← Return to How do I tell if increase in illnesses is due to lymphoma

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
Profile picture for Lori, Volunteer Mentor @loribmt

Hi @besthiker Having a blood condition such as follicular lymphoma can cause a disruption in the immune system, leaving a person immunocompromised. When that happens, the body has a more difficult time fending off bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Some of the infections may last longer than in the past because the immune system isn’t as robust, as you’ve been finding out with more frequent colds.

Follicular lymphoma tends to develop slowly and has different stages. At this time, you mentioned that your doctor has you on active surveillance (sounds nicer than watch and wait…that just feels like you’re waiting for the other shoe to drop). You’ll have routine blood work and possibly some imaging over the years in the future to monitor any change.
Until then treatment isn’t necessary. But changes in how you manage your health may. I know how aggravating and seemingly unfair it is when you’ve been super healthy all your life and then, boom…rug pulled out from under. It’s been my life for the past 7 years. But it is possible to stay fairly healthy with a little extra effort. Basically following a ‘modified’ Covid protocol is helpful. Masking up, lots of hand washing, don’t touch your face without washing hands first, etc… Drink plenty of water daily, fresh air, sunshine, exercise and avoiding germy situations can make a huge difference in avoiding colds and flu.

Wish I had better news for you on the cold front but a few little lifestyle changes may help you avoid them. Do you wear masks while out shopping, in meetings, family events?

Jump to this post


Replies to "Hi @besthiker Having a blood condition such as follicular lymphoma can cause a disruption in the..."

@loribmt
I do not tend to now though I did during Covid. Where I barely got sick. I’ll try to do that more but voice is bad due to cold complications.

It does suck, as you say. My oncologist doesn’t think my colds this year are related but he doesn’t know about latest cold and how long the last one lasted. I get blood work in 2 weeks so I’ll see immunoglobulin levels then. But I think ones immune system can be worse even without those abnormal IG levels. But I don’t have a reference offhand. Good to hear you didn’t need treatment despite increase in infections. Or sort of good.

@loribmt very very helpful, thank you!! Scottie