Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss means significantly losing weight over a short period of time without intention. People with lymphoma can lose over 10% of their body weight over 6 months.
Weight loss happens because cancerous cells use lots of energy resources. At the same time, the body uses more energy than normal as it tries to get rid of those abnormal cells. This symptom is more common in aggressive, fast-growing lymphomas because of the excessive and sudden demands it puts on the body.
As with most symptoms, weight loss can be associated with a number of conditions other than lymphoma, such as stress, depression, digestive problems and an overactive thyroid gland. It is recommended to see a GP if you lose more than 5% of your normal body weight over 6 to 12 months. [8]
