6 Early Warning Signs of Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that happens due to hindrance to the development of lymphocytes, a variety of white blood cells. The early warning signs of this serious disease are so subtle that they may resemble like regular health ailments. However, recognizing the symptoms of lymphoma can help you access timely treatment. So, here are some of the commonly experienced early lymphoma signs.
- Swelling – Swelling can occur in different parts of the lymphoma patients, depending on the body part that has been affected. If the lymphoma growth has been blocking the blood vessels, you may experience swelling in the face, chest, or neck. Depending on the extent of blockage in the blood flow, the swelling can range from minor to severe. Similarly, the swelling can occur internally in the stomach, intestine, and bowel, causing pain.
- Enlarged lymph nodes – In the long list of early lymphoma signs, enlarged lymph nodes are the most common yet the most overlooked symptom. Since they are painless, the patient does not feel any bit of discomfort. Therefore, if you see any suspicious growth in the lymph nodes, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
- Minor to severe pain – Although the disease is often seen as painless in the early stages, some people may experience deliberating pain as the disease progresses. Whether you start to suffer sudden excruciating migraine episodes or stomach aches that just don’t subside, it is better to consult an expert.
- Extreme weight loss – Among various early Lymphoma signs, this one is extremely important and must not be taken lightly. Like every other form of cancer, lymphoma patients may lose an excessive amount of weight in a short period of time. This weight loss occurs without any healthy alterations in diet or lifestyle. One may experience loss of appetite and trouble in digesting food, which may eventually lead to weight loss.
- Excessive perspiration – Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis occurs in patients with lymphoma. Usually, patients tend to sweat a lot at night, and some people report suddenly waking up in the middle of the night, just to find themselves completely drenched in sweat. Researchers suggest that it could be linked to the activities of the immune system that happen during the night.
- Irritated skin – Early lymphoma signs include constant irritation of the skin. As lymphoma cells progress, they produce chemical byproducts that cause different reactions on the skin. Such chemical secretions cause itching, which further affects the entire body. Topical treatment may provide some relief, but it is short-lived.
The symptoms of lymphoma cancer may appear as harmless and minor, but they must be detected in time so that the cancer cells can be prevented from spreading. Mentioned above are some of the common early lymphoma signs that you must keep a check on.