Hodgkin's Disease - Symptoms

Some of the early symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma include fever, weight loss, heavy sweating at night, and itching. Some patients report that drinking alcoholic beverages may cause pain in the infected area.

As lymph nodes swell, they may push on other nearby structures. This pressure may also cause pain and other kinds of discomfort. For example, nerves may be pinched, causing pain and loss of muscular control. Pressure on the ureters, the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, can cause kidney failure. Pressure on veins in the face, neck, and legs can reduce blood flow and cause swelling in those areas. Pressure on the spinal cord can cause paralysis of the legs. Pressure on the upper respiratory (breathing) system can cause wheezing and shortness of breath. Abnormal tissue growth in the liver can cause an accumulation of toxins (poisons), resulting in jaundice. Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes. It is a common sign of liver disease.

As Hodgkin's disease worsens, the lymphatic system becomes less effective in fighting off infections. Patients with the disease are more likely to develop infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and other types of germs.