Hodgkin Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. It typically affects the lymph nodes, but can also occur in other parts of the lymphatic system such as the spleen, bone marrow, or liver.

Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of Hodgkin Lymphoma is crucial for early detection and successful treatment. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:.

1. Enlarged lymph nodes

One of the most common symptoms of Hodgkin Lymphoma is the presence of enlarged, painless lymph nodes. These enlarged nodes are usually firm to the touch and may be present in the neck, underarms, or groin.

In some cases, these nodes may cause discomfort or pain when pressed.

2. Unexplained weight loss

Another potential symptom of Hodgkin Lymphoma is unexplained weight loss. Patients may experience a sudden and significant decrease in weight without any apparent cause.

This weight loss is often accompanied by loss of appetite and a general feeling of fatigue or weakness.

3. Night sweats

Frequent, profuse night sweats can also be indicative of Hodgkin Lymphoma. These night sweats are often drenching, requiring a change of clothes or bedding.

Night sweats associated with lymphoma are usually not related to external factors such as room temperature or excessive blankets.

4. Fatigue

Feeling constantly tired or fatigued is a common symptom experienced by individuals with Hodgkin Lymphoma. This fatigue is not relieved by rest or sleep and may persist for an extended period of time.

It can negatively impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

5. Recurrent infections

Hodgkin Lymphoma weakens the immune system, making affected individuals more susceptible to infections. Recurrent or persistent infections, such as respiratory infections or frequent fevers, can be a warning sign of the disease.

These infections may take longer to resolve than in individuals with a healthy immune system.

6. Itchy skin

In some cases, individuals with Hodgkin Lymphoma may experience itching without a rash or any visible skin changes.

The itching can be general or localized to specific areas of the body and may worsen with exposure to hot water or during periods of increased physical activity.

7. Pain or swelling in the abdomen

In advanced stages of Hodgkin Lymphoma, the cancer can spread to the liver or spleen, leading to pain or swelling in the abdomen. This may also cause a feeling of fullness or discomfort during eating, even with small amounts of food.

8. Chest pain or cough

If Hodgkin Lymphoma affects the lymph nodes in the chest, it can cause chest pain or persistent coughing. The chest pain may worsen with deep breathing or physical exertion, and the persistent cough may be dry or accompanied by blood-tinged sputum.

9. Shortness of breath

In advanced stages of the disease, Hodgkin Lymphoma can lead to compression of the airways or fluid buildup in the chest, resulting in shortness of breath. This symptom may be more pronounced during physical activity or when lying flat.

10. Loss of appetite

Hodgkin Lymphoma can cause a loss of appetite, which may result in unintentional weight loss.

The feeling of fullness with minimal food intake can occur due to enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen or the release of cytokines by cancer cells, affecting the normal regulation of hunger signals in the body.

Symptoms of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma is a broader term for several types of lymphoma that do not exhibit the characteristic Reed-Sternberg cells found in Hodgkin Lymphoma.

While the symptoms can vary depending on the specific type and stage of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, the following are some common signs to be aware of:.

1. Painless swelling of lymph nodes

The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma is the painless enlargement of lymph nodes. The swelling may occur in the neck, armpits, groin, or other areas of the body.

Unlike Hodgkin Lymphoma, these enlarged nodes may not feel firm and can be tender to the touch.

2. Fever

Intermittent or persistent unexplained fever is often associated with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. The fever may be low-grade or high-grade and may come and go. It can be accompanied by other flu-like symptoms such as chills and night sweats.

3. Sweating

Excessive sweating, particularly at night, is another symptom that may indicate non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. The night sweats in non-Hodgkin Lymphoma can be severe and may require changing clothes and bedding.

They are often drenching and unrelated to environmental factors.

4. Fatigue

Feeling constantly tired or fatigued is a common symptom of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. This fatigue is often disproportionate to physical activity levels and can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life.

5. Unexplained weight loss

Similar to Hodgkin Lymphoma, unexplained weight loss is also a potential symptom of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Patients may experience a significant decrease in weight without intentional changes in diet or exercise.

This weight loss is often accompanied by loss of appetite.

6. Skin rash or itchy skin

Some individuals with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma may develop skin rashes or experience generalized itching. The rash may be flat or raised, red or purple, and can occur in various parts of the body.

The itching can be mild to severe and may be worsened by hot water or excessive sweating.

7. Abdominal pain or swelling

If non-Hodgkin Lymphoma affects the abdominal lymph nodes, it may cause pain or swelling in the abdomen. This can also lead to a feeling of fullness, bloating, or discomfort during eating. In some cases, constipation or diarrhea may also occur.

8. Chest pain or difficulty breathing

Involvement of the mediastinal lymph nodes in non-Hodgkin Lymphoma can result in chest pain or difficulty breathing. This pain may worsen with deep breathing or physical exertion.

Shortness of breath may also occur due to the compression of the airways by enlarged lymph nodes.

9. Neurological symptoms

In rare cases, non-Hodgkin Lymphoma can involve the central nervous system, resulting in neurological symptoms. These symptoms may include headaches, seizures, changes in vision, weakness, or numbness in the limbs.

It is essential to seek immediate medical attention if any neurological symptoms occur.

10. Swelling and pain in the leg

In some types of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, the lymphoma cells can accumulate in the leg or pelvic veins, causing swelling and pain.

This condition, known as lymphomatous panniculitis, usually affects only one leg and can be associated with other symptoms such as fever and weight loss.