The exact signs and symptoms differ from person to person.
However, common symptoms of dying from lymphoma include extreme fatigue, breathing changes, and loss of appetite.
There are many types of lymphoma, with the main subtypes beingHodgkin lymphomaandnon-Hodgkin lymphoma.
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Although there are treatments available for the disease, for some, it will be terminal.
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Whenlymphoma progresses, it can cause changes in blood cell counts, leading to complications.
Anemiaoccurs when there arent enough red blood cells, reducing oxygen supply to cells and organs.
Low platelet counts(thrombocytopenia) can lead to easy bruising and bleeding.
A platelet transfusion might help reduce bleeding.
Since platelets have a short lifespan in the body, this benefit also doesnt last long.
A lack of healthy white blood cells can lead to an infection.
Breathing Changes
Breathlessness is a distressing symptomthat becomes more common in the final stages of lymphoma.
Managing breathlessness may involve medications, oxygen therapy, or interventions to improve anxiety and discomfort.
Nausea, constipation, and difficulty swallowing can also make eating uncomfortable.
B Symptoms
B symptoms are a set of symptoms that may be seen with non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
These symptoms include:
These symptoms can be a sign that the lymphoma is progressing.
Often, the cause of death is considered the lymphoma itself.
Hospice care is a service that specializes in end-of-life care.
The hospice team provides care at home or in a facility.
Hospice care has been shown to improve quality of life at the end stage.
Some people may have pain and confusion.
Hospice care can provide support to the dying person and their caregivers at the end of life.
American Cancer Society.Signs and symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
2019;37(2):144-152. doi:10.1200/JCO.18.00400
