Symptoms and Types of Lymphoma

Symptoms and Types of Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the body’s lymphatic system. This system fights off the germs that enter our body. The lymphatic system comprises the lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen, and thymus gland. This cancer can spread and affect other organs in the body as well. Let’s look at the symptoms and types of lymphoma to stay better informed.

Symptoms 

  • Tiredness
    As the body is fighting off cancerous cells, it is also taking up a lot of your energy. You may feel exhausted for no apparent reason or after doing a small task. This kind of tiredness is not the normal fatigue you feel after a long day. It doesn’t go away after resting for a full night, either. Do note that it is a very common symptom of many underlying illnesses, and lymphoma can be one of them.
  • Inflamed lymph nodes
    This is one of the most common symptoms of lymphoma. If you notice a swollen lump in your neck, underarm or groin area, they may actually be swollen lymph nodes. They are usually painless, but if they persist, get them checked by a doctor. You should remember that not all kinds of lymphomas cause lumps.
  • Weight loss
    This is not because you are actively trying to lose weight. It is actually quite the opposite. When you experience weight loss without even trying for the same, it may be a sign of lymphoma, among other things.

Types 

  • Hodgkin’s lymphoma
    This type of lymphoma affects the age group between 20 and 40. In Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the lymphatic system doesn’t grow normally and may spread to other organs as well. With advancements in medicine, Hodgkin’s lymphoma can be fully cured, and every passing day doctors are giving a more positive prognosis for people suffering from this cancer.
  • Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
    This type of cancer forms tumors from a type of white blood cell and attacks the lymphatic system. There have been many advances in medicine to improve the health of people suffering from this disease.
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
    CLL is a type of cancer that attacks the blood and bone marrow. It is slow-moving cancer that affects the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. This cancer affects mostly older people, and there are medicines and treatments to control this disease.
  • Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma
    CTCL is a rare type of cancer that develops in the white blood cells. These cells help fight the germs in the body. In this kind of cancer, however, the white blood cells develop abnormalities, and instead of attacking germs, they target the skin.

Now that we are aware of the different symptoms and types of lymphoma, we can be more mindful when any of these persist for a long time. One should consult a doctor immediately for timely diagnosis and treatment.