Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas
Lymphomas can be of two types – Hodgkin’s Lymphomas or non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas. Lymphomas without Reed-Sternberg cells are known as non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas or NHL. Lymphoma is nothing but a cancer that is built in the lymph system of the white blood cells which is known as lymphocytes.
In abnormal conditions, these cells lose their abilities to protect the body from any kind of infection or ailment. The growth of these cells increases to a great extent, and often they create tumors on any part of the body. It generally affects the males more than the females all over the world.
Signs and Symptoms
- You can feel a painless swelling which is caused due to the lymph nodes in your underarm, neck or groin.
- Night sweats
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain in your back or belly
Causes & Risk Factors
The cause of this type of cancer or NHL is still not understood by the experts. However, as per their research, there are some factors that can increase the risk of having NHL. Being male and getting older can be two major risks factors; however, not all the old men have this risk. People who have autoimmune disease or AIDS can have the threat of having NHL in future.
When to see a doctor
If you feel lymph in your body and notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it is better to consult doctors and get their advice.
Treatment and Management
Your age, your overall health condition, the stage of cancer and the type of lymphoma – these are the factors that determine the type of treatment you can have. Chemotherapy is its usual treatment.
