Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms

Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms are typically non-specific and share many characteristics with other illnesses, such as a cold, the flu, other types of respiratory infection and other types of blood cancer. The Hodgkin lymphoma stages may not cause any symptoms.

When symptoms do occur, a common early sign of Hodgkin lymphoma is swelling in one or more lymph nodes, usually in the neck. There are over 500 lymph nodes throughout the body, all connected through a network of lymph vessels. Clusters of lymph nodes can be found in the neck, armpits, groin, abdomen, pelvis and chest. Lymph nodes circulate white blood cells. When the concentration of white blood cells increases as part of the body's immune response to a virus or infection, enlarged lymph nodes may result. In some cases, the swelling is caused by another condition, like cancer.

Common symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarms or groin
• Intermittent fevers
• Drenching night sweats
• Fatigue, or feeling tired all the time
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Feeling of fullness
• Rash or itchy skin
• Unusual bleeding, such as chronic nosebleeds