“Lymphoma” is a general term used to describe diseases of the lymphatic system.
Lymphoma symptoms in women can mimic other gynecologic health conditions and hormonal changes.
Although women are slightly less likely to get lymphoma than men, their symptoms may be overlooked.
Illustration by Jake Shi for Verywell Health
This can delay diagnosis and treatment.
This article will describe the signs of lymphoma and discuss how lymphoma symptoms in women differ from men.
Other side effects of lymphoma include:
Some of these symptoms are called B symptoms.
These lumps are usually enlargedlymph nodes.
Some enlarged lymph nodes may be deep in the body, unable to be felt with your fingers.
However, if they are large enough, they can push on organs like the stomach or lungs.
This can make it difficult to eat or breathe.
You should report any new lumps or bumps to your healthcare provider.
Fever
Having a fever is often a sign of infection.
In lymphoma patients, however, fever is considered a B symptom.
The exact reason for fevers in people with lymphoma is unknown.
Therefore, an infection should always be treated in those with cancer to preventsepsis(severe blood infection).
Fatigue
Fatigue is a common side effect of lymphoma.
It can be subtle, or it can be extreme.
Night Sweats
Night sweats are a B symptom that can indicate the severity of some lymphomas.
These night sweats are drenching and can be accompanied by fever and chills.
Most people must change their bedding and clothes due to the intensity of lymphoma night sweats.
Profuse sweating can also happen during the day.
Having night sweats does not mean you have lymphoma.
Always have new and unusual symptoms evaluated.
Uterine Bleeding
Gynecologic lymphomas can result in vaginal bleeding and irregularmenstruation.
Why Is Lymphoma Difficult to Diagnose in Women?
Naturally occurring hormonal changes such aspuberty,pregnancy, andmenopausecan make identifying lymphoma symptoms in women difficult.
Enlarged lymph nodes may go unnoticed or unreported.
Fatigue is an everyday occurrence for many women and is often considered normal.
Lymphoma night sweats can be misinterpreted ashot flashes.
Weight loss can be intended and desired.
This practice can build a trusting relationship between women and their healthcare providers.
Establishing routine care assists your healthcare provider in identifying and diagnosing new symptoms quicker.
Report any enlarged lymph nodes, B symptoms, or new pain immediately to your healthcare provider.
Diagnosis
Since lymphoma has many subtypes, an accurate diagnosis is crucial to receiving proper treatment.
Women and men will undergo the same diagnostic testing.
A surgeon who specializes in gynecology and oncology performs this surgery.
Some people with lymphoma may be matched with aclinical trialin hopes of receiving new and cutting-edge medications.
Not everyone with lymphoma needs treatment.
Summary
Lymphoma is a general term describing diseases of the lymphatic system.
Gynecologic lymphomas can mimic hormonal changes seen with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
Many types of lymphoma are curable.
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