What Are the Symptoms of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?

You may not notice signs of lymphoma in its early stages. In fact, some lymphomas are found through a chest X-ray taken for other reasons.

When lymphoma does cause symptoms, they may be mistaken for problems caused by smoking. For example, some early signs of lymphoma include coughing or shortness of breath, especially while exercising. The signs and symptoms of lymphoma are different, depending on where the disease is in your body. Here are some of the common signs and symptoms of lymphoma.

• Swelling (usually painless) in lymph nodes in your neck, groin, underarm, or above your collarbone

• Swelling in your head and arms, called superior vena cava syndrome

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain

• Coughing or trouble breathing

• Headaches

• Trouble thinking or moving parts of your body

• Itchy red or purple lumps under the skin

Lymphoma may also cause more generalized symptoms. The presence of these symptoms may indicate that the lymphoma is more widespread and the outlook is not as good.

• Fatigue

• Unexplained fever

• Severe itchiness

• Recurring infections

• Unusual sweating, especially at night

• Unexplained weight loss

Remember: These symptoms may be caused by lymphoma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to check with a doctor to be sure.