Causes of Lymphoma

Lymphoma refers to a cancer that affects the lymphatic system in our body. The lymphatic system carries the lymph fluid and the white blood cells to the various parts of the body. When the body is affected by lymphoma, the cells in the body grow out of control, which causes the growth of tumors. Although doctors are not very certain about the causes of lymphoma, it is believed that the cancer is caused by the mutation in some genes in the body. These genes are called “oncogenes”, and when they suffer a mutation, they actually allow the normal cells to grow in an uncontrolled manner. In addition to the genes in our body, some external factors are also believed to cause or trigger lymphoma in the body. For example, if someone is exposed to certain chemicals in particular solvents, pesticides or even herbicides, then there is a high chance of that person suffering from Lymphoma. People who drink water that has been contaminated with certain nitrates are also likely to be affected by lymphoma.

A person who uses drugs on a regular basis may also fall prey to lymphoma, since regular intake of drugs can affect the immune system. Similarly, people who suffer from diseases that affect the immune system and weaken the body are also likely to suffer from lymphoma. Therefore, a person suffering from AIDS is more than likely to suffer from Lymphoma. People who are affected by autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus are also likely to suffer from lymphoma. In addition, conditions such as stomach ulcers or gastritis, which are caused by the bacteria H. pyelori, also increase the chances of developing lymphoma.

Usually one of the first signs of lymphoma is the appearance of a lump or a swollen gland. The lump is usually painless and the swollen gland is usually in the abdomen, groin area or even in the underarm. Sometimes people also notice red patches on their skin. In addition, people also suffer from breathlessness and cough. Pain in the abdomen, nausea and in some cases, vomiting, are other possible symptoms of lymphoma. In some cases the appearance of symptoms, referred to as B symptoms, can also indicate lymphoma. In such cases, the patient suffers from weight loss that cannot be explained, which is accompanied by sweats at night. Unexplained fever that comes and goes is another indication; this fever usually affects the patient in the evening.