|  | Cancer | Lymphoma

Symptoms of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system (or the lymph node) that affects the overall structure of a person's white blood cells. These blood cells normally produce antibodies to fight infection or they themselves fight off infection directly. When the makeup of a white blood cell is corrupted by the cancer, this is no longer the case. Instead, these abnormal cells divide and grow in number, weakening a person's immune system and making them more susceptible to other conditions and illnesses. Besides the symptoms common to almost all forms of cancer, like fatigue and weight loss, if a person were to be diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, there are a number of other symptoms that will manifest as the cancer progresses.

  1. Swelling

    • The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involves some level of swelling within the lymph nodes. Normally, this swelling will occur within the glands located in the neck, underarm or groin, but can affect any area of the body where lymph nodes can be found. The reason the glands begin to swell is largely due to the constant division that occurs in the abnormal white blood cells. As the cancerous cells divide, they basically engorge the lymph node, causing it to become inflamed.

    Fever

    • For many people, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma also causes them to suffer from periodic fevers. These fevers will range in severity from mild (99 degrees F) to high (over 104 degrees F), and may be accompanied by intermittent night sweats.

    Pain

    • For others, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma triggers some pain or discomfort within either the chest or abdomen. This is largely due to any lymphoid tissues in these areas that are affected by the cancer. What happens is the tissue becomes inflamed, causing fluids to collect. As more and more fluids pool within these regions, pressure is placed within the chest or abdomen, prompting pain and discomfort.

    Respiratory Disturbance

    • There is also the potential for some respiratory disturbances as a result of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Much like the symptom of pain, this is attributable to the collection of fluids caused by affected lymphoid tissues in the chest. As fluid is retained in this region of the body, it can begin to place pressure on the lungs, reducing their capacity for air and causing shortness of breath.

    Digestive Disturbance

    • As fluid collects within the abdomen, it is also possible for pressure to be placed on the intestines, making digestive disturbances another potential symptom of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In this situation, the intestines slowly begin to narrow as more and more fluid collects. This can prompt constipation, nausea and sometimes vomiting.

    Skin Discomfort

    • When the tissues of the skin are affected by the lymphoma, many people will begin to manifest a certain amount of skin discomfort. This will usually take the form of highly itchy and sensitive skin. However, some people will also notice a discoloration to patches along the skin, appearing reddish to purplish in hue.

Lymphoma - Related Articles