Symptom 2. Fever and Night Sweats: The Disruptive Duo in ALCL’s Arsenal
The body’s natural response to fighting infections or illnesses is often fever. This raised body temperature indicates the immune system is actively warding off something harmful. However, when it comes to ALCL, these fevers are persistent and not linked to typical infections or colds. They tend to be more prolonged, sporadic, and higher in temperature.
Night sweats are equally perplexing. Not your regular overheating, these sweats drench. It’s akin to waking up as if you’ve been in the rain; sheets might be damp, and sleep is frequently interrupted. This symptom, while uncomfortable, is a clear indicator that the body is persistently trying to combat an internal issue.
The combination of fever and night sweats can lead to sleep disruptions. This disturbance in the sleep cycle can have cascading effects on one’s mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. While these symptoms might be mistaken for menopause or other hormonal imbalances, their persistence and severity are often key indicators that they’re related to something more pressing like ALCL.
The unpredictability of these symptoms – fever hitting suddenly and night sweats disrupting once peaceful nights – makes them stand out. The recurring nature of these symptoms can have a profound impact on an individual’s daily life, causing fatigue and often leading to secondary issues like mood disturbances. (2)
