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The most important symptoms of early and late lymphoma
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Reviewed by: Dr. Ahmed Mohamed Al-Wabari, consultant oncology and hematology

Do you know what is the first line of defense inside your body?  

What are lymph nodes?

Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which are small clusters of cells that make up immune tissue and help fight infections and diseases.

These glands are spread throughout the body in various places. They act as filtration centers for lymphatic fluids that contain immune cells in the lymph nodes, such as B and T lymphocytes and macrophages, which play an important role in attacking germs and harmful cells, as they protect the body from any harmful microbe.

Where are the lymph nodes located in the body?

Lymph nodes are located throughout the body and in various places, but they are more concentrated in some vital areas such as the neck, armpits, thighs, chest, and abdomen.

What is the function of lymph nodes?

The main function of the lymph nodes is to filter lymph fluids from impurities, germs and harmful cells that these cells ingest.

Symptoms such as chronic fatigue, swollen glands, or unexplained weight loss deserve attention. At the Oncology Center at Al Mousa Hospital, start with a small step — a consultation that reassures you through Oncology center

How are lymph nodes formed?

Lymph nodes are made of tissue that contains immune cells.

تعرف ايضًا على : The 5 most important symptoms of lymphoma in the neck

What is lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

Symptoms of lymphoma

Below is a table showing the progression of lymphoma symptoms, divided into stages: early symptoms, intermediate symptoms, and late symptoms, as follows:

المرحلة                 Early                       Medium                       المتأخرة
الأعراض
  • Constant, unexplained fatigue.
  • Gradual loss of appetite.
  • Mild night sweats.
  • Persistent skin itching.
  • Slight rise in temperature.
  • Painless swelling in the abdomen or under the armpit.
  • Pain or pressure in the chest.
  • Unintended weight loss.
  • Obvious swelling in several areas of the body.
  • Shortness of breath upon slightest effort.
  • Profuse night sweats.
  • Feeling pain in the bones or joints.

Where do the symptoms of lymphoma begin?

Lymphoma usually begins in lymphocytes found within the lymph nodes. 

What is the difference between lymphoma and cancer?

The difference between lymphoma and cancer lies in the nature of the growth and its spread. The tumor is defined as a mass resulting from abnormal cell growth, but it is not always malignant.

How to diagnose lymphoma symptoms?

Diagnosing lymphoma requires several tests, including:

  • Clinical examination to determine the presence of enlarged lymph nodes.
  • Blood tests to evaluate the health of immune cells.
  • X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) to get accurate pictures of the lymph nodes and their structure.
  • Taking a sample of the lymph node (biopsy) for analysis in laboratory laboratories and determining the type of cancer, its degree of severity, and its spread.

How do lymph nodes become cancerous?

Lymph nodes develop cancer when lymphocytes begin to grow abnormally and become larger than normal in size. 

The exact causes of lymphoma are unknown, but may include genetic factors, exposure to viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Lymph nodes develop cancer when lymphocytes begin to grow abnormally and become larger than normal in size. 

The exact causes of lymphoma are unknown, but may include genetic factors, exposure to viruses such as the Epstein-Barr virus, and exposure to certain chemicals.

How to treat lymphoma symptoms?

Treatment depends سرطان الغدد الليمفاوية On the type of cancer, its stage, and its seriousness.

  • Chemotherapy: Using strong medications to kill cancer cells.
  • Radiotherapy: Using X-rays to kill or shrink cancer cells.
  • Immunotherapy: Strengthening the immune system to fight cancer using medications or any other methods to raise immunity.
  • Bone marrow transplant: Replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow that produces healthy cells.

The patient may need a combination of these medical interventions depending on his condition.

احجز استشارتك الان فى Oncology center At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital 

Is there a definitive treatment for lymphoma?

Lymphoma can be treated successfully in many cases, especially if it is detected in the early stages, as is the case in all cases Types The secretطان. يمكن أن يؤدي العلاج إلى الشفاء التام في بعض الحالات، لكن يظل هناك احتمال للعودة في بعض الحالات ولهذا يتطلب العلاج متابعة طبية مستمرة لضمان عدم عودة المرض مرة أخرى أو تفاقم حالته إذا عاد.

Who are the people most at risk of developing lymphoma?

Risk factors for lymphoma include:

  • Family history of the disease.
  • Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins.
  • Weakened immune system as a result of other diseases or treatments such as organ transplants.
  • Some viruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

My experience with the symptoms of lymphoma

My experience with the symptoms of lymphoma started with something simple that I did not pay any attention to at first: feeling constantly tired despite getting good sleep. I noticed a strange loss of my appetite, and my weight began to decrease without any effort on my part. Then I began to feel sweaty during sleep to the point that I had to change my clothes. I thought it was just temporary fatigue or psychological pressure, but after a while things began to develop when I felt heaviness in my chest and shortness of breath, so I decided to visit a doctor.

The doctor performed several tests on me, including a CT scan and blood tests. Later, I underwent a biopsy of swollen lymph nodes under my armpit. It did not take long for the doctor to tell me the diagnosis, which was lymphoma. It was a huge shock, but knowing the real cause gave me a feeling of relief, and the treatment journey began immediately with complete confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Can lymph nodes be removed?

Yes, lymph nodes can be surgically removed in some cases as part of cancer treatment. This is usually done when there is a need to reduce the size of the tumor or to ensure that the cancer has not spread to other parts of the body.

When should you go to the doctor if you suspect the presence of lymph nodes?

You should go to the doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained swelling of the lymph nodes that lasts for more than two weeks.
  • Unexplained fever or weight loss.
  • Profuse night sweats.
  • Constant fatigue for no apparent reason.
  • Any other unusual symptoms that persist or worsen.

These symptoms do not definitely mean that you have cancer, but if you suffer from any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor immediately.

What are the symptoms of lymphoma at the beginning of the disease?

At the beginning of the disease, symptoms may be subtle and include:

  • Small, painless swelling of the lymph nodes.
  • Mild fever or feeling tired.
  • Slight, unexplained weight loss.
  • Occasional night sweats.
  • Skin itching for no apparent reason.

Lymphoma is a disease that can be scary, but early detection and proper treatment can increase the chances of recovery.

Does the CBC test detect glandular cancer?

No, it is not possible to detect glandular cancer and confirm the infection simply by analyzing the CBC, as it shows some changes in the blood, such as a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a sharp decrease in platelets, but it alone does not confirm the incidence of cancer.

You can book your appointment with your private doctor from هنا.

Sources and references

Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

 Lymphoma—Patient Version

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