The 4 most feared signs of neck lymphoma

The most feared signs of neck lymphoma include painless enlargement of lymph nodes, persistent low-grade fever, significant weight loss and frequent fatigue. These warning signs may indicate the development of the disease and require early medical examination and diagnosis.

1) Painless enlargement of lymph nodes

A common sign of neck lymphoma is swollen lymph nodes in the neck. This swelling is usually painless, but when you touch it, you will find that the swollen lymph nodes are hard, irregular, and immobile. If the swollen lymph nodes do not go away for more than two weeks or gradually increase in size, you should pay close attention. It is recommended to go to the hospital in time to confirm the cause through imaging tests (such as ultrasound or CT) and lymph node biopsy.

2) Persistent low-grade fever

Persistent low-grade fever (i.e., body temperature maintained between 37.3°C and 38°C) is one of the early symptoms experienced by most patients with malignant lymphoma. This low-grade fever is often accompanied by night sweats or increased sweating at night, and is often different from infectious low-grade fever, and there is no clear site of infection. For this symptom, diagnosis can be made through blood routine tests, serological tests, or bone marrow puncture.

3) Significant weight loss

If you lose more than 10% of your weight in a short period of time without intentional weight loss, it may be a sign that cancer cells are consuming too much energy in the body. Malignant lesions of the lymphatic system can affect metabolic function, causing the patient to lose appetite or lose nutrients quickly. If this happens, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. You may need to undergo PET-CT to assess the spread of cancer and systemic lesions.

4) Frequent fatigue

Extreme fatigue that cannot be relieved even after rest may also be caused by anemia or decreased immune function caused by lymphoma. Cancer of the lymphatic system often affects the normal production of hematopoietic cells, reducing the body's oxygen transport capacity, leading to fatigue symptoms. In response to this phenomenon, the doctor may arrange a blood test and a comprehensive assessment of the patient's immune function.

If the above symptoms occur, be sure to pay attention and seek medical attention as soon as possible for early diagnosis and treatment. Neck lymphoma is not uncontrollable, and early intervention can significantly improve the treatment effect. Once diagnosed, targeted treatment can be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, such as chemotherapy (such as ABVD regimen), targeted therapy (such as rituximab) or radiotherapy. At the same time, pay attention to a balanced diet and regular work and rest to improve the body's immunity and overall health level during treatment.