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Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Care Instructions

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Overview

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a type of cancer that begins in the lymph system. White blood cells called lymphocytes grow abnormally and out of control. The cells can form lumps of tissue called tumors.

NHL may occur in a single lymph node, a group of lymph nodes, or an organ. It can spread to almost any part of the body. This can include the liver, bone marrow, and spleen.

NHL is not contagious and is not caused by an injury.

Treatment for NHL depends on the type and stage of the lymphoma. It is usually treated with medicines called chemotherapy. Your doctor may also give you medicines that work on the body's immune system (immunotherapy). You may also need radiation treatments or a procedure called a stem cell transplant. 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).
  • You have sudden chest pain and shortness of breath, or you cough up blood.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • You have a fever or chills. Or you may be sweating.
  • 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.
  • You have signs of a blood clot, such as:
    • Pain in your calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
    • Redness and swelling in your leg or groin.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any symptoms that the cancer has come back or spread. These symptoms include:

  • New lumps.
  • Bone pain.
  • Chest pain.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Belly pain.
  • Headaches that don't go away.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter G432 in the search box to learn more about "Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Care Instructions".

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.