Understanding Lymphoma—From Diagnosis to Natural Support

Lymphoma is a blood cancer that starts in the immune system’s lymphatic network. With over 880,000 Americans living with or recovering from the disease, awareness is key.

What Is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma arises from lymphocytes—white blood cells critical to immune function. When these cells mutate and grow uncontrollably, they form tumors in lymph nodes and potentially other organs like the spleen, liver, or bone marrow.

Two Primary Types

• Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL): Identified by Reed-Sternberg cells, HL is less common and typically affects younger adults.

• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Represents 90% of cases and includes B-cell, T-cell, and NK-cell variants, each with different growth patterns and treatment responses.

Recognizing Symptoms

Key early signs include painless swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and persistent itchiness. Aggressive forms may rapidly worsen if untreated, while slower forms may go unnoticed for years.

Risk Factors

While the exact cause remains unknown, several factors increase risk:

• Age (15–35 and 50–70 for HL; 65+ for NHL)

• Male sex

• Infections like EBV, HIV, hepatitis C

• Autoimmune diseases

• Chemical exposure (pesticides, hair dyes)

• Genetic immune disorders

Diagnostic Process

Doctors use physical exams, biopsies, imaging, and lab tests to confirm diagnosis and determine the cancer’s stage—ranging from confined lymph nodes to widespread organ involvement.

Treatment Options

• HL: Often curable with chemo, radiation, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplant.

• NHL: Treated based on aggressiveness—indolent forms may be monitored, while aggressive types demand immediate intervention.

Natural Support Approaches

While not a substitute for medical care, the following may support recovery or quality of life:

• Herbs: Reishi mushroom, Prunella vulgaris, Hyunamdan (Korean formula)

• Diet: Green leafy vegetables and citrus fruits are linked to better survival outcomes

• Supplements: Quercetin, carotenoids, and indole-3-carbinol (from cruciferous vegetables)

Always consult your oncologist before beginning any alternative therapies.

Can It Be Prevented?

While not entirely preventable, reducing infection risks, avoiding toxic exposures, and supporting immune health may help lower risk.