Lymphoma is a blood cancer that manifests in the lymph nodes, which play an important role in the immune system.
Early Signs of Lymphoma that You Need to Know
In the early stages, lymphoma often doesn't cause any specific symptoms. Some signs that may appear include:
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin that are generally painless
- Easily tired and decreased stamina for no apparent reason
- Anemia, which is characterized by paleness, weakness, or dizziness
- Recurrent low-grade fever or night sweats
- Unnatural weight loss
It's important to emphasize that this condition doesn't always indicate lymphoma. Many other conditions can also cause swollen lymph nodes. However, if the lump persists or grows larger, a medical examination is still recommended.
Other Symptoms That May Accompany Lymphoma
In addition to swollen lymph nodes, lymphoma can be accompanied by other complaints that are general and often non-specific, such as:
- Recurrent low-grade fever
- Excessive night sweats
- Weight loss for no apparent reason
- Easily tired
These symptoms are known as systemic symptoms and can appear slowly. Not all lymphoma sufferers experience the same symptoms, so the condition is often detected incidentally.
When Should You See a Doctor?
A medical examination should be carried out if the lymph nodes are swollen:
- Not shrinking after more than 2 weeks
- Getting bigger over time
- Accompanied by systemic symptoms such as prolonged fever or weight loss
- Appears without a clear infectious cause
This step is not to cause concern, but rather as an early detection effort so that any condition can be handled better.
Early Detection Helps Better Treatment
Lymphoma that is detected early generally has a better chance of being treated. Therefore, paying attention to the body's early warning signs is crucial for maintaining long-term health.
For further examination and treatment, you can consult a medical hemato-oncologist, who specializes in treating various conditions related to cancer and blood disorders. Early detection and treatment can provide a clearer picture of your health and determine the most appropriate treatment options.
Article written by Dr. Ryan Ardian Saputra, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Alam Sutera & Tangerang Hospital).