The impact non-Hodgkin lymphoma has on a patient depends largely on the type of the disease and the type of treatment prescribed. Because lymphoma affects B cells or T cells, it may make it difficult for a patient to fight off infection.
Some cases of indolent, or slow-growing, lymphoma require only active surveillance and no immediate treatment. Other cases require aggressive treatment, such as high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. These types of treatments often cause side effects, such as nausea, weight loss and a compromised immune system. Because lymphoma affects the lymphatic system, another symptom of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that may occur is lymphedema, which is swelling caused by a buildup of lymphatic fluid.