Managing Long-Term Side Effects of Hodgkin Lymphoma Therapies

If you've been treated for Hodgkin lymphoma, you may face long-term side effects. Being aware of these potential effects and discussing management strategies with your healthcare team can help you stay proactive about your health. 

Managing Potential Long-Term Side Effects from Hodgkin Lymphoma Therapies 

Get Screened for Secondary Cancers

People with Hodgkin lymphoma who have received chemotherapy or radiation treatment have an increased risk of developing secondary cancers such as thyroid, lung, breast cancer, and leukemias. 

Work with your doctor to be screened for secondary cancers. It is also recommended that patients live healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating nutrient-dense foods, incorporating moderate exercise into their week, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol use, and not using tobacco products. 

Discuss Fertility Options with Your Doctor 

Both men and women may experience temporary or permanent fertility issues depending on the treatment received, especially with radiation to the pelvic area. Chemotherapy and radiation (especially in younger patients) can reduce or cause the loss of fertility. Discuss this area of concern with your doctor prior to treatment. 

Manage Infection Risk

For reasons that are not yet fully understood, individuals with Hodgkin lymphoma often experience issues with their immune system not functioning properly. Treatments like chemotherapy and radiation may further weaken immune defenses. If a patient undergoes spleen removal as part of their treatment, they should receive vaccinations to protect against specific bacterial infections. Additionally, all patients are advised to get an annual flu shot using a non-live vaccine. Any signs of infection should be promptly evaluated and treated by a healthcare professional. 

Support Thyroid Health 

Radiation treatment targeting the neck area can harm the thyroid gland, potentially causing hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid becomes underactive. As a result, some patients may need to take daily thyroid medication indefinitely. Individuals who have received radiation to the neck or upper chest should have their thyroid function monitored regularly with blood tests, ideally at least once a year, to detect any changes early.

Screen for Heart Disease and Stroke

Patients who have received chest radiation or certain chemotherapy drugs, like doxorubicin, face an increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and, in some cases, delayed heart damage that may not appear until a decade or more after treatment. Radiation to the neck can also affect blood vessels, raising the risk of stroke. 

Regular monitoring, such as ultrasound exams to assess neck blood vessel health, can help detect potential issues early. Managing risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol is essential in reducing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. 

Summary

If you've been treated for Hodgkin lymphoma, staying on top of long-term health management is important. Regular follow-up appointments, monitoring for side effects, and addressing any that arise can help you stay healthy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may also improve your chances of long-term survival. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage any potential long-term effects of treatment.

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Source: 

• Living as a Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivor