Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that hampers the functioning of the immune system. The cancer mainly affects the lymphatic system which is an integral part of the body's defense system. The lymphatic system comprises lymph vessels, lymph and lymph nodes. Lymphoma originates in the cells of the lymphatic system and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. The disease is grouped under two categories, viz. Hodgkin's Lymphoma (HL), and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL)

Lymph nodes are found in the neck, chest, underarms and abdomen. They contain white blood cells that remove bacteria and other harmful substances from the lymph. When cells in the lymph nodes begin to multiply in an uncontrolled manner, it leads to lymphoma.

Symptoms of Lymphoma

Symptoms of lymphoma vary depending on the location and the type of cancer. This disease can occur in any part of the body and hence, its symptoms are not specific. Lymphoma affecting the stomach can cause abdominal pain. Lymphoma involving the brain leads to headache and even, leg pain. If the cancerous growth is found in thymus, a gland situated in front of the heart, then it may also give rise to chest pain. The general symptoms associated with this disease (HL or NHL) are as follows:

• Painless swelling noticed in the neck, armpits or groin due to enlarged lymph nodes.
• Appetite loss
• Sweating at night
• Sudden decrease in weight
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Red patches observed on the skin
• Itching
• Breathlessness or cough (if lymphoma has spread in the lungs)
• Nausea and vomiting

As lymphoma becomes severe, the body is no longer able to fight against viral infections and becomes susceptible to frequent infections due to depressed immunity.

Diagnosis for Lymphoma

Certain tests and physical examinations can determine if the patient suffers from lymphoma. The doctor physically examines the patient for swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin and underarms. Blood tests are done to find the number of white blood cells. Chest X-rays are also helpful to detect signs of this disease. An effective test that can diagnose lymphoma is a biopsy. This test involves removing a part or an entire lymph node and sending the sample to a pathologist who checks it under a microscope for cancer cells.

Causes of Lymphoma

Unfortunately, experts are unable to ascertain the exact cause of lymphoma. However, the following points are some factors that can increase your chances of developing lymphoma:

• Infections such as HIV that damage the immune system
• Increase in age; older people are more susceptible to lymphoma
• Infections associated with the Hepatitis B virus
• Exposure to harmful chemicals such as herbicides or pesticides
• Autoimmune disease that leads to weakened immune system
• Family history of lymphoma

Treatment for Lymphoma

Treatment for lymphoma is planned taking into account the patient's age, overall health, type of lymphoma and stage of the disease. Chemotherapy (use of drugs) and radiotherapy (use of high energy X-rays) are commonly used to treat lymphoma. These treatment options can shrink tumors and destroy cancer cells. Doctors also recommend immunotherapy, which involves taking medicines that help to fight infections by strengthening the immune system.

People who are experiencing lymphoma symptoms should immediately seek medical advice and undergo the necessary treatment recommended by a doctor.