Overview
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects part of the immune system (lymph system). Cells normally found in the lymph nodes and spleen can increase in number and collect in areas where they cause problems. Hodgkin lymphoma is not contagious and is not caused by an injury.
Treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma depends on the stage of the lymphoma and what type of lymphoma you have. It is usually treated with medicines called chemotherapy. You may also need radiation treatments or a procedure called a stem cell transplant. Or you may have targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Your doctor will talk to you about what kind of treatment may be best for you.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
- Eat healthy food. If you do not feel like eating, try to eat food that has protein and extra calories to keep up your strength and prevent weight loss.
- Get some physical activity every day, but do not get too tired.
- Get enough sleep and take time to do things you enjoy. This can help reduce stress.
- Think about joining a support group. Or discuss your concerns with your doctor, counselor, or other health professional.
- If you are vomiting or have diarrhea:
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Choose water and other clear liquids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
- When you are able to eat, try clear soups, mild foods, and liquids until all symptoms are gone for 12 to 48 hours. Other good choices include dry toast, crackers, cooked cereal, and gelatin dessert, such as Jell-O.
- If you have not already done so, prepare a list of advance directives. Advance directives are instructions to your doctor and family members about what kind of care you want if you become unable to speak or express yourself.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have a fever.
- You have abnormal bleeding.
- You have new or worse pain.
- You think you have an infection.
- You have new symptoms, such as a cough, belly pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You are much more tired than usual.
- You have swollen glands in your armpits, groin, or neck.
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter B619 in the search box to learn more about "Hodgkin Lymphoma: Care Instructions".
Current as of: October 25, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.