Guide To The Symptoms Of Lymphoma

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are a part of the body that helps fight infection. Swollen lymph nodes are not always a cause for concern. In fact, these nodes can swell just because they are doing their job properly. Lymphoma patients present with swelling in the lymph nodes as the most common symptom. However, there are more common reasons that lymph nodes may swell. When an individual's lymph nodes are enlarged, they may be able to feel them below the skin.

In some cases, the lymph nodes may be visible to the naked eye. Some of the most common areas to get visibly swollen nodes are the groin, sides of the neck, and underarms. In most cases, the swelling will not be painful. Lymph nodes may swell because of an infection as well. This allows them to catch debris and bacteria before it moves to other parts of the body. If the lymph nodes work properly, they can help prevent infections from spreading to other areas.

Night Sweats

Like the other symptoms on this list, night sweats can be caused by various non-cancerous conditions, such as anxiety or a medication change. However, night sweats are a sign of lymphoma as well. Researchers are still looking into the connection between night sweats and lymphoma. A theory is that these episodes occur when individuals develop a fever. Their body begins sweating to cool itself down. Another theory is that the episodes occur because the cancer cells create certain substances in the patient's body.

With lymphoma, night sweats tend to be serious enough to soak the patient's bed and pajamas. Patients may feel as though they are drenched in liquid. Both Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients can experience these episodes. It is also possible to develop similar symptoms during the day. Individuals can implement certain routine changes to help deal with the sweating. However, most patients will need to make a plan with their doctor.