The malignancy of the lymphatic system is known as lymphoma. There are two types of lymphomas; one is Hodgkin’s lymphoma and the other is non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is also categorized into different subtypes depending upon the cell of origin as well as the characteristics of the cells.
The prognosis, type of treatment that needs to be given to the person, the response the patient gives to a certain type of treatment, and the requirement of the early treatment are determined based on the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma subtype.
The main triggers for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma include the following:
1. Causes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
The accurate causes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are not clearly known. But there are many medical conditions that are linked to the risk of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Some of the prospective causes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma among the individuals are deficiencies related to the immune system of the person that have been inherited.
Individuals with conditions like Klinefelter’s syndrome, which is a genetic condition seen in the males that occur due to an additional x chromosome, and Down’s syndrome are more susceptible to this disease.
The treatment that a person receives for Sjogren’s syndrome, an immune disorder that involves the mucous membranes dryness, systemic lupus erythematosus, and rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute to the disease.
An individual who is allergic to certain components gluten, which is a protein that is obtained from grains is processed, can also be a victim. Inflammatory bowel diseases and the treatment the person receives for diseases like Crohn’s disease can also be one of the causes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
If a person has a family member who has suffered from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in the past has a higher chance of being a sufferer.
Chronic condition of the skin known as psoriasis, which is a result of an immune system that is overactive, can fuel the condition
2. Additional causes
Additionally, there are other factors that cause the development of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which include the following:
- Consumption of alcohol
- Exposure to ultraviolet light
- The consumption of a diet that is rich in meat products and fat
- Drinking water containing high levels of nitrates
- Early exposure to radiation and chemotherapy which is resorted to as a treatment to an early diagnosis of cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic that are being treated by using tumor necrosis factor agents.
- Exposure to nuclear testing and accidents or even the radiation leaks that occur underground.
If one notices the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult a doctor so that treatment can be provided before the condition aggravates.
3. Symptoms
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight loss
- Cough
- Swollen glands, often in the armpits, neck, or groin that are not necessarily painful
