Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Signs and Symptoms
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a group of cancers that affect the lymphatic system. The two main types are B-cell lymphoma (most common), which originates in certain white blood cells known as B lymphocytes, and T-cell lymphoma, which originates in certain white blood cells known as T lymphocytes. Although the various types and subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma share many characteristics, they differ in several key ways, including their molecular features and growth patterns, their impact on the body and how they respond to treatment.
In general, non-Hodgkin lymphoma tends to develop slowly and often produces no noticeable symptoms other than occasional painless swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits and groin. Because these small, bean-shaped glands play a key role in the body’s immune response, they usually become enlarged when fighting off an infection. Therefore, swollen lymph nodes are common and typically not a sign of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in a healthy individual.
10 non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms you should not ignore
In addition to swollen lymph nodes, non-Hodgkin lymphoma can cause other symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Persistent coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Overwhelming fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Mental confusion
- Headaches
- Skin itchiness and redness
As non-Hodgkin lymphoma progresses, it may cause additional symptoms that are specific to the area of the body affected, such as abdominal pain and bloating.
Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center
It is always important to discuss non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms with a physician who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The multispecialty team in Moffitt’s renowned Malignant Hematology Program focuses exclusively on diagnosing and treating all types of lymphoma, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We develop a tailored treatment plan for each patient, overseeing all aspects of their care in a single location.
As the only National Cancer Institute-recognized Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt is nationally known for its groundbreaking research. Through our robust clinical trials program, we offer our patients early access to leading-edge lymphoma treatments before those options are made available in other settings.
If you would like to learn more about non-Hodgkin lymphoma signs and symptoms, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Malignant Hematology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.