Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Understanding Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma -- Symptoms

Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma may include:

• Painless swelling, of one or more lymph nodes, with no recent infection. The lymph node swelling may be intermittent.
• Swelling, fluid accumulation, or pain in the abdomen.
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing.
• Bloody stool or vomit.
• Swelling of the face, neck, and arms.
• Blockage of urine flow.
• Bone pain.
• Unexplained weight loss amounting to 10% of body weight over six months.
• Fever lasting for at least 14 consecutive days, usually in the late afternoon and early evening, and rarely above 102 degrees.
• Headache.
• Seizures.
• Visual problems.
• Mental status changes.
• Numbness on areas of the face.
• Balance problems.
• Night sweats and chills lasting at least 14 consecutive days.
• Severe itching of the skin.
• Fatigue.
• Weakness.

The symptoms of fever, night sweats, and weight loss are known as "B" symptoms. They are seen in 40% of persons with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and are associated with more advanced and more aggressive disease. 

Call Your Doctor If:

• You notice a swollen, painless lymph node and have not had an infection recently.
• You have unexplained abdominal pain or swelling.
• You develop an unexplained cough, shortness of breath, or wheezing.
• You develop swelling of the face, neck, or arms.
• You have unintended weight loss, fever, severe fatigue, or soaking night sweats lasting more than two weeks.
• You have unexplainable, severe itching of your skin.
• You have changes in your mental activity.