When Your Body Speaks
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. This system helps fight infections and keeps you healthy. To help, there's Brukinsa, a prescription medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, such as mantle cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Common Signs of Lymphoma
Swollen lymph nodes
One of the most common signs of lymphoma is swollen lymph nodes. These are small, bean-shaped glands found in your neck, underarms or groin. If they are swollen, you may feel lumps in these areas.
Tiredness
Feeling very tired or weak, even after resting, can be a sign of lymphoma. This tiredness doesn't go away easily and can make everyday tasks hard to do.
Fever
People with lymphoma often get fevers that come and go without a clear reason. These fevers may not be caused by an infection, and they tend to be mild.
Night sweats
Waking up drenched in sweat, even if your room is cool, is a common symptom of lymphoma. These night sweats are often very heavy and can happen multiple times.
Unexplained weight loss
If you are losing weight without trying, this could be a warning sign. Sudden weight loss can be a symptom of many conditions, including lymphoma.
Itchy skin
Some people with lymphoma may have itchy skin that doesn’t seem to get better. The itchiness can be all over the body or just in certain areas.
Shortness of breath
Lymphoma can affect your lungs or chest area, making it hard to breathe. You may feel short of breath even when resting or doing light activities.
Chest pain
If lymphoma spreads to the chest area, it can cause pain or pressure in the chest. This can feel like a tightness or discomfort.
Belly pain or swelling
Lymphoma in the abdomen may cause belly pain or swelling. You might feel full even if you haven't eaten much.
Frequent infections
Since lymphoma affects the immune system, you may find yourself getting sick more often. These infections may last longer and be harder to treat than normal.
Treatments for Lymphoma
The good news is that lymphoma can often be treated. Here are some common treatments:
- Chemotherapy: This is a strong medicine that kills cancer cells. It is one of the main treatments for lymphoma.
- Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells in specific areas of the body.
- Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs to focus on specific parts of cancer cells. These drugs block the growth of the cancer cells while causing less damage to normal cells.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy boosts your immune system to help it fight cancer more effectively.
- Stem cell transplant: In some cases, doctors may suggest a stem cell transplant. This helps restore healthy blood cells after high doses of chemotherapy or radiation.
Brukinsa for Lymphoma
Brukinsa is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of blood cancers, such as mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). It works by blocking a specific protein called Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), which helps cancer cells grow and survive. By inhibiting this protein, Brukinsa helps slow down the growth of cancer cells and may improve survival in patients with these conditions. It is taken orally and is often used when other treatments have not been effective.
Getting Ahead
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to talk to a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of recovery.
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