Living with the disorder

A PATIENT'S reaction to a diagnosis of lymphoma is similar to that of any cancer – shock, disbelief, anger, disappointment, fear, resentment. It is important for the doctor to give patients the reassurance that lymphoma is very treatable and a diagnosis of lymphoma does not mean a death sentence.

Patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can often enjoy relatively long periods of time in which they have few, if any, symptoms (for example, if they have indolent disease or are in remission after having treatment). During these times, many patients find that they are able to live normal or near-normal lives.

Many patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma wonder about what changes may be needed to their lifestyle as a result of their condition or its treatment. Any changes that are needed will vary from person to person, since everyone's experience of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is different.

While it is impossible to generalise for all patients, those with indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma often have relatively minor symptoms over long periods of time, sometimes leading to a “watch and wait” approach, to be used until treatment becomes necessary. In comparison, patients with aggressive forms of the disease usually need treatment straight away, although the chances of a cure are higher.

The most important thing for patients, and their family and carers, is to maintain a positive attitude. The doctor and nurse will work with the patient to ensure that they have the most appropriate and best treatment possible, and family, friends and support groups can be a valuable source of information, reassurance and support

A healthy diet, adequate exercise and adequate rest are all important. Patients are also advised to avoid alcohol during treatment.

Some of the treatments for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, can affect the body's immune system and increase the risk of infection. This effect is temporary and during these periods, it might be wise for patients to avoid exposure to large crowds and contact with people who obviously have an illness.

Coping with stress

Despite the fact that many patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma will have a lengthy period of remission or may even be cured, people often feel a sense of indignity and that they have lost control over their lives. In addition, patients are often nervous about the impact of the side effects of treatment on their wellbeing and their ability to live a normal life.

Every patient will approach a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and its treatment in their own way. It may also be helpful to take along a family member, partner or friend to hospital visits, not only to provide support but also to help remember information that is given out and prompt any questions that the patient may have.

Many patients try to reduce feelings of stress by trying to keep their life as normal as possible after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Relaxation techniques can also be of great benefit to patients, as they can be performed in almost any situation and allow people to feel a sense of control over their feelings.

One of the most common questions that patients have when they are diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is how the treatment will affect their ability to have children. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause, in women, menstrual periods to become irregular or stop and, in men, the sperm count to decline.

Although this may be temporary, infertility may be permanent with some treatments. It is therefore important to talk to the lymphoma team about this before treatment begins.

Source: The Star