Symptoms of Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, including the lymph vessels, lymph nodes, tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus gland. There are two main types of lymphoma: non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common, affecting nearly 90% of patients, while Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for the remaining 10%.
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, including the lymph vessels, lymph nodes, tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus gland. There are two main types of lymphoma: non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common, affecting nearly 90% of patients, while Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for the remaining 10%.
The symptoms of lymphoma vary depending on the type of disease you have. Although the symptoms of both forms are similar, there are some differences between the two.
Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Swelling of lymph nodes in the armpits, neck, or groin – these are usually painless
- Bloating or pain in the abdomen
- Cough or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
Symptoms of Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Swelling of lymph nodes in the groin, armpits, or neck – these are also usually painless
- Excessive tiredness
- Fever and chills
- Night sweats
- Weight loss of up to 10% or more of your body weight
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Allergy to the effects of alcohol, including painful lymph nodes after drinking
Diagnosis of Lymphoma
If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor. To confirm a diagnosis of lymphoma, several tests may be done. This includes:
- Physical exam: A simple physical exam will be done so that your doctor can determine the size of your lymph nodes and the size and condition of your spleen and liver.
- Blood and urine tests: These tests help rule out other infections or illnesses that may be causing your symptoms.
- Imaging: X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) are all imaging tests your doctor may recommend to look for tumors in your body.
- Lymph node biopsy: This requires a procedure where a sample of your lymph nodes is taken and then examined and analyzed. This will determine if you have lymphoma, what type of lymphoma it is, and how treatment should proceed.
- Bone marrow biopsy: A bone marrow biopsy involves inserting a needle into your pelvic bone to take a sample of bone marrow. This will also be tested and analyzed in a lab to determine if the cancer has spread to your bone marrow. The biopsy can also help determine what stage of lymphoma you have.