Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in the infection-fighting lymphocytes of the immune system. Lymphoma cancer cells can grow in any part of the lymphatic system, including the spleen, the bone marrow, thymus, lymph nodes, or any other part of the body. Lymphoma is responsible for changing and expanding lymphocytes uncontrollably. There are two types of lymphoma, which are commonly known as non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma.
Both non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma include a variety of lymphocyte cells. Each form of lymphoma develops at a distinct rate and responds to treatment in a different way. Compared to other types of cancers, lymphoma is easier to treat, and the prognosis depends on the stage and type of cancer. Your doctor can assist you in determining the best treatment based on your illness's type and stage.
The lymphatic system comprises lymph nodes (lymph glands), thymus gland, bone marrow, and spleen. Lymphoma can affect any of these organs, the lymphatic system as a whole, or even other organs in the body.
Risk Factors
● Age: Depending on the type of lymphoma, some people are more prone to it than others. While some types are more commonly found in younger individuals, some others are more common in people over 50.
● Gender: Generally men are more prone to lymphoma than women.
● Immune System: Lymphoma is more likely in those with immune system illnesses or who take immune-suppressing medications.
● Infections: There’s a greater risk of lymphoma cancer developing as a result of the onset of certain infections, such as Helicobacter pylori infection.
Symptoms
Lymphoma symptoms are similar to those of viral infections like the common cold. They do, however, usually last for a longer amount of time. It is also to be noted that some people are asymptomatic.
Swelling of the lymph nodes may be noticed by others. Swelling most commonly affects the neck, groyne, belly, and armpits.
Swellings are frequently painless. If the swollen glands press against organs, bones, or other structures, they might become uncomfortable. Lymphoma is sometimes confused with back pain.
Lymph nodes can also expand as a result of infections like the common cold. The swelling in lymphoma does not go away. If the swelling is caused by an infection, it is also more likely to be accompanied by pain. Anyone who notices swollen glands that do not improve in a reasonable amount of time should see their doctor.
Other signs and symptoms of both forms of lymphoma are:
● A persistent fever that is not caused by infection.
● Night sweats, fever, and chills.
● Weight reduction and appetite suppression.
● Unusual and odd itching.
● After drinking alcohol, you may have chronic exhaustion or a lack of energy, as well as pain in your lymph nodes.
Prevention
Because the aetiology of lymphoma isn't always evident, it's tough to prevent it. The majority of characteristics linked to a higher risk of Hodgkin lymphoma, such as family history or race, are also unavoidable. However, because lymphoma begins in the lymphatic system, conditions that weaken the immune system can contribute to lymphoma's growth. To maintain a healthy immune system, do the following:
● Quit smoking
Smoking causes the body to take longer to fight infections and repair wounds. Quitting smoking is a crucial step in preventing malignancies like Hodgkin lymphoma. The earlier you quit smoking, the earlier you can heal. Consult your doctor about the various methods available to assist you in quitting successfully.
● Reduce Exposure to Pesticides and Formaldehyde
Pesticides and formaldehyde are two of the most harmful substances for your body to be exposed to. Natural gas, oil, wood, and tobacco all produce formaldehyde as a byproduct of combustion. It's also found in a wide range of household items, including foam insulation, wallpaper, and paint. Avoid direct contact by wearing masks, gloves, goggles, and protective clothes. Proper ventilation might also aid in lowering your exposure.
● Maintain Good Eating Habits
The eating habits of a group with NHL and a group without NHL were compared in two recent studies published in June. In a study conducted in the United States, people who consumed the most veggies were at a 42 percent lower risk than those who consumed the least. According to an Italian study, people who ate the most veggies had a 51 percent lower risk of heart disease than those who ate the least. In this study, eating more fruit appeared to lessen risk as well.
Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables has also been associated with a lower risk of NHL in previous research. Researchers believe that this is due to the abundance of antioxidants and natural plant chemicals in these diets, which protect DNA from free radicals and carcinogens.
● Start an Immune System-friendly Diet
Our diet may also influence NHL risk by affecting our immune system. Animal protein, saturated fat, fried red meat, and dairy foods have all been associated with an increased risk of NHL, while fish consumption has been connected to a lower risk.
● Maintaining a Healthy Body Mass Index
Obesity, associated with a BMI of 30 or higher, increases your risk of acquiring cancers such as Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating nutritious food can all help to lower your chance of developing a variety of health problems.
● Reduce Exposure to Industrial Chemicals
Exposure to high quantities of industrial chemicals, solvents, weed killers, and insecticides may increase the risk of lymphoma. Hair dyes may also pose a risk, though modern hair dyes appear to be safer than older ones (pre-1980s). Working in a job that exposes you to high quantities of these chemicals (such as crop farming, hairdressing, painting and decorating, or the rubber manufacturing business) may increase your risk of lymphoma by a small amount. However, in the face of limited evidence, scientists are still unsure whether these chemicals can be linked to a higher risk of lymphoma.
Looking for a Lymphoma Oncologist in Delhi?
If you are looking for a lymphoma oncologist in Delhi, you can consult Dr. PK Das. Dr. PK Das, cancer specialist, is one of the best oncologists in Delhi, NCR, with close to 20 years of experience in treating cancer holistically. You can book an appointment with him at Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, where he works as the Senior Medical Oncologist, specializing in both medical and haemato oncology.
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