NON-HODGKIN'S LYMPHOMA & AIDS

by Lymphoma Association

A small number of people who are already HIV positive, go on to develop a non Hodgkin's lymphoma. NHL on its own does not imply any risk of becoming HIV positive or contracting AIDS. It is not unusual, however, for your doctor to discuss the possibility of HIV positive risk factors and carry out a blood test to exclude this.

If you are living with AIDS you will find that the condition and its treatment vary from that described in this booklet. You may find it helpful to call an AIDS helpline for more information.

Young people and cancer

It is especially poignant when young people develop a serious illness. Just at the point where you are testing your wings, leaving home, starting college or work and travelling on your own, you are suddenly dependant again. Try to take a view; this is an interruption to your plans. Be patient with your parents, family and friends. Of course they will worry about you; it is hard on them too. Understand that when you begin to improve and want to go out and about, your family are likely to be over protective. This is both natural and common. Be kind.

If you are a parent or close family member, accept that your young person wants to be just that; slightly crazy, a bit irresponsible and, on occasions, really quite silly. While safeguarding strength and energy levels - yours as well as theirs - try not to be smothering.

Sex

Many people continue their sex lives as normal. Sometimes, during treatment or immediately afterwards, you may lose interest in sex, perhaps because of tiredness. This is not unusual and there is no need to worry. The important thing is to talk the matter through with your partner. If necessary, discuss any difficulties with your specialist or, if your prefer, a nurse.

Fertility

Some of the treatment can cause sterility or a decrease in fertility, either temporarily or permanently. It is important that, before your treatment starts, you discuss with your specialist how you might be affected. You may wish your partner to be present.
For men: Sterility can occur after some kinds of chemotherapy but may prove to be temporary. If sterility is a likely side effect of your treatment, it is now possible to make arrangements to 'bank' your sperm before the programme starts. Sperm is frozen but can be thawed at a later date and used for artificial insemination. During radiotherapy your reproductive organs will be protected using special lead shielding, so sterility is unlikely.
For women: You may find that your periods become irregular during chemotherapy, and you may be less fertile. In young women, periods frequently return to normal after treatment. If you are close to your natural menopause, it is possible that periods will cease completely. Discuss with your specialist whether Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is right for you. During radiotherapy, care is taken to protect your ovaries from radiation: if the lower body is being treated the radiotherapist will usually reduce the amount of radiation to your ovaries, by using a special lead shielding.
Pregnancy: It is inadvisable to become pregnant whether you or your partner are receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Normally you will be able to take oral contraceptives. Tell your specialist immediately if conception takes place unexpectedly. When treatment is complete, it is normally advised that you wait for up to two years before trying for a baby.