Lymphoma symptoms and signs
Lymphoma symptoms can include swollen glands, chest pain, cough or breathlessness, and extreme tiredness.
Know the symptoms
Lymphoma symptoms vary depending on the type of lymphoma. Not everyone gets the same symptoms, and it’s unlikely that anyone would have all of the symptoms listed here.
Most people with these symptoms won’t have lymphoma. But some people will, and the sooner you’re diagnosed, the sooner you can get the right care.
Even if you only have one symptom, if it’s unexplained, goes on for a long time, or is unusual for you, you should contact your GP.
If you know the type of lymphoma you need information about, go to that type for more specific information:
Non-Hodgkin lymphomas that are fast-growing:
- Burkitt lymphoma
- diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and related high grade lymphomas
- mantle cell lymphoma
- primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL)
Non-Hodgkin lymphomas that are slow-growing:
Common lymphoma symptoms
- swollen glands in the neck, armpit or groin area, or anywhere you have glands (lymph nodes) – usually these aren’t painful
- extreme tiredness – tiredness that doesn’t go away even after rest or sleep (fatigue)
- chest pain, cough or breathlessness if there’s a swelling in your chest
- feeling uncomfortably full or feeling sick caused by a swelling in your stomach area
- itching either widespread or in one place
- bone pain if the lymphoma affects the bone marrow inside your bones
- skin rashes or lumps
- infections that are frequent or last a long time
- unusual bleeding or bruising caused by a low number of platelets – the blood cells that cause the blood to clot.
B symptoms
These three symptoms, called B symptoms, are also symptoms of lymphoma:
- high fever (38°C or higher)
- weight loss of a tenth or more of your previous weight over the past 6 months, when you haven’t been trying to lose weight
- night sweats which drench your nightclothes and bedding.
Whether or not someone has B symptoms is a guide to how much the lymphoma has developed. This helps doctors assess the stage of the lymphoma and decide on the best treatment.
Other lymphoma symptoms
A specific type of lymphoma called Waldenström macroglobulinaemia causes changes in your blood which can lead to:
- headaches and dizziness
- confusion
- nose bleeds
- blurred vision
- kidney problems
- numbness in the legs and feet.
When should I go to the doctor?
If you have only one symptom that you can’t explain, that goes on for a long time, or that’s unusual for you, book an appointment with your GP.
If your GP suspects lymphoma, they will order tests, probably starting with a simple blood test.
If you suddenly feel very unwell at any time, get medical help straight away by calling 999 or going to A&E.
Free blood cancer symptoms guide
Our free blood cancer symptoms guide is a pocket-sized reminder of the symptoms of blood cancer and provides space for you to record any that you might experience. If you need to get checked out, it also includes things to think about before your appointment and questions to ask your doctor.