, but lymphoma can cause persistent fevers without any obvious cause. These low-grade fevers are often intermittent and may come and go over time. Lymphoma-related fevers are usually mild, ranging from 99–101°F, but can be persistent and may increase in frequency as the disease progresses. If fevers persist for an extended period and are coupled with other symptoms, it’s advisable to seek medical advice.
6. Itchy Skin
Many people with lymphoma experience itchy skin, a condition known as pruritus. This itching can range from mild to severe and may become worse at night. It is believed that the itching may be due to cytokines—proteins released by the immune system in response to lymphoma cells. Itching may occur over the entire body or may be localized to specific areas, such as the legs, chest or feet. Persistent, unexplained itching, especially when coupled with other symptoms, can be a sign to consult a healthcare provider.
7. Abdominal Pain or Swelling
Lymphoma can affect lymph nodes or other organs in the abdomen, such as the spleen or liver. This can lead to abdominal swelling or a feeling of fullness even after eating only a small amount of food. Pain in the upper left part of the abdomen due to spleen enlargement is also common in some cases. This abdominal discomfort or bloating can sometimes be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, but when paired with other lymphoma symptoms, it’s worth investigating further.
Lymphoma Treatment Options
Here are some common treatment options for lymphoma:
- Chemotherapy: Uses strong drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
- Radiation therapy: Targets and destroys cancer cells using high-energy rays.
- Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific proteins or genes in cancer cells, like monoclonal antibodies or kinase inhibitors.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the immune system to fight cancer, such as CAR-T cell therapy or checkpoint inhibitors.
- Stem cell transplant: Replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy cells after intensive treatments like chemotherapy.
- Watchful waiting: Monitors slow-growing lymphomas without immediate treatment, common for early-stage cases.
- Surgery: Rarely used, but may remove a localized tumor in certain cases.
- Clinical trials: Offers access to new and experimental treatments for lymphoma.