How do I know if my follicular lymphoma comes back after remission?

Monitoring for recurrence after remission is a common concern, and many cancer centers have follow-up protocols that include regular physical exams, blood work, and imaging when medically indicated. It's worth discussing with your oncology team about what specific monitoring plan they recommend for your situation, as they may have strategies for early detection that work within insurance guidelines. Many patients in this community have shared similar worries about surveillance after treatment, and connecting with others who understand this journey can provide valuable insights and support during this phase of recovery.

Im currently getting Rchop round 5 of 6 is tomorrow. I typically take that week off from work then Return to work the following week and keep working until next treatment. I've been blessed that so far ive managed my chemo pretty good. I typically feel crummy for a week after treatment but then I start to feel better. Glad to hear your in remission. I too worry about relapse as its my biggest fear

Hi Jeff: I’m going to my oncologist next month to discuss the best plan for surveillance going forward. I know now I need to pay more attention to my body to hopefully notice anything that may not feel right. Since I’ve always been healthy, the cancer diagnosis was a real shock because I felt fine. Unfortunately Cancer can show up anytime without warning. Staying optimistic and following doctor’s orders is so important for a positive outcome. I’m glad to hear you’re managing it well with work, I wasn’t that fortunate. Now I’m living life through a different lens as most Cancer survivors probably do!

Mine came on very quick. Only symptoms I had was abdominal pains and nothing else. My pcp kept chalking it up to gastritis or an ulcer or something else along those lines. I had multiple visits and nothing was helping. He finally ordered an ultrasound which showed the lymphoma then an mri, cat and pet scan from there. Everything happened in 30-40 days. I lost 50 lbs from beginning of September when pains started to end of October. Im finally gaining weight back slowly but surely. Most days ive felt pretty good so far. 1 treatment left and my last pet scan showed im in remission. My biggest fear is a relapse but will take it day by day as thats all you can do

Absolutely one day at a time. Others can be supportive and try to sympathize but it’s hard for them to have a true understanding of how it really has a significant impact on our life going forward. Sometimes I feel hijacked because it’s always on my mind. I’m staying as optimistic as I can while at the same time thinking about tackling bucket list items sooner rather than later. Good luck with your last treatment.

I have NLPBL stage 4. I spent most of spring & summer with side abdominal pain and like Jeff I had a bunch of wrong diagnosis before "I lit up like Lymphoma" This was September 23, had 3 biopsies before the actual type was discovered. My second surgery the lymph node that was targeted for biopsy had returned to normal. I went through 6 rounds of R-CHOP Spring of 24 while working 2 jobs. Only took the day after treatment off. Giving me 2 days to rest before work began. I was told in July of 25 I had a few dead zones but otherwise a complete response to the treatment. By Spring of 25 symptoms were back, I had movement in my bone marrow again and more. I had 4 Rituxan treatments and a pet scan today. Don't see the doctor till April... I agree with everyone that the watch & wait is the worst! Many prayers for everyone

Nicole im surprised they are having you wait till April to see the doctor. I had my pet scan on monday this week. Met with Dr next morning to go over results and to see where things stand at this point. April is nuts and the pet scan i had in January i also seen my Dr the next day as well

I’ve had three PetScans and in all cases I had to wait 3/4 days before reviewing results with the doctor. Yes the waiting is maddening, however the whole process is brutal but necessary. While in remission I’m trying to make the best of every day and continue to make healthy lifestyle choices. I ended up retiring earlier than expected and it has really helped eliminating my stress which is important as well. 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

Thank you, my previous pet scans I was there within the week. If there is anything major my doctor will call and get me in sooner.