What is Lymphoma: Symptoms and Treatment Option

Ever noticed a persistent swelling in your neck, a fatigue that doesn’t go away, or night sweats that keep you up? At first, it might seem like a sign of stress, but when these signs linger, they can point to something more serious, like lymphoma. For many, a lymphoma diagnosis feels overwhelming, sparking questions about what it means, how it’s treated, and what the future holds.

This blog will help you understand lymphoma, lymphoma symptoms, lymphoma treatment options, and the importance of early detection and comprehensive care.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a critical part of the body’s immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and lymphatic vessels, all working together to fight infections and remove waste from the body. When lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) grow uncontrollably or don’t die as they should, lymphoma develops.

It’s broadly categorised into two main types:

• Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): Characterised by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, this type is less common but often has a higher cure rate.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): More prevalent, this category includes various subtypes, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches.

Recognising Lymphoma Symptoms

Early detection of lymphoma symptoms can significantly improve outcomes. The challenge is that these symptoms often mimic less serious conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis. Here are the most common lymphoma symptoms to be aware of:

• Swollen Lymph Nodes: Painless swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin is a hallmark sign. These nodes may feel firm or rubbery and don’t resolve like typical infections.
• Fatigue: Persistent, unexplained tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
• Night Sweats: Drenching sweats, especially at night, that soak bedding or clothing.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing 10% or more of body weight without trying over a few months.
• Fever: Low-grade fevers without an obvious cause, often recurring.
• Itching: Generalised itching, particularly after alcohol consumption or without a visible rash, is more common in Hodgkin Lymphoma.
• Shortness of Breath or Cough: If lymphoma affects lymph nodes in the chest, it may cause breathing difficulties or a persistent cough.

While the symptoms mentioned above are quite common, you should also know some of the less common lymphoma symptoms. This includes abdominal pain, swelling, or a feeling of fullness if the spleen or liver is involved. Because these symptoms are non-specific, many people overlook them, attributing them to stress, infections, or ageing. If you or someone you know experiences persistent lymphoma symptoms, consult a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors of Lymphoma

Understanding the risk factors can help you stay vigilant, especially if they fall into high-risk categories. However, lymphoma can affect anyone, so awareness of lymphoma symptoms is critical for everyone. The exact cause of lymphoma remains unclear, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Immune System Issues: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, autoimmune diseases, or organ transplants that require immunosuppressive drugs weaken the immune system, raising the risk.
• Infections: Viruses like Epstein-Barr (linked to Hodgkin Lymphoma), Hepatitis C, or Helicobacter pylori infections are associated with certain lymphoma subtypes.
• Family History: While not strongly hereditary, having a close relative with lymphoma slightly increases risk.
• Age and Gender: Hodgkin Lymphoma is more common in young adults (15–35) and older adults (over 55), while Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma risk rises with age. Men are slightly more likely to develop lymphoma.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals, pesticides, or radiation may contribute to the risk.

Diagnosing Lymphoma

Diagnosing lymphoma involves a combination of medical history review, physical exams, and diagnostic tests. If lymphoma symptoms are present, doctors may recommend:

• Biopsy: The gold standard for diagnosis, where a sample of the affected lymph node or tissue is examined under a microscope to detect cancerous cells.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, PET scans, or MRIs help determine the extent of lymphoma and whether it has spread.
• Blood Tests: These assess overall health, organ function, and markers that may indicate lymphoma.
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: Used to check if lymphoma has spread to the bone marrow.

Lymphoma Treatment Options

Lymphoma treatment depends on the type, stage, and patient’s overall health. Advances in medical science have made lymphoma highly treatable, with many patients achieving remission or long-term survival. Here are some common lymphoma treatment:

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It’s often the primary lymphoma treatment for both Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Regimens like ABVD (for Hodgkin) or CHOP (for Non-Hodgkin) are tailored to the subtype and stage. Chemotherapy may be administered orally, intravenously, or through spinal injections for certain cases.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation targets specific areas where lymphoma is present, often used in early-stage Hodgkin Lymphoma or in combination with chemotherapy. It’s particularly effective for localised tumours but requires careful planning to minimise damage to healthy tissues.

Immunotherapy

This innovative lymphoma treatment harnesses the immune system to fight cancer. Monoclonal antibodies, like rituximab, target specific proteins on lymphoma cells, marking them for destruction. Immunotherapy is especially effective for certain Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma subtypes.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted drugs, such as ibrutinib or venetoclax, focus on specific molecular pathways in lymphoma cells, sparing healthy cells. These are often used when chemotherapy is less effective or for relapsed cases.

Stem Cell Transplant

For aggressive or relapsed lymphoma, high-dose chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant may be recommended. This replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells, allowing the body to produce normal blood cells.

Watchful Waiting

In some slow-growing (indolent) Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas, doctors may recommend monitoring without immediate lymphoma treatment, especially if symptoms are minimal. This approach avoids unnecessary side effects while keeping the disease in check.

Side Effects of Lymphoma Treatment

Now that you know about the lymphoma treatment, you should also know that the treatment can cause side effects like nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and increased infection risk. Long-term effects may include heart or lung issues, infertility, or secondary cancers. Supportive care, including nutrition, counselling, and medications, helps manage these effects, improving quality of life during treatment.

Living with Lymphoma: Lifestyle and Support

A lymphoma diagnosis doesn’t just affect the body, it impacts mental and emotional well-being. Here are ways to cope and thrive during and after lymphoma treatment:

• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports the immune system and recovery.
• Exercise: Gentle activities like walking or yoga can reduce fatigue and improve mood, as approved by your healthcare team.
• Mental Health: Counselling or support groups provide emotional support, helping patients and families navigate the challenges of lymphoma.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor for recurrence, manage side effects, and maintain overall health.

The Role of Health Insurance in Lymphoma Care

Lymphoma treatment can be financially daunting, with costs for diagnostics, hospital stays, medications, and follow-up care adding up quickly. Comprehensive health insurance can alleviate this burden. They offer coverage for hospitalisation, chemotherapy, radiation, and post-treatment care, ensuring you can focus on recovery without worrying about expenses. Early diagnosis and timely lymphoma treatment are more accessible with robust insurance, making it a critical tool for managing lymphoma.

Preventing Lymphoma: Is It Possible?

Since the exact cause of lymphoma is unknown, prevention is challenging. While the steps listed below can’t guarantee prevention, they contribute to overall health, potentially lowering the risk of lymphoma and other diseases:

• Avoid Infections: Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated, and manage chronic infections like Hepatitis C.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking or excessive alcohol.
• Limit Chemical Exposure: Use protective gear when handling pesticides or chemicals in occupational settings.

Wrapping Up

A lymphoma diagnosis is a life-altering event, but with early detection, advanced lymphoma treatment, and the right support, many people lead fulfilling lives post-diagnosis. Recognising lymphoma symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention, and accessing quality care are key to managing this disease.

At Niva Bupa, we’re committed to supporting you through every step of your health journey. Our comprehensive health insurance plans, such as critical health plans, cover critical aspects of lymphoma treatment, from diagnostics to recovery, ensuring financial peace of mind.

People Also Ask

1. What are the early signs of lymphoma?

   Early lymphoma symptoms include painless swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss. Consult a doctor if these persist for more than a few weeks.

2. How is lymphoma diagnosed?

   Diagnosis involves a biopsy of the affected lymph node, imaging tests (CT/PET scans), and blood tests to confirm lymphoma and determine its type and stage.

3. What causes lymphoma?

   The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include a weakened immune system, certain infections, family history, and exposure to chemicals or radiation.

4. Is lymphoma curable?

   Many cases, especially Hodgkin lymphoma, are highly treatable with lymphoma treatment like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, particularly when caught early.

5. What are the side effects of lymphoma treatment?

   Common side effects include nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and increased infection risk, but these vary by treatment type and can often be managed.

6. Can lymphoma recur after treatment?

   Yes, lymphoma can recur, but regular follow-ups and monitoring of lymphoma symptoms help detect and treat recurrence early.

7. How long does lymphoma treatment take?

   Treatment duration varies, typically lasting a few months for chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the lymphoma type and stage.

8. Is lymphoma contagious?

   No, lymphoma is not contagious. It’s a cancer caused by abnormal lymphocyte growth, not an infection that can spread.

9. Can lifestyle changes prevent lymphoma?

   While no lifestyle change guarantees prevention, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful chemicals may lower risk.

10. Does health insurance cover lymphoma treatment?

    Yes, comprehensive plans like those from Niva Bupa cover lymphoma treatment, including diagnostics, chemotherapy, and hospitalisation costs.