Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a disease that can be very confusing to those who find themselves afflicted with it. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of commonly asked questions about the disease so that you can better understand exactly what’s going on when it comes to the lymphoma.

Q: What are some of the side effects that those who undergo chemotherapy treatment are subject to?

A: Chemotherapy, while an effective agent for attacking cancerous cells, can cause a host of problems throughout the body. In chemotherapy, the drugs that are administered attack cells that grow rapidly. To that end, you may experience hair loss as the fast-growing hair may be subject to the drugs designed to destroy the tumor. In addition, the drugs are powerful, and can cause you to feel fatigued, with nausea being a common side-effect. Also, there have been many other side effects noted by those who have undergone chemotherapy treatment; they include diarrhea, constipation, excessive bleeding, and a dryness and peeling of the skin and nails. By no means are those symptoms a complete list; everyone’s body reacts differently to chemotherapy drugs and those are just some of the more common effects. However, sometimes chemotherapy can be the best option when it comes to dealing with invasive types of cancer such as lymphoma.

Q: Can lymphoma cause any other problems with my body?

A: Yes, unfortunately. Lymphoma can be responsible for a case of anemia that may develop. It has been known to happen, and one with anemia can expect to feel extremely drowsy and fatigued. Also, since lymphoma affects the immune system to such a degree, you are more likely to be susceptible to infection. Psychological issues may come into play as well, with some patients feeling anxiety and depression, and having trouble sleeping while trying to come to grips with their problem.

Q: Does lymphoma have to occur within the lymph nodes first?

A: No. Lymphoma can begin to grow in several parts of the body. The liver, the stomach, and the brain all have lymph tissue which may cause lymphoma to form. While it occurs most commonly in the lymph nodes, the disease can strike these organs without ever infecting a lymph node.

Q: How can I participate in new treatment studies?

A: On the forefront of the lymphoma fight are those who would give their livelihoods to the chance of a new treatment for the disease. The research studies that are performed are tested on animals before humans, so there is some degree of knowledge when it comes to the drug’s effects on humans. You may find research studies that are available to help in the fight against lymphoma by inquiring with the National Cancer Institute. All of the studies provided by the institute are of scientific merit and you may be able to help win the fight against lymphoma.

Now that you know the answers to some of the more commonly asked questions about lymphoma, you can better understand the disease. Lymphoma is a tricky problem to treat, but with accurate knowledge about the disease, you can see your options more clearly.