Lymphoma symptoms can be vague, but they are often similar to other common illnesses and side effects from some medications. There are around 80 different lymphoma subtypes and the symptoms may be different for each one.
Swollen lymph nodes (glands) are a common early symptom of many types of lymphoma, including Hodgkin lymphoma and some high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphomas. These are painless swellings in your neck, collarbone, armpit, or groin. Sometimes the lymph nodes swell due to infection, but sometimes they just keep getting bigger.
These lumps are called reactive nodes or hyperplastic nodes and usually don’t hurt unless they press on an organ. If they get painful, it could be because the swollen lymph nodes are pushing on your airways and lungs or collecting fluid around your lungs. They may also cause pain in your chest, coughing, breathlessness or pain in your stomach area.
Itching and fever
Itching is a common lymphoma symptom that may also affect your skin. It can make your skin red and swollen. This may be worse at night and on your arms or legs, or it can affect your whole body.
The itching can be uncomfortable, especially when it is warm or humid. You might want to try a topical cream or ointment or an over-the-counter antihistamine to reduce itching. You may find it easier to sleep if you have these treatments.
Fatigue is a common lymphoma sex symptom, but it can be a sign of other conditions too. You might feel tired all the time, even if you are working or doing other activities that require energy.
You might feel very drained, and find that you can’t do simple things like getting dressed or going to the toilet without feeling exhausted. This type of fatigue isn’t normal and should be treated immediately.
Blood tests and bone marrow biopsy are the main way your doctor can detect lymphoma. This involves taking a small amount of tissue from one or more lymph nodes or from the bone marrow, the spongy part inside bones where blood cells are made.
Bone marrow aspiration is another test for lymphoma that involves injecting a needle into your hip, spine, or pelvis to remove a small amount of bone marrow. This test can help your doctor diagnose lymphoma and check if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.
Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and are a possible sign that the cancer is growing quickly. The lymph nodes can push on the superior vena cava (SVC), a large vein that carries blood from the head and arms to your heart. This can lead to a bluish-red appearance in your head, arms and upper chest. It can also cause breathing problems and a change in consciousness.
Fever is a common lymphoma physiologic symptom that happens when the cancer is growing quickly. It causes your body to use up more energy, which makes you feel hot and shivery. It’s not as severe as a viral fever, but it can be uncomfortable and should be treated immediately.
