request an appointment online.
- Diagnosis & Treatment
- Cancer Types
- Lymphoma
- Lymphoma Symptoms
Get details about our clinical trials that are currently enrolling patients.
View Clinical TrialsLymphoma Symptoms
Lymphoma symptoms vary from person to person. Some individuals may have no noticeable symptoms for a long time. However, recognizing potential warning signs can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.
Early signs and symptoms of lymphoma
These may be subtle and are often the first indications of lymphoma:
- Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, or groin
- Fatigue
- Fevers
- Heavy night sweats
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss (especially 10% or more of body weight over 6 months)
- Dry, itchy skin
- Red rash, especially in skin lymphomas
Late signs and symptoms of lymphoma
As the disease progresses, symptoms may become more severe or widespread:
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
- Feeling of fullness in the abdomen due to an enlarged liver or spleen
- Coughing or shortness of breath, often caused by enlarged lymph nodes in the chest
- Headaches, difficulty concentrating
- Confusion
- Weakness in the arms and/or legs
What does lymphoma feel like?
Lymphoma can cause a variety of symptoms depending on the type and location of the disease. The most common sign is painless swelling of lymph nodes, often in the neck, armpit, or groin, which may feel firm or rubbery. Many people also experience deep fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, unexplained weight loss, intermittent fevers and drenching night sweats. Some may notice persistent itching without a rash, and in rare cases—especially with Hodgkin lymphoma—pain in lymph nodes after drinking alcohol.
If the cancer is in the chest, it might cause chest pain, a cough or trouble breathing. When it affects the abdomen, it can cause swelling, pain or a feeling of fullness. Since these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, it’s important to see a doctor for proper testing and diagnosis.
Other conditions with similar symptoms
These symptoms do not always mean you have lymphoma. However, it is important to discuss any signs with your doctor, since they may signal other health problems. Other conditions that share some of these symptoms include:
- Viral infections (like mononucleosis or HIV)
- Autoimmune disorders (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Tuberculosis or other chronic infections
- Other cancers, including leukemia or solid tumors
- Skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis (for rash and itching)
- Thyroid disorders (for weight changes and fatigue)
Lymphoma risk factors
While lymphoma can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the risk:
- Age: Some types of lymphoma are more common in young adults, while others are more frequent in older adults
- Gender: Certain types, like Hodgkin lymphoma, are slightly more common in males
- Weakened immune system: Due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, or from immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., after an organ transplant)
- Infections: Previous infection with viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), HTLV-1, or hepatitis C
- Family history: A close relative with lymphoma may increase your risk
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Including pesticides, herbicides and solvents
- Autoimmune diseases: Such as celiac disease or Sjögren’s syndrome
- Radiation exposure: Including previous cancer treatment with radiation therapy
When to see a doctor
You should consult a health care provider if you experience:
- Persistent or unexplained swelling of lymph nodes
- Fever, night sweats or weight loss that doesn't improve
- Ongoing fatigue or shortness of breath
- New or worsening neurological symptoms (confusion, weakness)
- Any combination of the above symptoms lasting more than two weeks
While these symptoms do not always indicate lymphoma, early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment.
Some types of lymphoma can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you. Visit our genetic testing page to learn more.
Clinical Trials
MD Anderson patients have access to clinical trials offering promising new treatments that cannot be
found anywhere else.
Becoming Our Patient
Get information on patient appointments, insurance and billing, and directions to and around MD Anderson.
Help #EndCancer
Give Now
Donate Blood
Our patients depend on blood and platelet donations.
Shop MD Anderson
Show your support for our mission through branded merchandise.