Early symptoms of lymphoma: Identification is tricky because it looks similar to viral infections, warns oncologist

Symptoms of lymphoma: Symptoms such as night sweats, fever, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are typical both in flu and in lymphoma. The difference lies in persistence (Image: Pexels)

Cancer frequently sneaks up quietly, and lymphoma is no different. Unlike solid cancers, lymphoma starts in the lymphatic system itself — a critical component of the body’s immune defense — and its symptoms in early stages can easily be confused with common ailments. A lingering cold or persistent fatigue, swollen glands also can fail to raise alarm bells but for some these are the early warnings of this blood cancer.

“Lymphoma is especially tricky because it looks very similar to viral infections,” Dr Vaishnavi Joshi, Consultant – Medical Oncology & Haemato-Oncology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, told Moneycontrol. These symptoms such as night sweats, fever, fatigue and swollen lymph nodes are typical both in flu and in lymphoma. The difference lies in persistence. Although flu symptoms resolve in days or weeks, lymphoma symptoms persist and can get worse.

Early detection of lymphoma greatly increases the success of treatment and survival. Awareness, Dr Joshi said, is critical: "Never dismiss persistent, unexplained changes in health status, no matter how minor they appear."

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Early symptoms of lymphoma

The most common lymphoma symptom is painless swelling in at least one of your lymph nodes that are often found in the neck, armpit or groin. Other symptoms are fatigue, frequent fever, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite or drenching night sweats. Less common symptoms may be constant itching without evidence of a rash, or difficulty breathing because the chest nodes are enlarged.

Why it resembles the flu

Lymphoma presents much like an infectious viral disease, such as the flu — fatigue and fever and swollen glands. But this isn’t like the flu, which after a week or two gets better and not worse with rest and over-the-counter treatments. This overlap results in a mistaken sense of security that can postpone seeking medical care.

Recognising the difference

Doctors point to some important distinctions: swollen, infected lymph nodes are typically painful and they decrease in size after a person recovers. Nodes are commonly painless and slowly enlarging in lymphoma. Night sweats and unexplained weight loss are also almost always present, and the combination defines what oncologists call “B-symptoms.” Lymphoma fatigue is a deep and long-lasting fatigue not cured by rest. There is also chronic itching for no reason which is a vague but significant clue.

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Who is at risk?

Lymphoma is seen in all age groups. Hodgkin lymphoma is more common in young adults ages 15 to 35 and non-Hodgkin forms are often seen after age 60. Groups at a higher risk include individuals with impaired immunity (HIV, patients undergoing transplantation, autoimmune disease), family history of lymphoma and persistent infections such as Epstein-Barr virus. Other environmental exposures, as pesticides and industrial pollutants are also being investigated.

Can it be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent lymphoma. But some things — such as reducing risk through practicing safely (avoiding HIV and hepatitis C, ensuring safe transfusions, minimizing chemical exposure) — do matter. A system of using diet, exercise and stress management to build the immune system allows you to better cope with symptoms.

FAQs on Lymphoma Symtpoms

1. What are the early symptoms of lymphoma?

Early symptoms include painless swelling in the lymph nodes, fatigue, frequent fever, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and night sweats.

2. How can I differentiate between flu and lymphoma symptoms?

Flu symptoms resolve in a few days to weeks, whereas lymphoma symptoms persist and worsen over time.

3. Who is at higher risk for developing lymphoma?

Higher risk groups include those with impaired immunity, a family history of lymphoma, and persistent infections like Epstein-Barr virus.

4. Can lymphoma be prevented?

There is no known way to prevent lymphoma, but reducing risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage symptoms.

5. Why is it important to detect lymphoma early?

Early detection significantly increases the success of treatment and improves survival rates.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.