Common symptoms of lymphomaWe outline the common symptoms of lymphoma below. However, it’s important to note that these can have other causes. Having one or more doesn’t necessarily mean that you have lymphoma. Show
Swollen lymph nodes The most common sign of lymphoma is a lump or lumps, usually in the neck, armpit or groin. These lumps are swollen lymph nodes, sometimes known as ‘glands’. Usually, they’re painless. Fatigue Fatigue is different to normal tiredness. It means feeling exhausted for no obvious reason or feeling washed out after doing very little. Unexplained weight loss Losing a lot of weight quite quickly without trying to can be a symptom of lymphoma. Infections Getting infections more easily and having difficulty getting rid of them can be a symptom of lymphoma. Sweats Sweats can happen at any time of the day with lymphoma, but they are most common at night. They are often described as ‘drenching’ and can make your nightclothes or bed sheets soaking wet. Itching Itching (‘pruritus’) without a rash can be a symptom of lymphoma. It can be very uncomfortable, particularly when you get hot. Fever Some people get fevers (temperatures above 38°C or 100.4°F). Fevers often come together with night sweats and weight loss, but they can happen separately. They can also be a sign of infection. Watch Dr Andrew Davies, Consultant in Medical Oncology, talk about the most common symptoms of lymphoma
Back to top B symptomsYou might hear the term ‘B symptoms’. This means that you have:
Doctors often use these during staging (working out how many different parts of your body are affected by lymphoma). B symptoms are more common with some types of lymphoma than others. Doctors will take account of whether you have any B symptoms when they plan your treatment. Back to top ‘Local’ and ‘systemic’ symptomsSymptoms of lymphoma can be:
Local symptomsLocal symptoms affect the area in and around the lymphoma itself. The most common local symptom is a swollen lymph node or nodes. Other local symptoms are caused by swollen nodes pressing on nearby tissues. The symptoms you have depend on where the swollen lymph nodes are. You might have:
Less common symptoms include:
Systemic symptomsSystemic symptoms affect your whole body. They can include:
Systemic symptoms are more common with Hodgkin lymphoma and high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma. They are less common in people with low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Back to top Swollen lymph nodesLymph nodes help to fight infection. They can become swollen for lots of reasons (for example, having an infection such as a cold), even when they’re working as they should. A swollen lymph node or nodes is the most common symptom of lymphoma. However, there are many other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes. Most people who have swollen lymph nodes do not have lymphoma. Also, a cyst or harmless fatty growth can sometimes look a bit like a swollen lymph node. If you notice a lump that doesn’t go away within 2 to 3 weeks, or you find that a lump is getting bigger, see your GP. It isn’t possible to tell if someone has lymphoma just by feeling a lymph node. However, your GP can examine you to check whether they should refer you for further tests and scans. Lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin are close to the surface of the skin and are easy to see and feel. Others that are deep inside the chest or tummy (abdomen), can’t be felt from the outside. They might only be found on a scan. They can cause pain if they swell and press on tissues inside your body. Swollen lymph nodes caused by lymphoma:
Rarely, swollen lymph nodes can become painful soon after drinking alcohol. This affects up to 5 in 100 people with Hodgkin lymphoma. Where might lymphoma cause swollen lymph nodes?Swollen lymph nodes might be in just one area of your body. This can happen with any type of lymphoma. You might have swollen lymph nodes spread throughout your body (‘generalised lymphadenopathy’), which is more common in non-Hodgkin lymphoma than Hodgkin lymphoma. Why does lymphoma cause swollen lymph nodes?Swollen lymph nodes in lymphoma are caused by a build-up of cancerous cells in the lymph nodes. Sometimes the lymphoma is active, which means that it’s making lots of cancerous cells. At other times, it’s less active, and some of the lymphoma cells die. Lymph nodes sometimes grow (during times of high activity) and shrink (when activity is lower), especially in people with low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma. What else can cause swollen lymph nodes?There are many other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes, including:
Back to top FatigueFatigue is exhaustion that can be physical, emotional or mental. You might feel tired after doing very little. Sometimes, people describe it as ‘debilitating’ or feeling ‘drained of energy’. Fatigue can be a symptom of lymphoma and there are lots of possible reasons for this. However, there are many other possible causes of fatigue. For example: anaemia (a low number of red blood cells), an underactive thyroid gland, depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ‘ME’) and glandular fever. Back to top Unexplained weight lossUnexplained weight loss means losing weight over a short amount of time without trying to. The NHS advises that you see your GP if you lose more than 5% of your normal body weight over 6 to 12 months.
Speak to your GP if you lose a lot of weight over 6 to 12 months without trying to. Lymphoma can cause weight loss because cancerous cells use up your energy resources. At the same time, your body uses energy trying to get rid of the cancerous cells. Weight loss is more common with fast-growing (high-grade) lymphomas as these can put a sudden demand on your body. Lymphoma is just one of the possible causes of unexplained weight loss. As with many other symptoms, weight loss can happen for a lot of other reasons, such as stress, depression, digestive problems, or an overactive thyroid gland. Back to top Night sweatsLymphoma can cause night sweats that make your nightclothes and bedsheets soaking wet. They are often described as ‘drenching’. Although they are usually called night sweats, they can also sometimes happen during the day. Any type of lymphoma can cause night sweats, though doctors don’t really know why. One possibility is that they happen as part of your body’s reaction to chemicals the lymphoma cells produce. Another is that they are a natural response to your body’s temperature rising above a normal level (fever) – as sweating is a way of cooling your body down. Night sweats can have other causes, such as infection, anxiety, menopause, overactive thyroid gland and some medicines. Speak to your doctor if you have night sweats that wake you up or if you also have other symptoms, such as fever or unexplained weight loss. Back to top ItchingItching (‘pruritus’) is much more common with Hodgkin lymphoma than non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Itching caused by lymphoma can affect:
It can be severe and might also cause a burning sensation. It’s uncommon to have a rash with it, unless you have skin lymphoma. Contact your GP if you have itching that affects your whole body or lasts for more than 2 weeks. Itching can be very uncomfortable, particularly in the heat. It is usually worse at night in bed. If you have a diagnosis of lymphoma and you are struggling with itching, there are things you could try that might help. Speak to your medical team for advice. Itching in lymphoma is thought to happen because of your body’s reaction to chemicals released by your immune system in reaction to the lymphoma. These chemicals irritate the nerves in your skin and make it itch. Although itching is common in people with lymphoma, having itchy skin does not necessarily mean you have lymphoma. Itching can have many different and far more common causes, including allergies, skin conditions such as eczema, skin infections or menopause. Back to top FeverFever is high body temperature of 38°C or 100.4°F or over. It is almost always caused by an infection, but there are a few other less common causes, including lymphoma. With lymphoma, fevers are usually mild (low-grade). This means that they are only a little over normal body temperature. Usually, these fevers come and go. Lymphoma causes fevers because the lymphoma cells produce chemicals that raise your body temperature. Contact your doctor if you have a fever that goes on for a while without an obvious infection. Back to top Difficulty recovering from infectionsHaving lymphoma can mean that your immune system is weakened. Normally, white blood cells fight infections. If you have lymphoma, cancerous white blood cells (that make up the lymphoma) are produced instead of the healthy white blood cells. This can make you develop infections more easily. The infections could be more severe or last for longer than they would normally. Infections often cause a high temperature and make you feel hot and shivery. Other symptoms depend on where in your body you have the infection – for example, you might have an earache, a cough, a sore throat, pain when you wee, or sickness and diarrhoea. See your GP if you’re worried that you’re not getting better after a minor infection. Back to top Chest symptomsSwollen lymph nodes in the chest are quite common in Hodgkin lymphoma and some types of high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, any type of lymphoma can cause them. Swollen lymph nodes in the chest can press on your airways and lungs. They can also cause fluid to collect around your lungs. Swollen lymph nodes in the chest can cause symptoms such as:
These can be worse when you lie down. If you have a cough or shortness of breath that lasts for more than 3 weeks, speak to your GP. Swollen lymph nodes that press against blood vessels can lower the blood flow through them. This can cause swelling and, in some cases, can increase the risk of a clot forming. Back to top Tummy (abdominal) symptomsLymphoma can develop in lymph nodes in the abdomen or lymphatic tissue in your liver or spleen. It can also develop outside your lymphatic system (‘extranodal’ lymphoma). The gut is the most common place for extranodal lymphoma to develop. Symptoms depend on which parts of your body are affected. For example:
See your GP urgently if your skin or the whites of your eyes look yellow. Speak to your GP if you have any of the following symptoms:
Back to top PainLymphoma isn’t usually painful but sometimes, swollen nodes press on other tissues and nerves which can cause pain. Lymphoma in the bone itself (rather than in the bone marrow) is rare but when it does happen, it can cause pain in the affected bone. Back to top Skin symptomsLymphoma can cause itchy skin. If you have skin lymphoma, you might have symptoms that affect your skin. Common symptoms depend on the type of skin lymphoma, but could include:
Lymphoma in the skin can look a lot like other skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. If you have been diagnosed with skin lymphoma, you might be interested in our information about living with skin lymphoma. Speak to your GP urgently if you have a rash that:
If you have a new rash that doesn’t go away within a few days, seek advice from your GP. Back to top Brain and nerve symptomsSymptoms that affect your brain and nerves depend on where the lymphoma is. Lymphoma that affects your central nervous system (CNS)Central nervous system lymphoma is an uncommon type of lymphoma that is in your brain, spinal cord or eyes (your central nervous system, or CNS). Symptoms depend on where the lymphoma is, but can include:
Lymphoma that affects your peripheral nervous systemOther types of lymphoma can cause damage to the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord (the peripheral nervous system). This is called peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy depend on which group of nerves are affected. They can include:
Tell your GP if you have any of these symptoms. Peripheral neuropathy can happen if the lymphoma produces chemicals that stick to nerves and damage them. It is quite common in people with Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia (WM). Rarely, lymphoma spreads into the nerves. It can push up against them or grow around the tiny blood vessels that supply them. This can cause symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can also affect the nerves of your autonomic nervous system, which carry messages between your brain and your internal organs. This can cause symptoms such as blood pressure changes and light-headedness. Thinking processes (cognition)Lymphoma can affect thinking processes (cognition) such as memory, attention and speed of response. This is known as cancer-related cognitive impairment (‘chemo brain’). However, anyone with lymphoma might be affected, not only people treated with chemotherapy. Fatigue or emotional factors, such as stress and anxiety, can also have an impact. Back to top Swelling in the arms or legs (lymphoedema)Swollen lymph nodes can sometimes block the lymphatic vessels (tubes that run throughout your body and carry lymph fluid). This stops the lymph fluid draining properly from the tissues in your body. The lymph fluid can then build up, causing lymphoedema (swelling in the body’s tissues). Possible symptoms include swelling, feelings of tightness, heaviness, aching or soreness. It usually affects an arm or a leg, although it can affect other areas of your body, depending on where the lymphoma is. Other conditions can also cause lymphoedema. For example, infection, injury, genetic conditions and surgery. If you have any symptoms of lymphoedema, speak to your GP. Back to top AnaemiaMany people with lymphoma are affected by anaemia at some point during their illness. Anaemia means that you have a shortage of red blood cells. This can make you feel tired and breathless because your body has to work harder than usual to get enough oxygen. You might experience anaemia if lymphoma affects your red blood cells, for example:
Symptoms of anaemia can include:
If you experience symptoms of anaemia, contact your GP. There are lots of other causes of anaemia, including nutritional deficiencies (particularly iron), heavy periods, pregnancy and some infections. Back to top Frequently asked questions about symptoms of lymphomaIn this section, we answer some of the common questions about symptoms of lymphoma. If you have been diagnosed with lymphoma, seek guidance about symptoms from your medical team. If you have not been diagnosed with lymphoma, speak to your GP for advice. What are the most common symptoms of lymphoma?Lymphoma can cause many different symptoms, depending on its type and where it is in your body. The most common symptoms of lymphoma are:
Will I get all of the symptoms of lymphoma?There are over 60 types of lymphoma, broadly divided into Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. These lymphomas can start almost anywhere in the body and can have many different symptoms. The exact symptoms they cause depend on the type of lymphoma and where it is in the body. Even with the same type of lymphoma, different people are affected differently. For example:
I haven’t been diagnosed with lymphoma but I’m concerned about symptoms – what should I do?If you are concerned about any symptoms you’re experiencing, speak to your GP. You might find it helps to keep a note of your symptoms and how they’re affecting you. You could have this with you when you speak to your GP so that you remember everything you want to discuss. If your GP suspects lymphoma, you might be referred for tests and scans. If you would like to speak to a member of our helpline team about any aspect of lymphoma, contact us for support. I have been diagnosed with lymphoma and I’m finding my symptoms difficult to cope with – what can I do?Speak to a member of your medical team for advice about how to manage symptoms of lymphoma. Depending on the symptom and how it’s affecting you, they might be able to offer tips, treatment, or a referral to another health professional. You might also be interested in our information about coping with symptoms of lymphoma; however, check with a member of your medical team whether the approaches outlined are suitable for you. Contact us if you’d like to speak to a member of our helpline team about any aspect of your lymphoma. Back to top What are the symptoms of neck pain along the lymph nodes?Common accompanying symptoms of neck pain along the lymph nodes. 1 Fever. 2 Congestion. 3 Cough. 4 Sore throat. 5 Rash. 6 Drainage (also called rhinorrhea) 7 Tenderness. 8 Night sweats. 9 Shortness of breath. 10 Palpable bump or lumps along the neck.
What causes swollen lymph nodes on the side of neck?Swollen lymph nodes. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause lymph nodes to become enlarged. Enlarged lymph nodes close to the surface of the body (such as on the sides of the neck, in the groin or underarm areas, or above the collar bone), may be seen or felt as lumps under the skin. These are usually not painful.
What are swollen lymph nodes a sign of?Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area. Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body.
What causes swollen lymph nodes in the stomach?It's quite possible you have a bacterial infection in your digestive tract. That would explain your symptoms and the swollen lymph nodes in your stomach area. My daughter had one, and it took some time and special antibiotics to clear it up. If your doctor doesn't seem to want to deal with this, it might not be a bad idea to get a second opinion.
Can swollen lymph nodes cause stomach pain?Mesenteric lymphadenitis is inflammation (swelling) of the lymph nodes in the abdomen (belly). Symptoms include pain and tenderness in the abdomen, nausea and diarrhea. Treatment of rest and pain medications alleviate symptoms.
Does lymphoma make your stomach hurt?Lymphomas that start or grow in the abdomen (belly) can cause swelling or pain in the abdomen. This could be from lymph nodes or organs such as the spleen or liver enlarging, but it can also be caused by the build-up of large amounts of fluid.
What are the warning signs of Hodgkin's lymphoma?Signs and symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma may include:. Painless swelling of lymph nodes in your neck, armpits or groin.. Persistent fatigue.. Fever.. Night sweats.. Losing weight without trying.. Severe itching.. Pain in your lymph nodes after drinking alcohol.. What was your first lymphoma symptom?The most common symptom is enlargement or swelling of one or more lymph nodes, causing a lump or bump under the skin which usually doesn't hurt. It's most often on the side of the neck, in the armpit, or in the groin.
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