Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, a network of tissues and organs including lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow. This system helps the body fight infection. Recognizing early signs is important, and this article discusses common ways individuals discover potential lymphoma symptoms.
Common Initial Symptoms
Swollen lymph nodes are often the first sign of potential lymphoma, commonly noticeable in the neck, armpit, or groin. These nodes typically feel firm and are generally painless, making them easy to overlook. Their lack of discomfort can delay seeking medical attention.
Beyond localized swellings, persistent tiredness, beyond what is normal, can be an early indicator. This fatigue often does not improve with rest and significantly impacts daily activities. Unexplained weight loss, meaning a loss of 10% or more of body weight over six months without dieting or increased exercise, is another common symptom that prompts concern.
Drenching night sweats, severe enough to soak clothing and bedding even in a cool room, frequently occur. These sweats are distinct from typical sweating due to heat and often lead to discomfort and disrupted sleep. Persistent itching without a visible rash is another less common symptom, which can be bothersome.
Symptoms That Can Be Missed
Some lymphoma symptoms can be subtle or easily attributed to other common ailments, leading to initial oversight. An unexplained fever that persists or recurs over several days or weeks, without clear infection, can be a sign. This fever might be low-grade, around 100.4°F (38°C), and often occurs in the evenings.
When lymphoma affects lymph nodes within the chest, a persistent cough or shortness of breath might develop, which could be mistaken for a respiratory infection or asthma. Similarly, if lymph nodes in the abdomen or the spleen become enlarged, individuals might experience abdominal pain or a feeling of fullness. This abdominal discomfort can sometimes be dismissed as digestive issues.
A loss of appetite, leading to reduced food intake, can accompany other symptoms and contribute to unexplained weight loss. Another less common symptom is an increased sensitivity to alcohol, where even small amounts can cause pain in the affected lymph nodes. These varied presentations highlight the importance of awareness of a broader range of symptoms.
Knowing When to See a Doctor
Knowing when to seek medical attention is important. While isolated occurrences of a single symptom might not indicate lymphoma, the persistence of these symptoms over several weeks warrants medical evaluation. For example, a swollen lymph node that does not decrease in size within a few weeks should be examined.
The worsening of symptoms over time, such as increasing fatigue or more frequent night sweats, is another reason to consult a healthcare professional. Experiencing a combination of several symptoms, even if each seems minor, can also raise concern. For instance, unexplained weight loss combined with persistent fatigue and swollen nodes suggests a need for medical review. Avoid self-diagnosing; rely on medical expertise for an accurate assessment.
Confirming a Lymphoma Diagnosis
Lymphoma diagnosis typically begins with a doctor’s visit, including a physical examination for swollen lymph nodes, an enlarged spleen or liver, and a review of medical history. Blood tests assess general health and abnormalities, though they alone cannot definitively diagnose lymphoma. If lymphoma is suspected, imaging scans like CT or PET are often used to locate affected areas and assess disease extent.
The definitive diagnostic tool for lymphoma is a biopsy, involving the removal of a small tissue sample, typically from an enlarged lymph node. A pathologist examines this sample under a microscope to identify lymphoma cells and determine the specific type. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may also be performed to check if lymphoma has spread to the bone marrow. Receiving a diagnosis can be an emotionally challenging experience, as it often brings feelings of shock, fear, anxiety, and a sense of loss of control.