Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, can sometimes begin with symptoms that resemble common infections, making it difficult to recognise in its early stages. On World Lymphoma Awareness Day, medical oncologist Dr Renu Mishra highlighted the importance of paying attention to symptoms that persist, worsen or occur together. In India, conditions such as dengue, tuberculosis and seasonal viral infections frequently cause fever, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue, which can sometimes lead people to dismiss symptoms that require further evaluation.

One important warning sign is a lymph node that remains enlarged after an infection has resolved. Dr Mishra said a painless lump in the neck, armpit, groin or above the collarbone that continues to grow or does not disappear should be medically assessed. Another concern is fever without a clear explanation, particularly when it repeatedly comes and goes over several days or weeks without an identifiable infection. Persistent fever should not simply be treated repeatedly without investigating its underlying cause.

The oncologist also pointed to drenching night sweats as a symptom that should not be overlooked, especially when they occur alongside fever or unexplained weight loss. Unlike ordinary sweating caused by warm weather, these episodes can leave a person's clothes or bedding soaked. Unexplained weight loss is another warning sign. Dr Mishra noted that losing 10% or more of body weight over six months without deliberately changing diet or exercise can be significant and should be discussed with a doctor.

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Persistent fatigue is another symptom to watch. While tiredness after an infection is common and generally improves with recovery, fatigue that continues for weeks, particularly when accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, fever or weight loss, warrants evaluation. Lymphoma can also affect lymph nodes inside the chest, meaning it may not always cause a visible lump. This can lead to symptoms such as a persistent cough, breathlessness or chest pressure, which may initially be mistaken for a respiratory infection. The seventh warning sign is abdominal swelling or early fullness.

Lymphoma involving lymph nodes or organs in the abdomen may cause swelling, discomfort, reduced appetite or a sensation of feeling full after eating only a small amount. Dr Mishra cautioned that persistent symptoms should be assessed rather than being repeatedly attributed to acidity or indigestion. Dr Mishra stressed that having any one of these symptoms does not mean a person has  lymphoma, as infections remain a much more common cause of enlarged lymph nodes. However, concern increases when symptoms persist, progressively worsen or appear together. Because there is no routine screening test for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, awareness of unusual or persistent symptoms and timely medical evaluation can be important.
 

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