Side Effects of Chemotherapy for Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a term used to describe cancer of the lymphatic system, the center of operations of much of the human immune system. Lymphoma is a particularly malignant form of cancer, and according to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, only a few more than half of these patients will survive five years after diagnosis. Lymphoma is often fought through chemotherapy, an aggressive intravenous option that injects potent cancer fighting drugs into the blood.

Compromised Digestion

• Digestive disruption is a common side effect of lymphoma chemotherapy, resulting in diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and stomach cramping. This side effect is particularly associated with treatments that utilize the drug Chlorambucil.

Hair Loss

• Hair loss is another typical side effect of lymphoma chemotherapy, especially when combination therapy using cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and vincristine is used.

Bladder Inflammation

• Some individuals experience an inflammation and irritation of the lining of the bladder as a side effect.

Eye Pain

• Treatment regimens that use DHAP are known for causing dry, itchy and raw eyes.

Increased Risk of Infection

• Like all types of chemotherapy, lymphoma chemotherapy carries increased infection as a side effect, due to lowered immune function.