Symptoms

Main symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma

Symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include:

• a painless lump or swelling, usually in your neck, armpit or groin - this is the most common symptom
• pain in the glands in your neck, armpit or groin when you drink alcohol
• a high temperature
• night sweats
• shortness of breath
• itchy skin
• sudden weight loss

See a GP if:

Important

Some of these symptoms are common and can be caused by many different conditions.

Having them does not definitely mean you have Hodgkin lymphoma. But it's important to get them checked by a GP.

This is because if they're caused by Hodgkin lymphoma, finding it early means treatment is more likely to be successful.

What happens at your GP appointment

The GP will ask about any symptoms and may feel for any lumps in your neck, armpit and the area at the top of your inner thigh (groin).

You may also be asked to have a blood test.

Referral to a specialist

The GP may refer you to see a specialist in hospital for more tests if they think you have a condition that needs to be investigated.

You may get an urgent referral for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital if the GP thinks you have symptoms that could be cancer. This does not definitely mean you have cancer.

Find out more

• Cancer Research UK: seeing your GP when you have symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma

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