What is the lymphatic system and how does it work. Where are lymph nodes located in the body. How does the lymphatic system support immune function. What are the main components of the lymphatic system. How does lymph circulation differ from blood circulation. What health issues can arise from lymphatic system problems. How can you support lymphatic health naturally.

The Lymphatic System: An Essential Part of Human Anatomy

The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels, tissues, and organs that plays a crucial role in maintaining our body’s health and immunity. Often overlooked, this system works tirelessly alongside our circulatory system to keep us functioning optimally. But what exactly does the lymphatic system do, and why is it so important?

At its core, the lymphatic system is responsible for three main functions:

• Removing excess fluid from tissues
• Absorbing fatty acids and transporting fat to the circulatory system
• Producing immune cells to defend the body against pathogens

Understanding the intricacies of this system can help us appreciate its significance in maintaining overall health and wellness.

The Anatomy of the Lymphatic System: A Closer Look

The lymphatic system is composed of several key components, each playing a vital role in its function. These include:

• Lymph vessels
• Lymph nodes
• Lymphoid organs (spleen, thymus, tonsils)
• Lymphoid tissues
• Lymph fluid

Lymph vessels form an intricate network throughout the body, running alongside blood vessels. These vessels transport lymph, a clear, colorless fluid containing white blood cells, proteins, and fats. But how does this fluid move through the body?

Unlike the circulatory system, which relies on the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump. Instead, it relies on the movement of muscles and body parts to push lymph through its vessels. This is one reason why physical activity is so important for lymphatic health.

Lymph Nodes: The Filtration Stations

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located at various points along the lymphatic vessels. They act as filtration stations, trapping harmful substances and producing lymphocytes – a type of white blood cell crucial for immune function. But where exactly are these lymph nodes located in the body?

The main clusters of lymph nodes can be found in the following areas:

• Neck (cervical lymph nodes)
• Armpits (axillary lymph nodes)
• Groin (inguinal lymph nodes)
• Chest (mediastinal lymph nodes)
• Abdomen (mesenteric lymph nodes)

Understanding the location of these lymph nodes can be crucial, as swollen or tender lymph nodes often indicate that the body is fighting an infection or dealing with other health issues.

The Lymphatic System and Immune Function: A Vital Partnership

How does the lymphatic system support our immune function? The answer lies in its role as a production and transportation system for immune cells. Lymphoid organs, such as the spleen and thymus, produce and mature lymphocytes – the white blood cells responsible for identifying and neutralizing harmful pathogens.

The lymphatic system also serves as a highway for these immune cells, allowing them to travel throughout the body and respond quickly to threats. This rapid response is crucial for fighting off infections and maintaining overall health.

The Role of the Spleen in Immunity

The spleen, the largest lymphoid organ, plays a multifaceted role in immune function. It acts as a blood filter, removing old or damaged red blood cells and platelets. Additionally, it stores platelets and a certain type of white blood cell called monocytes, which can quickly be deployed to sites of infection or injury.

But what happens if the spleen is removed? While it’s possible to live without a spleen, individuals who have undergone a splenectomy (spleen removal) are at higher risk for certain infections and may need to take additional precautions to protect their health.

Lymphatic Circulation: A Different Kind of Flow

How does lymph circulation differ from blood circulation? While both systems are responsible for transporting vital substances throughout the body, they operate in fundamentally different ways.

Blood circulation is a closed system, with blood always contained within vessels and propelled by the heart’s pumping action. Lymphatic circulation, on the other hand, is an open system. Lymph forms when excess fluid from blood capillaries enters the interstitial spaces between cells. This fluid is then collected by lymph capillaries and transported through progressively larger lymph vessels before eventually returning to the bloodstream.

The one-way flow of the lymphatic system is maintained by a series of valves within the lymph vessels, which prevent backflow. This ensures that lymph, along with any pathogens or waste products it contains, moves efficiently towards the lymph nodes for filtration.

The Importance of Movement for Lymphatic Health

Given that the lymphatic system lacks a central pump, how does lymph move through the body? The answer lies in the movement of our muscles and body parts. Activities that promote muscle contraction and body movement, such as exercise, deep breathing, and even massage, can help stimulate lymph flow.

This highlights the importance of regular physical activity not just for cardiovascular health, but for maintaining a healthy lymphatic system as well. Sedentary lifestyles can lead to sluggish lymph flow, potentially compromising immune function and overall health.

Common Lymphatic System Disorders: When Things Go Wrong

While the lymphatic system is remarkably efficient, it can sometimes face challenges. What health issues can arise from lymphatic system problems? Some common lymphatic disorders include:

• Lymphedema: A condition characterized by swelling in the arms or legs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system
• Lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes, often due to infection
• Lymphoma: A type of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system
• Elephantiasis: Severe swelling and tissue changes in the limbs, often due to parasitic infections affecting the lymphatic system

Understanding these conditions can help individuals recognize potential symptoms and seek appropriate medical attention when necessary.

Lymphedema: A Closer Look

Lymphedema is perhaps one of the most common lymphatic system disorders. But what causes this condition, and how can it be managed? Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is unable to drain lymph fluid effectively, leading to swelling in the affected area.

This condition can be primary (inherited) or secondary (caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to cancer treatments or surgery). While there’s no cure for lymphedema, it can be managed through various treatments, including:

• Compression garments
• Manual lymphatic drainage (a type of massage)
• Exercise
• Skincare

Early recognition and treatment of lymphedema are crucial for preventing complications and maintaining quality of life.

Supporting Lymphatic Health: Natural Approaches

How can you support lymphatic health naturally? While the lymphatic system generally functions without conscious effort on our part, there are several ways we can support its optimal function:

1. Stay hydrated: Adequate fluid intake helps maintain the proper consistency of lymph fluid
2. Exercise regularly: Physical activity stimulates lymph flow
3. Practice deep breathing: This helps create pressure changes in the chest cavity, promoting lymph flow
4. Maintain a healthy diet: Foods rich in antioxidants can support overall immune function
5. Consider dry brushing: This technique may help stimulate lymph flow in the skin
6. Avoid tight clothing: Overly tight garments can restrict lymph flow
7. Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact immune function

Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help support not just your lymphatic health, but your overall wellbeing.

The Role of Nutrition in Lymphatic Health

What foods can support lymphatic health? While no single food can “cure” lymphatic issues, certain nutrients and dietary habits may support optimal lymphatic function:

• Water-rich fruits and vegetables: These help maintain proper hydration
• Leafy greens: Rich in chlorophyll, which may support detoxification
• Healthy fats: Essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
• Herbs like red clover, cleavers, and calendula: Traditionally used to support lymphatic health
• Foods high in antioxidants: These support overall immune function

Remember, a balanced diet rich in whole foods is generally the best approach for supporting all body systems, including the lymphatic system.

The Lymphatic System and Detoxification: Separating Fact from Fiction

In recent years, there’s been increasing interest in “lymphatic detoxification” programs and products. But what’s the truth behind these claims? While the lymphatic system does play a role in removing waste products from tissues, it’s important to approach “detox” claims with a critical eye.

The human body has several built-in detoxification systems, including the liver, kidneys, and yes, the lymphatic system. These systems work continuously to remove waste products and harmful substances from our bodies. However, there’s little scientific evidence to support the need for specific “detox” programs or products to enhance this natural process.

Instead of focusing on trendy detox programs, supporting overall lymphatic health through lifestyle factors like regular exercise, proper hydration, and a balanced diet is likely to be more beneficial in the long run.

The Myth of “Lymphatic Congestion”

You may have heard claims about “lymphatic congestion” or the need to “unclog” your lymphatic system. But is there any truth to these ideas? While the lymphatic system can sometimes function sub-optimally, the concept of widespread “lymphatic congestion” in otherwise healthy individuals is not supported by scientific evidence.

The lymphatic system is generally quite efficient at moving lymph fluid and filtering out waste products and pathogens. In cases where lymph flow is impaired, such as in lymphedema, it’s typically due to specific medical conditions or physical damage to the lymphatic vessels.

Rather than worrying about “congestion,” focus on maintaining overall health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate hydration. These practices support not just lymphatic health, but overall wellbeing.

The Future of Lymphatic System Research: New Frontiers

As our understanding of the lymphatic system continues to grow, what new discoveries and treatments might be on the horizon? Recent research has uncovered some exciting new areas of study:

• Brain lymphatics: The discovery of lymphatic vessels in the brain has opened up new avenues for understanding neurological diseases
• Cancer metastasis: Better understanding of how cancer cells use the lymphatic system to spread could lead to new treatment strategies
• Autoimmune diseases: Research into the role of the lymphatic system in autoimmune conditions may lead to new therapeutic approaches
• Lymphatic bioengineering: Efforts to create artificial lymphatic vessels could help in treating lymphedema and other lymphatic disorders

These areas of research hold promise for improving our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of health conditions.

The Lymphatic System and Aging

How does the lymphatic system change as we age, and what implications does this have for health? Like many body systems, the lymphatic system can become less efficient with age. This can potentially impact immune function and increase the risk of certain health issues.

Some age-related changes to the lymphatic system include:

• Decreased lymph flow
• Reduced lymphocyte production
• Changes in lymph node structure

These changes underscore the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyle habits throughout life to support optimal lymphatic function. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management can all play a role in supporting lymphatic health as we age.

Integrating Lymphatic Health into Overall Wellness

How can we integrate awareness of lymphatic health into our overall wellness routines? While the lymphatic system often works quietly in the background, paying attention to its needs can contribute to overall health and vitality.

Here are some ways to incorporate lymphatic health into your wellness routine:

1. Include lymphatic-stimulating movements in your exercise routine, such as rebounding or swimming
2. Practice self-massage techniques that can help stimulate lymph flow
3. Stay mindful of your hydration levels throughout the day
4. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga into your routine
5. Choose clothing that allows for comfortable movement and doesn’t restrict circulation
6. Consider alternating hot and cold showers, which may help stimulate circulation and lymph flow
7. Educate yourself about the signs of potential lymphatic issues and don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns

Remember, the lymphatic system doesn’t exist in isolation – it’s intimately connected with our circulatory, immune, and digestive systems. By taking a holistic approach to health that considers all these systems, we can support our body’s natural ability to maintain balance and fight off disease.

The Mind-Body Connection and Lymphatic Health

Is there a connection between mental health and lymphatic function? While research in this area is still emerging, there’s growing evidence of a strong mind-body connection that can impact various aspects of our physical health, including the lymphatic system.

Chronic stress, for example, can suppress immune function, potentially impacting the lymphatic system’s ability to fight off pathogens. On the other hand, practices that promote relaxation and stress reduction, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, may help support optimal lymphatic function.

This mind-body connection underscores the importance of taking a holistic approach to health that considers not just physical factors, but mental and emotional wellbeing as well.

Conclusion: The Lymphatic System – A Key Player in Health and Wellness

As we’ve explored throughout this article, the lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining our health and wellbeing. From supporting immune function to aiding in the removal of waste products from our tissues, this often-overlooked system works tirelessly to keep our bodies in balance.

By understanding the basics of lymphatic anatomy and function, we can better appreciate the importance of supporting this system through healthy lifestyle choices. Regular exercise, proper hydration, a balanced diet, and stress management all contribute to optimal lymphatic health.

As research in this field continues to advance, we’re likely to gain even more insights into the lymphatic system’s role in health and disease. This knowledge will undoubtedly open up new avenues for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of health conditions.

Remember, while the lymphatic system may not always be in the spotlight, its proper function is essential for overall health. By giving it the attention it deserves, we can support our body’s natural ability to maintain balance, fight off disease, and promote longevity.

Whether you’re a health professional, a wellness enthusiast, or simply someone interested in optimizing your health, understanding and supporting your lymphatic system is a valuable step towards holistic wellbeing. As we continue to unlock the secrets of this fascinating system, we move closer to a more comprehensive understanding of human health and the intricate ways our bodies maintain balance in an ever-changing world.

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Anatomie des menschlichen Lymphsystems

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Anatomie des menschlichen Lymphsystems

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Anatomie des menschlichen Lymphsystems

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Anatomie des menschlichen Lymphsystems

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All About Dog Lymph Nodes (Location Chart and Photos)

Looking for a dog lymph node location chart? Asking yourself, “Should I be able to feel my dog’s lymph nodes?” and “Where are dog lymph nodes?” Curious why a dog might have swollen lymph nodes? If any of those sound like you, you found the right article! Integrative vet Dr. Julie Buzby answers all your dog lymph node questions. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to locate your dog’s lymph nodes and what to do if you suspect a problem.

If you’ve ever had a really bad cold or sinus infection, you may have experienced swollen glands around your throat. These glands, called lymph nodes, don’t just swell up as an annoyance. Lymph nodes are actually an integral part of your immune system, and the immune system of your canine companion too.

What are dog lymph nodes?

In some ways, lymph nodes are the military training ground for the immune system. Inside these small, bean-shaped organs, immune system “soldiers” (i.e. white blood cells called lymphocytes) await instructions to go to battle against infectious agents or other foreign materials that don’t belong in a dog’s body.

Your dog’s lymph nodes make up one segment of his or her lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. The lymphatic system is one of the chief ways dogs can fight infections and remove cellular debris from their blood.

The other main components of the lymphatic system are:

• Other lymphoid organs/tissues—Bone marrow (a lymphoid tissue) and some lymphoid organs like the spleen and thymus are responsible for making lymphocytes.
• Lymphatic vessels—These thin-walled vessels are the “highway” of the lymphatic system. They carry lymphocytes around the body and bring lymph to and from the lymph nodes, which are situated strategically along the lymph vessels.
• Lymph—The fluid within the lymphatic vessels which is rich in lymphocytes. It may also contain foreign invaders or damaged cells from the tissues.

Let’s take a closer look at how the components of the lymphatic system work together.

The fluid from blood becomes lymph

As blood flows through the blood vessels, some of the fluid component leaks into the surrounding tissues. This is an important way for the body to send nutrients to the cells within a tissue. Once this interstitial fluid (i.e. fluid in tissues) has distributed nutrients and picked up things like waste products, foreign invaders, and damaged cells, it drains into lymph vessels to create lymph fluid.

^{The anatomy of a lymph node.}

Lymph flows through a lymph node

With the help of muscle contractions, lymph can flow through lymphatic vessels and into the lymph node. Inside the lymph node, foreign invaders are filtered out and exposed to a variety of immune cells. This activates a cascade of highly complex events necessary to mount an immune response.

One result of the immune response is a change in lymphocyte numbers and distribution within the lymph node. This may cause the lymph node to swell significantly due to the increased cell numbers.

Lymph fluid re-enters the blood stream

Lymphocytes from the lymph node will enter the lymph, which flows out of the lymph node and travels to other areas of the body. Eventually the lymph will empty back into the veins of the circulatory system.

Where are dog lymph nodes located?

Lymph nodes are scattered throughout your dog’s body. Some lymph nodes are located deep inside the body, such as within the abdomen and along the intestinal tract, where you can’t feel or see them.

Lymph node locations you can feel

However, there are five sets of peripheral lymph nodes in dogs that are easy to feel. In some cases, you may be able to feel a hint of the nodes in their normal state (i.e., small). But it is much easier to detect enlarged lymph nodes.

The following lymph node locations are the easiest to palpate (i.e. feel):

• Submandibular lymph nodes—located on either side of the lower jaw where it meets the neck
• Prescapular lymph nodes (i.e. superficial cervical lymph nodes)—found in front of the shoulder blade where the neck and shoulder meet
• Axillary lymph nodes—in the armpit
• Inguinal lymph nodes—located in the groin (inguinal) region
• Popliteal lymph nodes—found at the back of the stifle (i.e. knee)

^{The red circle is highlighting the area where the dog’s submandibular lymph node can usually be felt.}

Out of these five sets, it is easiest for most people to detect the submandibular and popliteal lymph nodes. Especially if a dog is overweight or there are only mildly swollen lymph nodes, it may be a little trickier to locate the axillary and inguinal lymph nodes. The prescapular lymph nodes, located in front of the shoulders and near big neck muscle bodies, can also be a little trickier to detect if only slightly enlarged.

Dog lymph node location chart

Check out this handy dog lymph node location chart to help you visualize where your dog’s lymph nodes are. This may make it easy for you to find and palpate your dog’s lymph nodes.

^{This dog lymph node location chart showcases where you should be able to feel lymph nodes in your dog.}

How do I check my dog’s lymph nodes?

When I talk about palpating lymph nodes, what I mean is using your hands to feel the lymph node and check for any swelling. In order to do this, you need to know several things—where to find the lymph nodes (which we already discussed), how to palpate, and what a normal lymph node should feel like.

How do you palpate a lymph node?

In general, palpating involves running your hands along a particular area of the body in order to detect any deviation or swelling that wasn’t there before. You’ve probably already done this to your furry friend if you practice my tip-to-tail dog wellness scan.

Gently running your hands over your dog’s fur and skin while petting him or her can be a great way to look for things like insect bites, hives, cysts, and other skin lesions. Looking for swollen lymph nodes is really not all that different. It just means you need to feel specific places where lymph nodes are located. Sometimes it helps to gently grasp the deeper tissues in the region with your thumb and forefinger and feel for a round to oval structure.

How big should lymph nodes be in dogs?

In healthy dogs or cats, many times the lymph nodes are small enough that you barely feel them. And that is a good thing because lymph nodes should be pea sized in small dogs to grape sized in large dogs.

If the lymph nodes are swollen, they will typically be much more prominent. In some cases, a swollen lymph node (or lymph nodes) can become two, three, or even four-times their normal size. Those are much easier to feel, and you can often see them at that point too.

^{The red circles show where the dog’s prescapular lymph nodes can be palpated.}

Try to get a good sense of what the lymph node locations normally feel like on your dog. Can you feel any sort of bump with gentle pressure? If so, how big is it and what does it feel like? You could also consider asking your veterinarian to help you properly locate and palpate your dog’s lymph nodes. That way you have a bit of muscle memory when you go to do it yourself.

Routinely palpating your dog’s lymph nodes yourself can come in handy because it makes it more likely you will catch enlargement when it is still mild.

Beware of lymph node lookalikes

I do want to mention one other thing to keep in mind. Sometimes a swollen lymph node can be easy to confuse with something else.

For example, the submandibular lymph nodes are located at the part of the dog’s neck that is near the jaw. However, salivary glands dwell in this area too, and they can feel just like enlarged submandibular lymph nodes. Or, if your dog has a lipoma in dogs or other mass right at the same spot where you would expect a lymph node, you might mistake one for the other.

If you find yourself unsure about what you are feeling or if you think your dog has a swollen lymph node at one of the locations, consult your veterinarian. There are many reasons a dog may have swollen lymph nodes—some of which are worse than others.

Before we get into the causes for swollen lymph nodes in dogs, let’s pause for a moment and define some terms. The medical word for enlarged lymph nodes is “lymphadenopathy” or “lymphadenomegaly.” However, sometimes vets may also use terms that describe the process leading to the lymphadenopathy. For example, the term “reactive lymphoid hyperplasia” denotes lymph node enlargement due to the increase in lymphocytes numbers as part of an immune reaction.

What causes swollen lymph nodes in dogs?

Now that we have the terms cleared up, let’s take a look a the two main reasons for enlarged lymph nodes—infection and cancer.

^{Infections, like dental disease, can cause the dog’s submandibular lymph nodes to enlarge.}

1. Swollen lymph nodes in dogs due to infection

As mentioned earlier, lymph nodes can become enlarged when lymphocytes interact with foreign materials. Bacterial infections and fungal infections in dogs can cause lymph nodes to enlarge in one part of the body or in several, depending on how widespread the infection may be. Also, tick-borne disease in dogs may cause widespread lymphadenpathy.

On the other hand, ear infections (i.e. otitis in dogs), dental disease in dogs, and upper respiratory infections may specifically lead to swollen submandibular lymph nodes. This is because those lymph nodes receive lymph from the head, which is where the infection is located.

Finally, allergic reactions, which are really a type of immune reaction, can also trigger lymphadenomegaly.

2. Lymph node cancer in dogs

Certain types of cancer can lead to lymph node enlargement. Lymphoma in dogs is a kind of cancer that can impact all parts of the lymphatic system. It may start out as enlarged lymph nodes in one part of the dog’s body. But, in more advanced stages, it can spread to other lymph nodes and/or lymphoid organs like the spleen. Basset Hounds, Boxers, Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, and Golden Retrievers all have an increased risk for the development of lymphoma, primarily when they are middle-aged or older.

Other types of cancer such as mast cell tumors, melanomas, and adenocarcinomas may eventually metastasize (i.e. spread) to a lymph node or multiple lymph nodes. This would also cause lymph node enlargement.

What other symptoms may occur with swollen lymph nodes?

Based on the range of conditions that can cause lymphadenopathy, it makes sense that dogs with swollen lymph nodes can experience a variety of other symptoms.

^{Enlarged lymph nodes may cause several different symptoms in your dog.}

For example, a dog with an upper respiratory infection might also be coughing or sneezing. Pain while eating, foul breath, or older dogs losing teeth are all signs of dental disease. Other infections could cause a fever or a lethargic dog. Dogs with tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease in dogs may experience mobility issues and lameness in multiple limbs.

And sometimes there aren’t any other symptoms right away. That tends to be the case with lymphoma where the swollen lymph nodes are the first sign of a problem.

If you believe your dog has a swollen lymph node, please schedule an appointment with you vet. As mentioned above, there are many reasons your dog may have a swollen lymph node(s), and some are more serious than others.

What can you expect at the vet appointment?

At the appointment, your veterinarian will take your dog’s other symptoms, history, and the results of the physical exam into consideration when creating a diagnostic plan. This plan could run the gamut from blood work and urine testing to imaging like X-rays or ultrasound.

Generally your vet will perform a fine needle aspirate test on one or more of the enlarged lymph nodes. This is a test where the vet uses a needle and syringe to collect cells from the lymph node. Then, the vet views the cells under the microscope to gain more information about what is going on.

Sometimes, the vet will be able to visualize an infectious agent like bacteria in the lymph node aspirate. Other times, seeing an abundance of big, blue-stained immature lymphocytes (i.e. lymphoblasts) can point to a diagnosis of lymphoma in dogs.

Alternatively, the vet may discover cells from other types of cancer that have made it to a particular lymph node. For example, oral melanoma can make pigmented cells appear in the lymph node aspirate.

If your veterinarian is not sure about the contents of the lymph node aspirate, he or she can submit the microscope slides to a pathologist for further insight. If a fine needle aspirate is insufficient for obtaining a diagnosis, your vet (or the veterinary pathologist) may recommend a biopsy of the lymph node.

^{Your veterinarian may submit a sample of a lymph node to the lab for cytology or histopathology.}

What are the treatment options for swollen lymph nodes in dogs?

Once your vet has determined the cause of the enlarged lymph nodes, he or she can make a treatment plan. If a fine needle aspirate confirms reactive hyperplasia, treatment centers around addressing the source of the infection.

This may involve performing a dental procedure to clean your dog’s teeth and extract any diseased ones. Or it may mean treating an infection with antibiotics or antifungals. It may take a few days or weeks for the lymph nodes to return to normal size after the infection is gone.

Cancer patients may have any number of treatments depending on the type and stage of their cancer. With lymphoma, some dog parents elect to treat with prednisone for dogs while others pursue chemotherapy with a veterinary oncologist. While lymphoma is not completely curable, chemo can put lymphoma into remission for a period of time.

Whatever the diagnosis, you can count on your veterinarian to walk through it with you. He or she is a valuable asset and—just like you—has your dog’s best interest in mind.

What can I do for my dog with swollen lymph nodes?

It’s important to point out that there are no home remedies for dogs with swollen lymph nodes. As a dedicated dog parent, the best thing you can do is to seek treatment by a veterinarian if you suspect a problem.

There are, however, some things you can do to reduce your dog’s chances of having swollen lymph nodes from an infection.

• Remember to keep your dog up-to-date on vaccinations for infectious diseases. Vaccinations for upper respiratory conditions like kennel cough and tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease are particularly important.
• Use flea, tick, and heartworm prevention all year round. Diseases carried by tick bites can cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Work with your vet to develop an at-home daily dental hygiene routine for your dog. There are many good dental products on the market. But brushing your dog’s teeth is still the best way to ward off dental disease. This is important because, as we discussed, bad teeth in dogs can cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Choose safe chew toys for your dog to help prevent fractured teeth.
• Make notes about your furry friend’s travel history. (There are places where fungal infections may be more common.)
• If your dog is susceptible to allergies, ask your vet about allergy medicines for dogs.

Finally, I would urge you to incorporate lymph node palpation into your dog’s health routine. Learning to locate your dog’s lymph nodes and familiarizing yourself with what those areas feel like can be a great tool for finding swollen lymph nodes rapidly. In turn, this means that your vet can start treatment sooner.

^{The two red circles show where you should be able to feel the popliteal lymph nodes.}

Become a lymph node locating pro

With practice, it can become easier to know the locations of the peripheral lymph nodes. The dog lymph node location chart included in this article is a great starting point. However, if you are struggling to find your dog’s lymph nodes, don’t feel bad. I want you to understand that even a skilled hand can sometimes miss something so tiny!

Also, keep in mind that even if you do become proficient at finding your dog’s lymph nodes, this isn’t a substitution for routine physical exams with your dog’s vet. His or her trained fingers may notice a swollen lymph node that escaped your detection. Plus, wellness exams can also be a great way to screen for any other health issues. So be sure to schedule an examination for your sweet senior dog at least twice a year.

And, as always, if you have any concerns with your dog’s health or think you may have found an enlarged lymph node, please talk to your veterinarian.

What questions do you have about dog lymph nodes?

Please comment below.

Lymphatic System Anatomy–Lymphosurgery Center

The lymphatic system is an important part of the human cardiovascular system and complements it.

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have its own pump and is open. The lymph circulating in it moves slowly and under little pressure. Lymph is a fluid that is constantly formed by drainage of interstitial fluid into the lymphatic capillaries.

The structure of the lymphatic system includes:

• lymphatic capillaries
• lymphatic vessels
• lymph nodes
• lymphatic trunks and ducts

subclavian trunks; on the right into the right lymphatic duct, right jugular and right subclavian trunks. The ducts and trunks flow into the large veins of the neck, and then into the superior vena cava. In this way, lymph is transferred from the interstitial spaces back into the blood.

Lymphatic vessels pass through the lymph nodes. They are combined into several groups and are located along the vessels. Many afferent vessels carry lymph to the node, and it flows out from there only through one or two efferent vessels. Lymph nodes are small formations of a round, oval, bean-shaped, less often ribbon-shaped form up to 2 cm long. Here, lymph is filtered, foreign matter is separated and destroyed, and lymphocytes are produced here to fight infection. Lymph nodes that perform a barrier and immune role.

Main functions of the lymphatic system:

• Transport function – carrying lymph, metabolic products from tissues to the venous bed.

• Drainage function – the return of proteins, water, salts, toxins and metabolites from tissues to the blood. Removal of fluid, pus, effusion from the wound, cavities. Stability of the “capillary lymphatic pump”

• Lymphocytopoiesis, hematopoietic function – formation, maturation, differentiation of lymphocytes involved in immune reactions.

• Immune, protective functions – formation of the body’s immune defense, neutralization of foreign particles, bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa that enter the body. filtration from impurities, tumor particles and cells.

Any failure or blockage of the lymphatic vessels or nodes entails swelling or swelling of the tissues, lymphadenitis, erysipelas, lymphostasis occur. Experts, not without reason, believe that the lymph could tell about what the blood is “silent about”, because many of the waste products of the cells first enter the lymph, and then into the blood.

If most doctors can help us in the fight against many diseases, then only individual doctors – lymphologists – can diagnose and treat disorders in the lymphatic system.

According to the statistics of doctors themselves, in the CIS there are only a few lymphologists – specialists in the lymphatic system.

Lymphologists say: Your health is the purity of your lymphatic system!

Be healthy and happy!

where they are located, what functions they perform, in which diseases 9 increase0001

Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes usually causes discomfort and pain. As a rule, this indicates that an inflammatory process is underway in the body.

What are lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are the most important organs that perform a barrier-filtration function ¹ . Their main function is the biological filter of lymph – a colorless liquid that washes all the tissues and cells of the body. It consists of plasma and formed elements. Interestingly, lymph plasma has an almost similar chemical structure to blood plasma, but contains fewer proteins ² .

Useful information about lymph nodes

Where are the lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are found almost everywhere. They are arranged in such a way as to become an obstacle in the way of various “garbage”: toxins, viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, cancer cells.

Most lymph nodes are located deep under the skin and even near internal organs where they cannot be felt. But some lymph nodes – under the jaw, in the armpits, in the groin – can be palpated even in a healthy, non-inflamed state.

Photo: Shutterstock

Functions of the lymph nodes

As mentioned earlier, the main function of the lymph nodes is barrier-protective function. In these organs of the lymphatic system, protective cells of the body are formed, such as lymphocytes, antibodies, phagocytes. Lymph nodes protect against the penetration of infections, and also prevent the reproduction of malignant tumor cells and play a role in the immune response to substances foreign to the body.

The lymph nodes also perform the following functions:

• hematopoietic – after the lymph nodes, lymph enriched with lymphocytes gets into the blood;
• drainage – promote the outflow of excess fluid;
• depository (reserve) – lymph node is a temporary storage of lymphocytes and lymph. The latter lingers in the lymph node in order to ensure the unloading of the bloodstream in “emergency” situations, for example, during venous congestion;
• metabolic – lymph nodes are involved in the metabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates and other substances.

Causes of swollen lymph nodes

Lymph nodes have their own diseases, and most often their inflammation is a reaction to some other disease or condition. Completely different reasons can lead to an increase in lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). Consider the most common of them.

Local infections

Infection is one of the most common causes of swollen lymph nodes.

— For example, it can be acute respiratory diseases, leading to an increase in regional lymph nodes associated with the area in which inflammation occurs, says general practitioner Oksana Khamitseva.

As a rule, the focus of the disease is located near enlarged lymph nodes. So, with infections of the upper respiratory tract, the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed, with a sexual infection – in the groin.

Generalized viral and bacterial infections

If only one category of lymph nodes is affected, then they speak of local inflammation. If the nodes that are not adjacent to each other increase, then we are talking about a generalized inflammation of the lymph nodes.

This widespread inflammation can be caused by infections – bacterial, viral, fungal, which affect the entire body. It can be tuberculosis, some infectious skin diseases, rubella, chickenpox, cytomegalovirus, mononucleosis, HIV and others.

Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases such as arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus can also lead to swollen lymph nodes. In such diseases, the body begins to attack its own cells. Due to the increasing load on the lymph nodes, their inflammation occurs.

Tumor processes

Swollen lymph nodes can also signal tumor processes in the body. As we wrote above, lymph nodes prevent the reproduction of cancer cells, but in some cases, tumor cells can get stuck in them and multiply. Tumor processes can lead to the development of leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis, lymphoma.

Hypersensitivity of the body

Allergic reactions can also provoke inflammation of the lymph nodes. In addition, their increase may be associated with hypersensitivity to certain drugs.

How lymph nodes are treated

The treatment of lymphadenopathy is varied and always depends on its cause. An increase in lymph nodes is a signal of inflammation, so you need to look for its source.

Most often, inflammation of the lymph nodes occurs as a secondary process, that is, a reaction to another disease:

• if this is associated with acute respiratory infections, then it is necessary to treat the respiratory tract infection itself, be it a bacterium or a virus;
• if it is associated with a generalized infection (mononucleosis, HIV), then long-term specific therapy is selected here;
• cat-scratch disease (felinosis) is treated with special antibiotics;
• Sepsis is controlled only in the hospital by intravenous administration of various drugs, including antibiotics, and ionic solutions.
• autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, Kawasaki disease, etc.) are treated by a rheumatologist, prescribing hormones or cytostatics for long courses under constant supervision.

Lymphadenopathy can also be caused by cancer. Conventionally, they can be divided into 3 sections:

1. leukemia, when the primary malignant focus is in the bone marrow;
2. lymphomas, when the foci are located directly in the lymph nodes;
3. metastases, when the focus is located in the internal organ, and cancer cells affect the lymph nodes in the path of lymph outflow.

— In the case of leukemia, a bone marrow transplant is possible. With lymphoma, it is useless to do this, you can only use various options for radiation, chemotherapy, genetic engineering methods. And if lymphadenopathy is caused by metastases, then, as a rule, the tumor of the corresponding organ is removed, entering healthy tissues and capturing the “package” of affected lymph nodes, says our expert Oksana Khamitseva.

How to maintain the health of the lymphatic system at home

According to physician Oksana Khamitseva, the health of the lymphatic system primarily depends on two components: good lymphatic drainage and normal functioning of the immune system. This is not difficult to achieve:

• regular physical activity;
• avoid tight, constricting clothing;
• smoking and alcohol cessation;
• courses of multivitamins 2 times a year;
• food high in protein and fiber in the diet;
• adequate fluid intake.

Popular questions and answers

General practitioner Oksana Khamitseva answers popular questions about lymph nodes.

Which lymph node is responsible for what?

– Each internal organ is supplied with lymph nodes, arteries and veins. If we talk about those lymph nodes that we can feel:

• Submandibular: increase with rhinitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, inflammation of the teeth and gums.
• Cervical: inflamed with acute respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, otitis media.
• Parotid: react to otitis media, acute respiratory infections.
• Occipital: increased with head and neck infections, acute tonsillitis, infectious mononucleosis.
• Axillary: may also be associated with mononucleosis, mastitis, breast cancer, HIV, cat scratch disease.
• Elbows: felinosis, HIV.
• Inguinal: mumps, generalized infections, inflammation of the urogenital organs.

What to do if the lymph nodes are inflamed?

— If you have lymphadenitis, you need to see a doctor, because you don’t know what it can be connected with. If you notice an increase in lymph nodes in the head and neck, there are signs of acute respiratory infections (runny nose, sore throat, cough, fever), then you can independently start taking vitamins, antiviral drugs, NSAIDs, symptomatic treatments for colds.

If you notice an increase in lymph nodes, which is objectively not related to the infectious process, then doing something without a doctor’s recommendation can be dangerous. Even taking vitamins, if the process is autoimmune, will spur the immune system to even more aggressive inflammation.

Why is inflammation of the lymph nodes dangerous?

— Complications of lymphadenitis include:

• transfer of infection to nearby tissues: bones, subcutaneous fat, skin;
• blockage by blood clots of veins adjacent to inflamed lymph nodes;
• violation of lymphatic drainage, edema, “elephantiasis” of the limbs.

What can not be done with enlarged lymph nodes?

– If you notice an increase in lymph nodes, then it is strongly not recommended to ignore it, heat or apply ice, make lotions without the permission of a doctor. Also, do not smear with anti-inflammatory ointments (you will reduce one lymph node and decide that you are cured, and if it is an oncology?), squeeze and massage the lymph node.

The patient does not know in which direction the lymph flows from this or that lymph node, and if you make the wrong movements, stagnation can be provoked.

Which doctor treats lymph nodes?

— All roads lead to a therapist. After examination and examination, a specialist can identify what lymphadenitis is associated with, treat acute respiratory infections or refer to an ENT doctor, an infectious disease specialist if an infectious process is detected. If an autoimmune disease is detected, your doctor is a rheumatologist, and in case of suspicion of leukemia or lymphoma, an oncologist.

Sources:

1. Semioshko N.V. Lymph nodes adjacent to the celiac trunk // BBC 28.706 Ya431 V 38. – 2014. – P. 111. http://sno.grsmu.by/conference/mk47.pdf#page=111
2. Pogrelchuk O.E., Danko E.S. Blood and lymph. Hematopoiesis // In the world of scientific discoveries. – 2018. – S. 219-221. https://www.elibrary.ru/download/elibrary_36443065_39723184.pdf
3. Dvoretsky L.I. Differential diagnosis in lymphadenopathy // Handbook of a polyclinic doctor. – 2005. – no. 2.