Treatment for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is done with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy. Its goal is to increase production of the body's defense cells, eliminate the tumor and stop the production of cancer cells.
Chemotherapy sessions last on average 4 hours where the individual receives oral and injectable medications, it can cause side effects such as nausea and hair loss. Learn about other side effects of chemotherapy and how to relieve each one.
In the most severe cases, it is not enough to only perform chemotherapy, and then radiotherapy is indicated, which consists of emitting electromagnetic waves at the tumor site in order to destroy it. Immunotherapy consists of the administration of sera and vaccines that strengthen the immune system so that it can overcome the tumor. Unfortunately this therapy is not yet available in the treatments offered by SUS.
Know what the chances of cure of this lymphoma are.
Remedies indicated
For high-grade tumors located in only one region the oncologist may prescribe a combination of medications and exposure to electromagnetic waves because this appears to be more efficient at eliminating the tumor. One of the options is taking medications such as cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone, followed by radiation therapy.
The monoclonal antibody rituximab has also been shown to have a good effect against this tumor, even in cases of aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, however the treatment should be individualized because it should take into account the age, general health status and tumor type.
Food against cancer
The most suitable foods to combat cancer are the biological ones, which do not contain agrochemicals and therefore have more antioxidants and vitamins that help to improve the whole functioning of the body. Processed foods such as ham, sausage, salami and bacon should be avoided, as well as processed soft drinks and juices daily by eating brown bread, lean meats, vegetables, fruits and good sources of fat such as tuna, salmon, sardines and almonds. example. See more examples of how to match food to fight cancer.
Healthy lifestyle
It is also important to drink plenty of water, get a good night's sleep, and stay active, even for a 10- or 15-minute walk because it stimulates blood circulation and contributes to a sense of well-being. Reading books with topics you like and films in good company also help you feel better.
Signs of improvement and worsening
Signs of improvement may take months to observe but include improvement in symptoms and normalization of tests that indicate the cancer is regressing. After finishing the treatment indicated by the oncologist the person must perform several tests that indicate his state of health.
Exams such as chest, abdomen, and pelvis scans may be performed even if these areas have not been affected by the disease, as well as bone marrow biopsy and positron emission tomography that also evaluate the spinal cord because these tests can show if the tumor is present or disappeared.
Possible Complications
Complications of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma can include fluid accumulation around the lungs, which causes difficulty breathing, pressure on the intestine, which causes loss of appetite, and blockage of lymphatic vessels, which causes fluid retention. These are more common in people who discover the tumor at an advanced stage and the treatment is not effective.
