There are two types of lymphomas; this article is only pertaining to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
The Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is when a malignant growth of B or T cells is present in the lymphoid system. However, there are several types under this category that are distinguished by the type of cells that grow and by the rate in which they grow. Many times the symptoms are hard to tell besides the frequency of incidences of infection and the presence of enlarged lymph nodes.
Symptoms
- Symptoms that may be noted include:
- Swollen lymph nodes found in the groin, armpits, or neck
- Weight loss
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Weakness
- Pain in the abdomen
If you have these symptoms, it does not necessary mean you have Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, however, if the symptoms are present for at least two weeks you should visit your doctor.
If your doctor suspects Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, you will need to have several tests conducted to confirm or rule out the disease. Once you have been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, more tests are given to learn the type of growth. The aggressiveness of the cancer is a determining factor as to the type of treatment along with your own general health, age, and other factors that your doctor will discuss.
There are two major types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, which are Indolent and Aggressive. With the indolent type, there are few symptoms noted and the progress is slow. With the aggressive type, it grows and spreads quickly and may lead to the symptoms mentioned above.
Your doctor will have an entire team working as one to find the best treatment plan based on their findings from all of the tests so they can meet your personal needs.
Treatment
Treatment of course is determined which type of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma you have. In cases of indolent, many times you may not need any type of cancer treatment at the beginning. The doctor will keep a close eye on your health and your symptoms. If you have indolent lymphoma, but are experiencing some symptoms, you may have to begin cancer treatment. In most cases, for Lymphoma chemotherapy is the favored treatment. However, radiation therapy may also be used for individuals that have Stage I or Stage II lymphoma.
In some cases, if the cancer cells are only in one location, radiation therapy can be used. In this manner, the cells can be target with radiation, which seems to work better when it is localized. With chemotherapy, it is administered throughout the entire body and kills all cells in the body – good and bad. Your body replenishes the good cells, but many times, you will have to receive a shot that will help your bone marrow produce adequate white blood cells to help fight infection.
In rare and advanced cases, bone marrow transplants are suggested.
As with any life threatening disease, counseling is available to help patients and their families deal with the emotional problems that occur during this time
