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This disease weakens the immune system, making you more vulnerable to other diseases.
It's that time of year when many of us suffer from seasonal illnesses like colds or the flu.
They are often mild and, if you are in generally good health, usually nothing to worry about. However, if recovery takes longer than usual, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
Feeling unwell for a "prolonged" period of time can signal deadly cancer.
The doctor warned that this is one of the characteristic signs of lymphoma.
Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the cells of the lymphatic system, a network of tubes throughout the body that helps fight infection or disease. Cancer of the lymphatic system can therefore make you especially vulnerable to disease.
"If you've been feeling unwell for a long period of time, I suggest talking to your therapist to find out what may be causing your body to be upset," says the oncologist.
However, he said the disease is "rare" but recommended that you pay attention to how long your illness lasts.
"Keep in mind that lymphoma is quite rare, so statistically the probability of your disease is related to another problem," explained the doctor. “I advise you to judge the duration of your illness by the average time it takes to get a cold or flu. Seven to ten days at this time is normal for most people, although it is possible that feeling tired or cold may last a little longer.'
Having lymphoma can mean that your immune system is weakened. Normally, leukocytes fight infections. If you have lymphoma, cancerous white blood cells (which make up lymphoma) are produced instead of healthy white blood cells.
This can lead to an easier development of infections. Infections may be more serious or last longer than usual. Infections often cause a fever, feeling hot, and shivering.
“Other symptoms depend on where in your body the infection is – for example, you may have an earache, cough, sore throat, pain when urinating or nausea and diarrhoea. See your GP if you are concerned that you are not getting better after a minor infection.'
The oncologist also advised to identify the most common signs of lymphoma.
Because lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, swollen lymph nodes are usually one of the first signs of this type of cancer. Other symptoms include night sweats, itching, weight loss, and fatigue.
When looking for swollen lymph nodes to suggest lymphoma, check the groin, neck, and armpits for severe swelling, as these are the most common places for these symptoms to occur.
"If you have a lump or pain in your chest or abdomen, this could also be a potential sign of lymphoma," advises the doctor.
If you have any symptoms of lymphoma, you should see your doctor.