Lymphoma develops as a result of cancer attacking the lymphatic system. Lymphoma breeds in the lymphocytes, which form part of the white blood cells. Lymphoma can take two different forms; Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Most lymphoma patients fall in the latter category, but it is important to differentiate between the two, as each kind requires different medication. In general, men and those with lowered immune systems are at higher risk of developing lymphoma.

The five most common symptoms linked to lymphoma are as follows:

1. Persistent fatigue

Patients with lymphoma experience constant fatigue, ranging from muscle weakness to difficulty staying awake. Although the cancer primarily destroys the white blood cells, lymphoma also affects the red blood cells to a certain extent. This leads to anemia due to a drastic drop in blood levels. Since the red blood cells carry oxygen, the little oxygen left is not fully sufficient to support normal bodily function. The persistent fatigue that results can be addressed by avoiding rigorous activities and ensuring proper rest.

2. Fever or night sweats

Depending on the type of lymphoma, patients may experience fevers. Pel-Epstein is a Hodgkin’s fever that appears sporadically with intervals of up to two weeks. The drastic rise in body temperatures causes abnormal sweating at night, and those in preliminary stages of the disease may also experience sweating during the day. Due to this sweating, patients should drink plenty of water to ensure they are staying fully hydrated.

3. Shortness of breath

This symptom occurs as the thymus nodes are enlarged, putting pressure on a patient’s trachea. This pressure constricts the airways, making it difficult to breath and get enough oxygen. Chest cramps and nose blockages are also synonymous with this symptom. Shortness of breath can be aggravated if the patient develops anemia, as mentioned earlier, due to the low oxygen levels. In severe cases, the patient can feel that they are unable to breathe at all, in which case they should seek immediate medical attention.

4. Unexplained weight loss

The lymphoma cancer cells quickly burn energy from the body, leading to unexpected drops in weight. Even in critical stages, the victim can lose up to an eighth of their total body weight. The problem can become severe, since the patient needs substantial energy to fight lymphoma. If the patient loses appetite or is depressed, the problem can quickly escalate.

5. Painless swelling of lymph nodes

This is a lymphoma symptom that indicates an individual likely has this disease. The dramatic increase in the size of the lymph nodes is linked to the chemical reactions between the disease virus and the antibodies produced by the white blood cells. Itchy skin can also develop as a result of swollen lymph nodes. The earlier this symptom is noticed, the earlier and more effectively it can be treated. However, note that not all cases of swollen lymph nodes indicate lymphoma, so a medical examination is essential first.