Lymphoma, non-Hodgkin - Symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

The most common symptom of non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a painless swelling in a lymph node, usually in the neck, armpit or groin.

The swelling is caused by an excess of affected lymphocytes (white blood cells) collecting in a lymph node (also called lymph glands). Lymph nodes are pea-sized lumps of tissue found throughout the body. They contain white blood cells that help to fight against infection.

However, it is highly unlikely that you have non-Hodgkin lymphoma if you have swollen lymph nodes, as these glands often swell as a response to infection. Read more information about lumps and swellings.

Other symptoms

Some people with non-Hodgkin lymphoma also have other more general symptoms. These can include:

• night sweats
• unexplained weight loss
• a high temperature (fever)
• persistent tiredness or fatigue
• difficulty recovering from infections or developing infections more often
• persistent itching of the skin all over the body

Other symptoms will depend on where in the body the enlarged lymph glands are. For example, if the abdomen (tummy) is affected, you may have abdominal pain or indigestion.

When to seek medical advice

See your GP if you have any of the above symptoms, particularly if you have persistently swollen glands with no other signs of infection.

While the symptoms are unlikely to be caused by non-Hodgkin lymphoma, it is best to get them checked out.