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The World Lymphoma Awareness Day is observed every year on September 15 to raise awareness on lymphoma, which is a form of blood cancer which starts in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system, our immune system is an essential component as it combats infections within the body as well as serves to filter out harmful chemicals in the body. In case the number of white blood cells or lymphocytes become excessively huge, it can develop into lymphoma, impacting lymph nodes, spleen, bone marrow, and other organs. Here are some of the early symptoms of this form of blood cancer.
The swelling of the lymph nodes, many times in the neck, armpits, or groin, is one of the most prevalent and observable indicators of lymphoma. The resultant swollen nodes are usually painless and soft, are wasting away slowly, and are gradually rising in size. Although swollen lymph nodes may also be caused by infection, when it takes more than two weeks and one does not complain of feeling pain or any indication of infection, then it is high time to visit a doctor.
Excessive fatigue may be a warning that is chronic and with no apparent cause, which is manifest after we have had ample rest. In lymphoma, the body burns up the additional energy needed to combat the unnatural proliferation of lymphocytes, leaving you drained. When you are abnormally weak, tired or can hardly perform all the daily routines even though you have slept well, you should not overlook it.
Weight loss that cannot be explained is another typical warning symptom. When you lose more than 10 per cent of your body weight in six months without dieting or exercise, this may be a serious cause of lymphoma or other life-threatening conditions. This loss in weight comes as a consequence of the body becoming metabolically boosted in an effort to combat the cancer cells.
Common and unexplained fevers and the night sweats making your clothes or bedsheet wet can also be symptoms of lymphoma. This is due to the immune reaction of the body to cancerous cells. In case you usually have such fevers or sweating without infection or external cause, it is high time to check it out.
Being an uncommon symptom of the disease, persistent itchy skin or a rash with no obvious cause may indicate lymphoma. This occurs because of the chemicals emitted by the allopathic lymphocytes, and they annoy nerve endings in the skin. In case itching does not disappear even with the use of skincare or allergy measures, it cannot be neglected.
World Lymphoma Awareness Day reminds us to remember that we should be aware of the signs and consult a doctor in time. Awareness will result in earlier diagnosis and better treatment results, given the fact that over a million people in the world live with the disease.
No, swollen lymph nodes may also occur due to infections, but if they persist for more than two weeks without pain, medical advice is necessary.
Early detection increases survival chances, improves treatment effectiveness, and helps patients manage the disease better.
The main signs include swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, sudden weight loss, night sweats, and persistent itching.
World Lymphoma Awareness Day is observed every year on September 15 to spread awareness about lymphoma, a type of blood cancer.