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Real members of MyLymphomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Weight gain PRIOR to treatment

A MyLymphomaTeam Member asked a question 💭

Hello,

I have recently been diagnosed with a form of Lymphoma…I had all the classic symptoms…but one symptom has been the most odd. One of the main symptoms of any cancer is weight loss…well, I want to know how many of you who have had cancer actually had unusual weight gain BEFORE treatment?! I have always been VERY petite, I never could gain weight above 95lbs at all in my life except during my pregnancies…well 2 months ago, I started gaining weight, like crazy!! I tried everything for years… read more

January 25
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MyLymphomaTeam

Did you experience unusual weight gain before lymphoma treatment, and what might cause this?

While weight loss is more commonly discussed as a lymphoma symptom, your experience with sudden weight gain before treatment isn't unheard of. Lymphoma can cause abdominal swelling and bloating through fluid buildup in your abdomen Show Full Answer

Did you experience unusual weight gain before lymphoma treatment, and what might cause this?

While weight loss is more commonly discussed as a lymphoma symptom, your experience with sudden weight gain before treatment isn't unheard of. Lymphoma can cause abdominal swelling and bloating through fluid buildup in your abdomen or an enlarged spleen, which could contribute to weight changes and body size increases.

Some possible explanations for pre-treatment weight gain include:

- Fluid retention (edema) from lymphoma affecting your abdomen or other areas
- Enlarged spleen or lymph nodes adding physical weight
- Bloating from abdominal lymphoma or fluid accumulation
- Hormonal changes that tests might not fully capture

The sudden change in your breast size and overall body measurements over just two months, especially given your lifelong difficulty gaining weight, definitely warrants discussion with your oncology team. They can evaluate whether this relates to your specific lymphoma type, fluid retention, or other factors.

Many MyLymphomaTeam members report bloating and abdominal swelling as symptoms, though most weight gain discussions focus on treatment side effects (particularly from steroids). Your experience highlights how lymphoma symptoms can vary significantly from person to person.

Keep advocating for answers about what's causing these changes—understanding the "why" can help you and your care team manage your symptoms more effectively.

January 25

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