This page is meant as an educational resource only. For professional advice, please consult your doctor.
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Overview
What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which helps defend your body against infection.
- It includes a variety of subtypes, each with its own unique features.
Who is affected?
- NHL can affect both children and adults but is more common in older adults.
- Slightly more frequent in men than women.
How is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Classified?
Indolent vs Aggressive Lymphoma
- Indolent NHL (Slow-Growing):
- These types develop slowly, and symptoms can be very mild for years.
- People may not need treatment right away and can sometimes be monitored (“watch and wait”).
- Examples: Follicular lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma.
- Aggressive NHL (Fast-Growing):
- These types grow quickly and usually cause symptoms sooner.
- They often require prompt treatment, but can sometimes be cured.
- Examples: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), Burkitt lymphoma.
Why does it matter?
- Whether your NHL is indolent or aggressive helps your doctor decide on the best treatment plan and gives an idea of what to expect for the future.
Causes and Risk Factors
Why does it happen?
- NHL occurs when white blood cells called lymphocytes grow abnormally.
- Often, the exact cause is not known.
Are certain people more at risk?
- Weakened immune system (due to certain illnesses or medications)
- Some infections (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus, Helicobacter pylori)
- Family history of lymphoma
- Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation
Symptoms
What are the common signs and symptoms?
- Painless, swollen lymph nodes (neck, armpit, groin)
- Fever and night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling tired
- Persistent cough or chest pain (if lymph nodes in the chest are involved)
- Abdominal pain or swelling
Diagnosis
How is it diagnosed?
- Your doctor will ask about your health history and do a physical examination.
What tests are commonly done?
- Blood tests
- Lymph node biopsy (removing a small sample for testing)
- Imaging tests (CT, PET, or MRI scans)
- Bone marrow biopsy (sometimes needed)
Treatment Options
What are the treatment choices?
- Chemotherapy: Main treatment for many types.
- Immunotherapy: Medicines that help your immune system attack the cancer (e.g., rituximab).
- Radiation therapy: High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy: Drugs aimed at specific features of cancer cells.
- Stem cell transplant: For some patients with aggressive or relapsed NHL.
- Surgery: Rarely, to remove or biopsy lymph nodes.
Are there advanced or investigational therapies?
- CAR T-cell therapy (specialized immune cell treatment)
- New targeted therapies in clinical trials
Dietary Advice
Specific dietary recommendations:
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- If your immune system is low, avoid raw or undercooked foods.
Nutrition tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Small, frequent meals can help with nausea.
- High-calorie snacks may help if you’re losing weight.
Supplements:
- Always ask your doctor before taking supplements—some may interact with treatments.
- Your care team may recommend vitamins if needed.
Food safety or drug-food interactions:
- Practice good food hygiene.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any foods to avoid with your specific medicines (for example, grapefruit).
Living with the Condition
Managing daily activities:
- Rest as needed, and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
- Take things at your own pace.
Exercise, lifestyle, and emotional well-being:
- Light exercise can boost energy and mood.
- Seek support from friends, family, or support groups.
- Counseling can help manage emotional stress.
Tips for long-term monitoring and follow-up:
- Keep all follow-up appointments.
- Let your healthcare team know about new symptoms.
- Track how you’re feeling in a notebook or app.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between indolent and aggressive NHL?
Indolent types grow slowly and might not need immediate treatment. Aggressive types grow fast and need prompt treatment, but may be curable.
2. Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma curable?
Some aggressive types can be cured, especially with early treatment. Indolent types may be controlled for many years.
3. Will I lose my hair during treatment?
Some treatments can cause hair loss. Your doctor will tell you what to expect.
4. Can I work or go to school during treatment?
Many people can, but you may need to rest or adjust your schedule.
5. What if I get a fever during treatment?
Contact your doctor immediately—fevers can be serious if your immune system is low.
Call to Action
When to contact a doctor:
- New or worsening symptoms (fever, swelling, cough)
- Feeling very unwell
- Side effects that are hard to manage
Other Information Resources
Remember:
Understanding your type of NHL—whether indolent or aggressive—helps guide your care and gives you and your healthcare team the information needed to create the best plan for you. Stay informed, and never hesitate to reach out with questions!