Follicular Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph nodes that can spread to the rest of the body. The cancer has a strong genetic trait as far as occurrence and the genetic defect results in the white blood cells dividing at a much faster rate. The excess white blood cells form tumors. The cancer is normally slow to grow and spread and the disease may be well underway before symptoms begin to materialize. There are several symptoms of follicular lymphoma to look out for.
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Lymph Node Swelling
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One of the early signs of follicular lymphoma involves a swelling of one or more of the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes produce white blood cells that act as our body's defense against viruses and bacteria. As the white blood cells continue to replicate and divide at an increasing rate, the nodes start to swell with the added amount of cells and they can become tender to the touch. The lymph nodes sometimes swell in the event of an infection as well so this doesn't guarantee the presence of lymphoma, but it is a good sign when in conjunction with other ailments.
Weight Loss
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As the tumors spread to other areas of the body, it becomes harder for the healthy cells and tissues to get the nutrients that they need. The body becomes much less efficient at processing food and the organs can begin to starve. Weight loss is a common side effect as a result of the cancer and the loss frequently happens over a brief period of time. If your weight drops quickly without a reasonable explanation such as dietary changes or an increase in exercise, a visit to the physician is recommended.
Internal Discomfort
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The liver and the spleen are two common areas that lymphoma can spread to and as this occurs, they can both begin to swell and become inflamed. The result is a feeling of discomfort internally as the swollen organs are pushing against the tissues surrounding them and this also can lead to a feeling of fullness even if you have an empty stomach. The weight loss can complicate this because as the body mass decreases and the internal organs increase in size, pressure can build up that can be quite uncomfortable and painful.
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