10 THINGS I’VE LEARNED ABOUT MY HODGKIN LYMPHOMA DIAGNOSIS
It started with a lump. An obscure lump to the naked eye. A lump that was felt whenever my fingers even slightly brushed the area. A lump that eventually led to a cancer diagnosis: Classic Hodgkin Lymphoma. A diagnosis that changed the trajectory of my life.
Ironically, lymphoma is not new to me or my family and friends. In fact, I am the 5th person I know to be diagnosed with Lymphoma within the past five years. So although this diagnosis was new to me personally, it was not new to my world. As I’ve become familiar with this daunting disease, I’ve learned a few things along the way. One being that this disease is prominent in younger age groups which is why I’d like to share my knowledge and awareness of this disease, its symptoms and effects.
Hodgkin Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that is developed in the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system that protects the body from infection and disease. The lymphatic system includes white blood cells called lymphocytes. Some lymphocytes can become cancerous and multiply abnormally, thus forming clusters in the lymph nodes, or glands, throughout the body. These clusters may cause painless lumps throughout the body, especially in the neck, armpit or groin.
Hodgkin Lymphoma is quite common in early adulthood (ages 20-39); however, I personally know teenagers who have also received a Lymphoma diagnosis. Hodgkin Lymphoma is also prominent in late adulthood, such as ages 65 years and older.
Having a parent or sibling with a Hodgkin Lymphoma diagnosis also increases an individual’s risk of developing the disease.
Signs and symptoms may vary, however, as previously noted, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit or groin are a common symptom. Other symptoms I’ve learned of from loved ones include night sweats, fatigue and unbearably, itchy skin.
Lymphoma symptoms can be easily overlooked and I know this firsthand. My Advice: Be persistent and push for answers from your medical doctor.
Multiple lab tests may be conducted to receive a Lymphoma diagnosis, such as CT and PET scans, blood work and a lymph node biopsy.
Hodgkin Lymphoma is a highly curable and treatable type of cancer with more than 80% of patients being cured by current treatment options.*
Hodgkin Lymphoma is just one of the main types of lymphoma - the other being Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, with a plethora of subtypes.
Holistic research and herbalists have found that exposure to certain chemicals and environmental toxins can increase the risk of developing lymphoma. Detoxes are highly recommended to clean the lymphatic system of toxins. An intensive detox should be considered.
Treatment for Hodgkin Lymphoma may include, but is not limited to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation and/or stem cell transplants.
Purple (violet) is the official color associated with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma awareness ribbons, however, lime green is the official color associated with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma or Lymphoma awareness in general.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or medical professional. The information provided on this site is strictly for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you need to seek medical attention, advice, diagnoses or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with your use of the information provided on this site.