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Signs & Symptoms of Cancer in the Lymph Node

The lymph node is an organ that normally traps contaminants in the human body and are themselves indicators of the presence of cancer elsewhere in the human body. Yet there are several types of cancers that affect the lymph nodes directly, all involving the primary symptom of swelling at one of the sites of nodes. Many tumors that affect the lymph nodes are benign or not yet cancerous, so a doctor's care is necessary to determine the most beneficial course of treatment.

  1. Inexplicable Weight Loss

    • Losing more than 10 percent of your original weight without apparent cause is characteristic of lymph node cancer, as are fever, fatigue and night sweats.

    Swollen Lymph Nodes

    • In Hodgkin's lymphoma, nodes in the neck and shoulders are often large and rubbery, though the swelling is painless for the patient. Small nodules that can be felt just under the skin are a common sign of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, as the cancer inflames these lymph nodes and makes them more noticeable.

    Back Pain

    • General back pain that has no apparent cause and that the patient cannot pinpoint is reported in some people with Hodgkin's lymphoma.

    Itchy Skin and Redness

    • Broken blood vessels under the skin, itchy areas and fragile skin that breaks and bleeds easily is a common symptom of lymphoma because the white blood level counts are significantly reduced and cannot repair the skin properly.

    Abdominal Pain or Nausea

    • Cancer of the lymph nodes in the abdominal region can cause intestinal swelling or fluid retention, making the passing of bowel movements difficult and painful. The increased size of the other digestive system organs can also reduce the patient's appetite.

    Swollen Chest or Trouble Breathing

    • If the lymph nodes inside the chest are impacted by cancer, the subsequent inflammation can restrict the movement of blood to the heart. Common signs of this condition include swelling in the chest, arms or head, difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness. This development is serious and should be treated in an emergency room immediately.

    Headaches, Reduced Cognitive Ability or Weakness in Certain Body Parts

    • If cancer affects the lymph nodes in the brain, it can impact both cognitive function and the ability to control the rest of the body. Headaches, difficulty focusing, personality changes, seizures and weakness in certain areas of the body are all symptoms of brain lymphoma.

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