Verified on 04/19/2024 by Alexane Flament, Editor
The Hodgkin’s lymphomaalso known as lymphatic cancer, is a disease that affects lymphocytes, white blood cells essential in fighting infections.
This form of cancer can manifest in various parts of the body, impacting the two main types of lymphocytes, B and T. B lymphocytes are responsible for producing antibodies to fight infections, while T lymphocytes play a crucial role in the regulation of the immune system.
To identify the signs of lymphoma, here is a list of seven symptoms to watch for.
Enlarged lymph nodes
When lymphoma develops, the first symptom experienced by the patient is often an abnormal enlargement of the lymph nodes located in the neck, armpits and groin.
Although this enlargement may not be painful in itself, it can put pressure on tissues and organs, causing discomfort and even localized pain.
Development of pain in different parts of the body
A patient suffering from lymphatic cancer may observe hypertrophy of his lymph nodes in a localized manner causing various symptoms.
For example, an increase in lymph nodes in the thoracic region or mediastinum causes swelling of the face, neck or legs, as well as difficulty breathing and persistent coughing.
On the other hand, if the growth occurs in the abdomen, it can lead to abdominal discomfort, back pain or bloating.
Rashes and itching
Rashes and itching are among the most common symptoms associated with lymphatic cancer. They generally appear on the chest, stomach or back.
Fatigue
As is the case with many diseases and cancers, fatigue is one of the first symptoms experienced in lymphoma. This fatigue is chronic and persists even after a restful night’s sleep, and is accompanied by a feeling of weakness in the body.
High fever
In many cases of lymphatic cancer, patients also suffer from inexplicable and persistent fever, with a temperature exceeding 38°C. This symptom usually occurs when type B lymphocytes are affected by the disease.
Night sweats
Often associated with fever, night sweats are common in patients with lymphatic cancer. They are so intense that they can wet not only sleepwear, but also bedding, from sheets to mattresses.
Weightloss
This symptom is often enigmatic. However, a patient with lymphoma will often tend to lose weight without changing their diet. This weight loss, corresponding to more than 10% of the patient’s body weight, generally occurs about six months before the appearance of other symptoms.
It is important to emphasize that not all of these symptoms are specific to lymphoma and can also be caused by other conditions and diseases.
Journalist
April 19, 2024, at 10:10 a.m.
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