Did you know there are an estimated 879,242 people living with, or in remission from, lymphoma in the US? When we're aware of lymphoma, we can spot warning signs sooner and go to the doctor faster.
There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
HL shows up in the neck, armpits, and chest. It tends to follow a more expected pattern, which makes it simpler for doctors to spot and treat compared to NHL.3
NHL is more like the big umbrella term. It includes a bunch of different types, kind of like a bunch of ice cream flavors under one brand. Some common subtypes include:
These are several examples, but there are actually many more subtypes that are unique and have their own treatment approaches.
There are many types of lymphoma, and the disease can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the risk.* These include:
📅 Age
Lymphoma is more common in older adults, although it can occur at any age.
⚧️ Gender
Some types of lymphoma are more common in men, while others may affect women more.
🦠 Weak Immune System
People with weak immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, or those who have undergone organ transplants have a higher risk.
👨👩👧 Family History
Having a close relative (e.g., a parent, sibling, or child) with lymphoma may slightly increase the risk.
😷 Other
Exposure to certain chemicals or infections.
Swollen lymph nodes
These are bumps under your skin in places like your neck, armpits, or groin. They don’t usually hurt.
Fatigue
Feeling tired or weak even after rest.
Night sweats
Sweating a lot at night, so much that your clothes or bed sheets get wet.
Losing weight
Losing weight without trying and not feeling hungry as usual.
Pain
Some people might feel pain where their lymph nodes are swollen or in their stomach.
Finding lymphoma early may make treatment easier and more effective, which is why it is important to regularly schedule appointments with your doctor.
Early detection can come from symptoms or when your doctor does a check-up. Blood tests can sometimes catch signs of lymphoma before symptoms appear. This means the doctors will take a small sample of blood to see if they find signs of an infection or anything strange.
There are other ways doctors can spot lymphoma, including:
Knowing who you’re seeing at the doctor’s office may help you ask the right questions.
Hematologists
focus on problems with your blood and parts of your body that help produce blood.
Oncologists
diagnose and treat all kinds of cancer.
Hematologist-Oncologist
is a doctor who specializes in treating cancers of the blood.
After receiving news of a lymphoma diagnosis, it’s important to discuss with your doctor what treatment options may be right for you. During your appointment, ask as many questions as possible and bring a supportive friend or family member to take notes for you.
Some lymphoma treatment options include:
By participating in clinical research, you have the opportunity to try new potential treatments for lymphoma. They are especially important for communities of color, who have historically been left out of treatment decisions in the past.
Here are a few benefits of participating:
Wynn has survived late stage lymphoma twice through chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. He is sharing his story to let other people know that the “journey is much bigger than the diagnosis.”
Confused about the difference between Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
This article may help.
Are you or a loved one living with lymphoma?
Find online chat rooms, caregiver support, podcasts and more.
Coping with cancer can be emotionally draining.
These resources can help you prioritize your mental health.
Our NOWINCLUDED cancer community is here to support you and anyone you love. If you’re not already a member, join today! It’s free.
