In our body there are several lymphocytes, which can get damaged and evolve into tumors. When there are a lot of damaged lymphocytes that need replacing it can have a negative effect on the immune system. This results in more infections. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) are different types of cancer developed in lymphatic system. It can develop in individual lymph nodes, in the liver or spleen, or even simultaneously in several part of the body. We have listed 7 facts you need to know about Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma:
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma are different types of cancer
Non-Hodgin Lymphoma are different types of cancer, which all are located in the lymphatic system. Follicular lymphoma and B-cell lymphomas are most common, but other types of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma also include small lymphatic lymphoma, Burkitt lymphoma, Primary central nervous system lymphoma, mate cell lymphoma, marginal zone B-cell lymphoma, peripheral T-cell lymphomas, and T-cell lymphomas.
General symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
The symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma can be varied and diverse. More common symptoms include swollen belly, chest pain, frequent coughs, fever, night sweat, enlarged lymph nodes, excessive tiredness, and low count of red blood cells. More individuals also experience weight loss due to reduced appetite.
What causes Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas?
Studies shows that NHL is most likely caused by a deficiency in the immune system due to changes in the DNA. The immune system can be deficient due to lack of necessary nutrients and protein, but also individuals taking medication after an organ transplant or other immune-suppressants can experience defiance in the immune system. Infections like Helicobacter Pylori, Epstein Barr virus, HTLV-1, and human herpesvirus also increase the risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, and also individuals with inherent immune issues like rheumatoid arthritis and celiac diseases are ofte also diagnosed with these types of lymphomas. Have you been exposed to radiation or cancer causing chemicals your risk of NHL is increased, but Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas are also known among individuals with no specific reason. The risk of these lymphomas increase with age.
Don’t overlook symptoms
Even though not many individuals develop NHL, one of the best ways to detect Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma early is by having regular check-ups by your GP and paying attention to any symptoms. At this very moment there is no screening test to identify Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, making it easy to overlook symptoms.
You need to be diagnosed by biopsy
Often we get enlarged lymph nodes due to infections, so to disgnose NHL you will need to get a biopsy of the particular section. Luckily not all biopsies are NHL-positive, and the symptoms can be caused by non-cancerous issues. Consult a doctor if you experience any symptoms or changes in your general health.
Lymphoma in the skin
Lymphom on your skin are visible to the human eye appearing like small red or purple lumps around the nodules. When touching you’ll experience discomfort and irritations.
Symptoms of brain lymphomas
Brain lymphomas causes headache, personality changes, and seizures and can affect your cognitive abilities. If you experience double vision, speaking issues and numbness in your face it can be signs of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma around the spinal cord and brain.