A cancer diagnosis is often considered a death sentence, and in most cases, it is very much so. Naturally, anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer goes through extreme mental and physical turmoil, as they have to bear the deadly disease's attacks, but also the excruciatingly painful and exhausting treatment to fight cancer. However, there are some cancers that are comparatively easier to deal with, a diagnosis of cancer like lymphoma is another ball game and can take over your entire life.
In line with the theme of World Lymphoma Day 2023, the team of OnlyMyHealth reached out to Dr Ajay Singh, Lead Medical Oncologist, Sunrise Oncology Centre, to understand the physiological and emotional challenges experienced by lymphoma patients and shed light on measures to overcome these hurdles.
Physiological Challenges Of Lymphoma
“Patients with lymphoma often face several physiological challenges, which can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease.” shared Dr Singh. His comments were supported by a study published by the British Medical Association which assessed 90 patients, 32 months after they received a diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Their findings revealed distressing facts about life after seeking treatment for lymphoma. Most of the patients were free of disease and did not require any follow-up treatment, yet they reported suffering from a lack of energy, loss of libido, irritability, tiredness, continued impairment of thinking, and disturbance of short-term memory. More shockingly, many patients also suffered from anxiety and depression after being diagnosed, and failure to return to work and a persistent lack of interest in leisure activities were also reported by some of the assessed patients.
Also Read: From Night Sweats To Pain: Expert Lists Warning Signs Of Lymphoma You Should Watch Out For
Creating awareness about common physiological challenges that Lymphoma patients have to unfortunately go through, Dr Singh listed:
- Fatigue: Lymphoma patients frequently experience extreme fatigue, which can interfere with daily activities and reduce overall quality of life. This fatigue can result from the disease itself, as well as the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
- Infections: Lymphoma can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Recurrent or severe infections are common and may require hospitalisation or the use of prophylactic antibiotics.
- Swelling and Lymphedema: Enlarged lymph nodes or tumours can cause swelling in various parts of the body. In some cases, this can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterised by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid and tissue swelling.
- Anaemia: Lymphoma can lead to a decrease in red blood cell production, resulting in anaemia. Anaemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Some lymphomas may affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain.
- Side Effects of Treatment: An invasive malignancy like cancer also requires invasive treatment that has depressing side effects. Chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments can lead to side effects like nausea, hair loss, and weakened immunity.
Emotional Impact Of Lymphoma
Staring death in the face is in itself a terrifying experience. But combining it with the devastating impact of symptoms and treatment on the physical health of a lymphoma patient is bound to have mental and emotional repercussions too. “Emotional challenges faced by lymphoma patients can be significant,” commented Dr Singh as he listed the emotional impact of lymphoma:
Also Read: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Lymphoma Cancer
- Fear and Anxiety: A lymphoma diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming. Patients may experience fear and anxiety about the disease, its progression, and the uncertainty of the future.
- Depression: Many patients grapple with feelings of sadness and depression due to the physical and emotional toll of the disease. Side effects of treatments can also contribute to depressive symptoms.
- Isolation: Lymphoma treatments, especially during active phases, may require isolation to minimise infection risk. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and social withdrawal.
- Body Image Concerns: Physical changes resulting from lymphoma or its treatments, such as hair loss or weight changes, can impact body image and self-esteem.
- Grief and Loss: Patients may experience grief and a sense of loss over their pre-illness life, including activities, relationships, and roles they can no longer participate in or fulfil.
- Financial Stress: The cost of lymphoma treatment and potential loss of income due to illness can create financial strain, causing additional emotional distress.
Learning To Live with Lymphoma
The challenges mentioned above are enough to show that fighting lymphoma is not easy. It is unfair but if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with this lymphatic cancer, you have a painful journey ahead of you. But with a will to fight and survive you can, and will triumph over any challenge thrown at you in life.
Dr Singh underscored, “Addressing and overcoming the challenges faced by lymphoma patients requires a multifaceted approach involving medical, psychological, and social support. Building a strong support network and collaborating closely with healthcare providers is key to addressing and overcoming these challenges effectively.” To ease the pain of lymphoma patients, he shared a few strategies that are bound to help you on this tough road ahead:
- Medical Treatment: Effective management of lymphoma involves consulting with healthcare professionals, adhering to treatment plans, and managing symptoms. Regular communication with your medical team is crucial.
- Supportive Care: Seek supportive care services, such as palliative care or pain management, to address symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Psychological Support: Consider therapy or counselling to address emotional challenges like anxiety and depression. Support groups for cancer patients can also provide a sense of community and understanding.
- Nutrition and Exercise: Maintain a healthy lifestyle to the best extent possible. Proper nutrition and regular exercise can help combat fatigue and improve overall well-being.
- Stress Reduction Techniques: Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety and improve mental health.
- Social Support: Lean on friends and family for emotional support, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed. Stay connected with loved ones to combat isolation.
World Lymphoma Day is a reminder that you are not alone in your lymphoma journey. Do not hesitate to connect with friends, family, and support groups. Sharing your feelings and experiences can help you deal with the emotional burdens of a lymphoma diagnosis and treatment. You should also surround yourself with positivity, whether through uplifting books, music, or inspirational stories of lymphoma survivors.
Saying that you will pull through and be positive is easier said than done. Remember, there is no right way to deal with this morbid disease. So you do you and do not care what anybody thinks. Just as long as you are consistent with your efforts, and do not give up hope, you will be just fine. Every day is a step forward in your battle against lymphoma, and there is hope for a brighter future.
Study Source: Psychological problems associated with diagnosis and treatment of lymphomas. I: Retrospective study
