What are the common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the neck. How can you identify if your cervical lymph nodes are enlarged. When should you seek medical attention for swollen lymph nodes. What treatments are available for enlarged cervical lymph nodes.

Understanding Cervical Lymph Nodes and Their Function

Cervical lymph nodes are small, kidney-shaped structures located in the neck region. They play a crucial role in the body’s immune system by filtering out harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi before they can enter the bloodstream. When these lymph nodes become enlarged, it often indicates that the body is fighting off an infection or dealing with another health condition.

The cervical lymph nodes are part of a larger network known as the lymphatic system, which includes organs and tissues that support immunity. This system acts as a defense mechanism, trapping and eliminating potential threats to our health.

Where are cervical lymph nodes located?

Cervical lymph nodes can be found in various areas of the neck, including:

• The front of the neck
• The sides of the neck
• The back of the neck

Typically, these nodes are smaller than 1 centimeter in diameter. If they become larger than this, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires attention.

Common Causes of Enlarged Cervical Lymph Nodes

There are numerous reasons why cervical lymph nodes may become swollen. While infections are the most common cause, other factors can contribute to this condition. Here are some of the primary causes:

Infections

Infections are the most frequent reason for enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Some common infections that can lead to swelling include:

• Ear infections
• Dental infections
• Skin infections
• Acne
• Salivary gland infections
• COVID-19
• Common cold or flu
• Tonsillitis
• Glandular fever (mononucleosis)

When an infection occurs, the lymph nodes in the affected area fill with white blood cells to combat the pathogens. This accumulation of cells causes the nodes to swell.

Autoimmune Diseases

Certain autoimmune conditions can cause lymph node swelling throughout the body, including the cervical region. Examples include:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sjögren’s syndrome

Inflammatory Conditions

Inflammatory disorders can also lead to enlarged cervical lymph nodes. These may include:

• Sarcoidosis
• Kawasaki disease

Cancer

While less common, certain types of cancer can cause swelling in the cervical lymph nodes. These include:

• Hodgkin lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• Head and neck cancers

Recognizing Symptoms of Enlarged Cervical Lymph Nodes

Identifying swollen cervical lymph nodes can be challenging, as they may not always be visible or easily palpable. However, there are several signs and symptoms that can indicate their presence:

Physical symptoms

• Visible or palpable bumps beneath the skin in the neck area
• Pain or tenderness when touching the affected area
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (in severe cases)

General symptoms

Depending on the underlying cause, you may experience additional symptoms such as:

• Fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss

It’s important to note that the specific symptoms can vary depending on the cause of the swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosing Enlarged Cervical Lymph Nodes

If you suspect that you have swollen cervical lymph nodes, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis. The diagnostic process may involve:

Physical examination

A doctor will typically begin by examining your neck, feeling for any lumps or swollen areas. They may also check for other symptoms and ask about your medical history.

Imaging tests

Depending on the initial findings, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as:

• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• MRI

These tests can provide detailed images of the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues, helping to identify any abnormalities.

Blood tests

Blood tests may be ordered to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other underlying conditions.

Biopsy

In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the cause of the swollen lymph nodes. This involves removing a small sample of tissue for laboratory analysis.

Treatment Options for Enlarged Cervical Lymph Nodes

The treatment for swollen cervical lymph nodes depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Addressing infections

If an infection is the cause, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for viral infections
• Over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort

Managing autoimmune diseases

For autoimmune conditions, treatment may involve:

• Immunosuppressant medications
• Corticosteroids
• Biologic therapies

Cancer treatment

If cancer is the underlying cause, treatment options may include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Targeted therapies
• Immunotherapy
• Surgery

Supportive care

In addition to specific treatments, supportive care measures can help alleviate symptoms:

• Applying warm compresses to reduce pain and swelling
• Getting adequate rest to support the immune system
• Staying hydrated
• Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients

When to Seek Medical Attention

While swollen cervical lymph nodes are often not a cause for immediate concern, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. You should consult a healthcare provider if:

• The swelling persists for more than two weeks
• The lymph nodes continue to enlarge or become hard and fixed in place
• You experience unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever
• The swollen nodes are accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing
• You notice red, inflamed skin over the swollen lymph nodes

Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially in cases where the swelling is caused by a serious underlying condition.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

While it’s not always possible to prevent enlarged cervical lymph nodes, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and maintain overall health:

Boost your immune system

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Get regular exercise
• Ensure adequate sleep
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation

Practice good hygiene

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Keep your living and working spaces clean

Stay up-to-date on vaccinations

Keeping your vaccinations current can help prevent infections that may lead to swollen lymph nodes.

Regular check-ups

Attend regular medical check-ups to catch any potential issues early.

By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for enlarged cervical lymph nodes, you can better manage your health and seek appropriate care when needed. Remember that while swollen lymph nodes can be concerning, they are often a sign that your body is working hard to fight off an infection or other health challenge. With proper attention and care, most cases of enlarged cervical lymph nodes can be effectively managed and resolved.

Swollen cervical lymph nodes: What does it mean?

Cervical lymph nodes are small nodes or glands in the neck. Swelling in the neck may indicate a nearby infection or other health condition.

The lymphatic system is a network of organs and tissues that helps support immunity. The lymph nodes are tiny, kidney-shaped structures that act as filters in this system. They trap and kill viruses, bacteria, and fungi before these pathogens can return to the bloodstream.

Swollen lymph nodes are usually a sign of infection but can stem from an inflammatory condition, an autoimmune disease, a reaction to a medication, or cancer. Sometimes they happen for no clear reason.

Swelling in the cervical lymph nodes may indicate a problem in the head, neck, throat, or lymphatic system.

This article outlines the potential causes of swollen cervical lymph nodes and information on treatment options and when to see a doctor.

Share on PinterestCoronation Dental Specialty Group, CC BY-SA 4. 0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. They can enlarge when the system is defending the body from a nearby infection.

Cervical lymph nodes are in the front, sides, and back of the neck. They are usually smaller than 1 centimeter in diameter. If they are bigger, this could be a sign of an infection or other health problem, such as:

• an ear infection
• a dental infection
• a skin infection
• acne
• a salivary gland infection
• inflammation due to hair dye use or tight hair braids
• COVID-19
• a cold or flu
• tonsillitis
• glandular fever (mononucleosis or mono)
• some types of cancer

Lymph nodes can also become noticeable under the chin, under the arms, and around the groin, depending on where an infection occurs.

A person may or may not be able to feel if their cervical lymph nodes are swollen. However, a doctor may be able to feel one or more bumps beneath the skin when examining the neck region.

The precise symptoms that may occur with swollen lymph nodes will depend on the cause, but common symptoms of an infection include:

• fever or chills
• a general feeling of being unwell, known as malaise
• fatigue
• body aches
• pain or tenderness around the swollen nodes

Many conditions can cause swollen cervical lymph nodes, each with its own symptoms.

Here are some possible causes:

• infections
• autoimmune diseases
• inflammatory conditions
• tumors or cancer
• genetic conditions present since birth
• medication use or exposure to toxins

Here we look at some examples.

Infection

Infection is a common cause of swollen lymph nodes anywhere in the body.

When an infection occurs somewhere in the body, the lymph nodes in that area fill with white blood cells. The white blood cells then start to destroy the pathogens responsible for the infection.

The accumulation of white blood cells in the lymph nodes causes them to swell.

Some common infections that may lead to swollen cervical lymph nodes include:

• the common cold
• strep throat or tonsillitis
• ear infections
• dental infections

Additional signs of infection depend on the specific illness but may include:

• sore throat
• coughing
• earache
• fever
• fatigue

Lymph nodes that swell due to infection may be painful when a person touches them. They usually return to their usual size once the infection clears.

HIV

Swollen lymph nodes are common in the early or acute stage of HIV infection. At this stage, the body starts fighting the infection.

Research suggests the virus reaches nearby lymph nodes 3–6 days after infection. Noticeable symptoms occur in around two-thirds of people within 2–4 weeks.

They include swelling in the lymph nodes. Swelling can affect any lymph nodes but commonly occurs in the cervical lymph nodes.

A 2016 study investigated lymph node abnormalities in 100 people with HIV and swollen lymph nodes. Of the participants, 60% had swelling in the cervical lymph nodes.

Other symptoms of the early or acute stage of HIV include:

• sore throat
• mouth ulcers
• night sweats
• muscle aches
• fever and chills
• fatigue
• a rash

Cancer

Swollen cervical lymph nodes can sometimes be a sign of cancer.

Cancers that can cause swelling in the lymph nodes are:

• Hodgkin lymphoma, which commonly appears first in the neck and usually affects young adults
• chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of blood cancer that may cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck, above the collarbone, and under the arms
• non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which can develop in lymph nodes anywhere in the body and is most common among people aged 64–74 years
• other cancers, especially head and neck cancers, which can spread to the cervical lymph nodes

Other symptoms that may occur with all these conditions include:

• fever
• night sweats
• fatigue
• unexplained weight loss

The outlook for most cancers is better if a person seeks early treatment.

Medication side effects

Rarely, swollen lymph nodes can occur as a side effect of a medication. When medication is the cause, swelling may develop in any of the nodes, including the cervical lymph nodes.

Medications and toxins that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:

• allopurinol (Zyloprim), used for gout
• atenolol (Tenormin), used for blood pressure and heart disease
• captopril (Capoten), an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for blood pressure
• carbamazepine (Tegretol), an anti-seizure and epilepsy medication
• cephalosporins, such as cephalexin (Keflex), an antibiotic
• hydralazine (Apresoline), a blood pressure medication
• penicillin
• phenytoin (Dilantin) and primidone (Mysoline), used to manage seizures
• quinidine (Quinidex), used for some irregular heartbeats
• sulfonamides, such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat psoriatic arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions

In rare cases, a chemotherapy drug known as granulocyte colony stimulating factor may also cause swelling of the lymph nodes.

What autoimmune conditions are there?

A doctor can usually detect a swollen cervical lymph node by feeling a person’s neck. They may do additional tests to find out why the swelling has occurred.

A doctor will likely ask about:

• other symptoms
• personal and family medical history
• medications used and possible exposure to toxins
• lifestyle habits
• recent travel
• recent exposure to other people who may have an infectious disease

They may also order the following diagnostic tests to find out the reason for swelling:

• blood tests
• throat culture
• CT or MRI scan
• X-rays

If necessary, the doctor may also perform a biopsy of the cervical lymph nodes to check for the presence of cancer cells.

The treatment options for swollen lymph nodes depend on the underlying cause.

Infectious causes

A swollen lymph node usually occurs as a result of infection. In such cases, the lymph node should return to its usual size once the infection has cleared.

Swollen lymph nodes typically do not require treatment unless they are painful. However, the following home remedies may help relieve discomfort:

• applying a warm compress several times per day
• taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• getting plenty of rest

A person should see their doctor if symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of a bacterial infection.

HIV

A person with HIV may receive antiretroviral medications to manage the virus. These drugs reduce the amount of the virus in a person’s blood and bodily fluids.

The drugs can reduce the viral load to where it is undetectable. Then, a person will no longer be able to pass on the disease. Many people can now live long and active lives with HIV, if they receive suitable treatment.

What does it mean when HIV is undetectable?

Cancer

Cancer treatments will depend on several factors, including:

• the type of cancer a person has
• the stage of the cancer
• the person’s overall health

Possible treatment options include:

• chemotherapy
• radiation therapy
• immunotherapy

In most cases, swollen cervical lymph nodes indicate the body is fighting an infection. Infections often go away without treatment, and the node should return to its usual size once the infection clears.

A person should seek medical advice if they experience:

• severe symptoms, such as pain, a high fever, or difficulty breathing
• swelling that lasts longer than 2 weeks
• additional symptoms, such as night sweats and a persistent fever
• swelling with no other symptoms, which may be a sign of cancer or an autoimmune disease
• a hard and painless swelling in the lymph node
• a rapid change in the size of the lymph node
• swelling in more than one area of lymph nodes, such as in the neck and the groin

Swollen cervical lymph nodes are common. In most cases, swelling is a temporary response to an infection, but it can also be a sign of a more severe underlying health condition.

A person should see their doctor if the swelling persists, worsens, or if it is causing concern. A doctor will investigate the cause and recommend a suitable course of treatment.

Swollen cervical lymph nodes: What does it mean?

Cervical lymph nodes are small nodes or glands in the neck. Swelling in the neck may indicate a nearby infection or other health condition.

The lymphatic system is a network of organs and tissues that helps support immunity. The lymph nodes are tiny, kidney-shaped structures that act as filters in this system. They trap and kill viruses, bacteria, and fungi before these pathogens can return to the bloodstream.

Swollen lymph nodes are usually a sign of infection but can stem from an inflammatory condition, an autoimmune disease, a reaction to a medication, or cancer. Sometimes they happen for no clear reason.

Swelling in the cervical lymph nodes may indicate a problem in the head, neck, throat, or lymphatic system.

This article outlines the potential causes of swollen cervical lymph nodes and information on treatment options and when to see a doctor.

Share on PinterestCoronation Dental Specialty Group, CC BY-SA 4. 0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lymph nodes are part of the immune system. They can enlarge when the system is defending the body from a nearby infection.

Cervical lymph nodes are in the front, sides, and back of the neck. They are usually smaller than 1 centimeter in diameter. If they are bigger, this could be a sign of an infection or other health problem, such as:

• an ear infection
• a dental infection
• a skin infection
• acne
• a salivary gland infection
• inflammation due to hair dye use or tight hair braids
• COVID-19
• a cold or flu
• tonsillitis
• glandular fever (mononucleosis or mono)
• some types of cancer

Lymph nodes can also become noticeable under the chin, under the arms, and around the groin, depending on where an infection occurs.

A person may or may not be able to feel if their cervical lymph nodes are swollen. However, a doctor may be able to feel one or more bumps beneath the skin when examining the neck region.

The precise symptoms that may occur with swollen lymph nodes will depend on the cause, but common symptoms of an infection include:

• fever or chills
• a general feeling of being unwell, known as malaise
• fatigue
• body aches
• pain or tenderness around the swollen nodes

Many conditions can cause swollen cervical lymph nodes, each with its own symptoms.

Here are some possible causes:

• infections
• autoimmune diseases
• inflammatory conditions
• tumors or cancer
• genetic conditions present since birth
• medication use or exposure to toxins

Here we look at some examples.

Infection

Infection is a common cause of swollen lymph nodes anywhere in the body.

When an infection occurs somewhere in the body, the lymph nodes in that area fill with white blood cells. The white blood cells then start to destroy the pathogens responsible for the infection.

The accumulation of white blood cells in the lymph nodes causes them to swell.

Some common infections that may lead to swollen cervical lymph nodes include:

• the common cold
• strep throat or tonsillitis
• ear infections
• dental infections

Additional signs of infection depend on the specific illness but may include:

• sore throat
• coughing
• earache
• fever
• fatigue

Lymph nodes that swell due to infection may be painful when a person touches them. They usually return to their usual size once the infection clears.

HIV

Swollen lymph nodes are common in the early or acute stage of HIV infection. At this stage, the body starts fighting the infection.

Research suggests the virus reaches nearby lymph nodes 3–6 days after infection. Noticeable symptoms occur in around two-thirds of people within 2–4 weeks.

They include swelling in the lymph nodes. Swelling can affect any lymph nodes but commonly occurs in the cervical lymph nodes.

A 2016 study investigated lymph node abnormalities in 100 people with HIV and swollen lymph nodes. Of the participants, 60% had swelling in the cervical lymph nodes.

Other symptoms of the early or acute stage of HIV include:

• sore throat
• mouth ulcers
• night sweats
• muscle aches
• fever and chills
• fatigue
• a rash

Cancer

Swollen cervical lymph nodes can sometimes be a sign of cancer.

Cancers that can cause swelling in the lymph nodes are:

• Hodgkin lymphoma, which commonly appears first in the neck and usually affects young adults
• chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of blood cancer that may cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck, above the collarbone, and under the arms
• non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which can develop in lymph nodes anywhere in the body and is most common among people aged 64–74 years
• other cancers, especially head and neck cancers, which can spread to the cervical lymph nodes

Other symptoms that may occur with all these conditions include:

• fever
• night sweats
• fatigue
• unexplained weight loss

The outlook for most cancers is better if a person seeks early treatment.

Medication side effects

Rarely, swollen lymph nodes can occur as a side effect of a medication. When medication is the cause, swelling may develop in any of the nodes, including the cervical lymph nodes.

Medications and toxins that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:

• allopurinol (Zyloprim), used for gout
• atenolol (Tenormin), used for blood pressure and heart disease
• captopril (Capoten), an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for blood pressure
• carbamazepine (Tegretol), an anti-seizure and epilepsy medication
• cephalosporins, such as cephalexin (Keflex), an antibiotic
• hydralazine (Apresoline), a blood pressure medication
• penicillin
• phenytoin (Dilantin) and primidone (Mysoline), used to manage seizures
• quinidine (Quinidex), used for some irregular heartbeats
• sulfonamides, such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) used to treat psoriatic arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions

In rare cases, a chemotherapy drug known as granulocyte colony stimulating factor may also cause swelling of the lymph nodes.

What autoimmune conditions are there?

A doctor can usually detect a swollen cervical lymph node by feeling a person’s neck. They may do additional tests to find out why the swelling has occurred.

A doctor will likely ask about:

• other symptoms
• personal and family medical history
• medications used and possible exposure to toxins
• lifestyle habits
• recent travel
• recent exposure to other people who may have an infectious disease

They may also order the following diagnostic tests to find out the reason for swelling:

• blood tests
• throat culture
• CT or MRI scan
• X-rays

If necessary, the doctor may also perform a biopsy of the cervical lymph nodes to check for the presence of cancer cells.

The treatment options for swollen lymph nodes depend on the underlying cause.

Infectious causes

A swollen lymph node usually occurs as a result of infection. In such cases, the lymph node should return to its usual size once the infection has cleared.

Swollen lymph nodes typically do not require treatment unless they are painful. However, the following home remedies may help relieve discomfort:

• applying a warm compress several times per day
• taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• getting plenty of rest

A person should see their doctor if symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatment. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of a bacterial infection.

HIV

A person with HIV may receive antiretroviral medications to manage the virus. These drugs reduce the amount of the virus in a person’s blood and bodily fluids.

The drugs can reduce the viral load to where it is undetectable. Then, a person will no longer be able to pass on the disease. Many people can now live long and active lives with HIV, if they receive suitable treatment.

What does it mean when HIV is undetectable?

Cancer

Cancer treatments will depend on several factors, including:

• the type of cancer a person has
• the stage of the cancer
• the person’s overall health

Possible treatment options include:

• chemotherapy
• radiation therapy
• immunotherapy

In most cases, swollen cervical lymph nodes indicate the body is fighting an infection. Infections often go away without treatment, and the node should return to its usual size once the infection clears.

A person should seek medical advice if they experience:

• severe symptoms, such as pain, a high fever, or difficulty breathing
• swelling that lasts longer than 2 weeks
• additional symptoms, such as night sweats and a persistent fever
• swelling with no other symptoms, which may be a sign of cancer or an autoimmune disease
• a hard and painless swelling in the lymph node
• a rapid change in the size of the lymph node
• swelling in more than one area of lymph nodes, such as in the neck and the groin

Swollen cervical lymph nodes are common. In most cases, swelling is a temporary response to an infection, but it can also be a sign of a more severe underlying health condition.

A person should see their doctor if the swelling persists, worsens, or if it is causing concern. A doctor will investigate the cause and recommend a suitable course of treatment.

Enlargement of cervical lymph nodes – causes, diagnosis and treatment

Enlargement of cervical lymph nodes (cervical lymphadenopathy) is the presence on the lateral and back surface of the neck of lymphoid tissue formations larger than 5 mm, having an elastic or dense texture. The symptom is observed with viral and bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract, inflammatory processes in the oropharynx, tumor formations of the neck and head. To determine the cause of lymphadenopathy, ultrasound, puncture biopsy, lymphography, and laboratory tests are prescribed. Symptoms are relieved with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, antiseptics.

Causes of enlarged cervical lymph nodes

This group of lymph nodes drains the head, neck, upper chest, proximal upper extremities. Accordingly, enlarged cervical nodes most often indicate the presence of thyroid diseases, inflammatory processes in the oropharynx, bacterial and viral infections. The symptom is pathognomonic for rubella, develops with measles, and can be detected with rarer infectious pathologies – ornithosis, Ebola and Marburg fever, mycoplasma infections.

Thyroid cancer

Thyroid neoplasias account for about 1.5% of all malignant neoplasms and in most cases are asymptomatic. The most typical variant is papillary cancer. Follicular tumors are quite common. With these volumetric formations, there is always an increase in the cervical lymph nodes, which indicates an increased proliferation of malignant thyrocytes, metastasis of tumor cells. Usually the lymph node remains soft and mobile for a long time, since the process does not affect the capsule and surrounding tissues.

Patients usually report an incidental thyroid nodule when it is 1 cm or larger. As the tumor grows, other manifestations join: cough, hoarseness associated with compression of neighboring anatomical structures. Large neoplasms can compress the airways, causing shortness of breath and suffocation. When cancer spreads beyond the capsule of the organ, an expansion of the subcutaneous venous network occurs, deformation of the contours of the neck. In elderly patients, cachexia increases.

Cervical lymphadenopathy is one of the signs of thyroid lymphoma, an aggressive neoplasia characterized by intensive growth and involvement of neighboring organs in the pathological process. The disease often develops against the background of autoimmune thyroiditis. The tumor grows rapidly, occupying a whole share of the organ. Patients themselves often find a woody density node, which is combined with an increase and compaction of the cervical lymph nodes on the side of the lesion. Compression of the surrounding tissues provokes dysphagia, paresis of the vocal cords, displaces the esophagus and trachea.

Organic diseases of the thyroid gland

In other lesions of the endocrine gland, an increase in lymph nodes is due to an increase in blood flow by 10-15 times, increased production and differentiation of normal lymphocytes in response to stimulation with foreign antigens. The size of the lymph nodes is more than 1 cm, they are elastic, not soldered to the surrounding tissues, sometimes they are sensitive to palpation. The symptom is typical for acute inflammatory processes, but it also occurs with benign neoplasms, chronic autoimmune thyroiditis. Lead to cervical lymphadenopathy:

• Acute thyroiditis . The disease begins suddenly with a sharp pain in the thyroid gland, which radiates to the lower jaw, ear. Lymph nodes increase on both sides, become very painful, redness of the skin is noted. Purulent thyroiditis occurs with an increase in temperature to febrile numbers, severe symptoms of intoxication. There may be complaints of a feeling of pressure and fullness in the neck, an increase in symptoms when coughing.
• Nodules and cysts. According to statistics, various benign tumors of the thyroid gland are detected in 10% of the population, but more often they are asymptomatic. An increase in lymph nodes in the cervical region occurs with inflammation or suppuration of cysts, hormonally active neoplasia. Lymph nodes are elastic, almost painless, the skin over them is not changed. A detailed clinical picture of thyroid lesions is observed with hyperproduction of hormones – thyrotoxicosis.

Rubella and measles

Cervical lymphadenopathy involving the posterior cervical and occipital nodes is an important symptom of rubella. Lymph nodes are moderately enlarged, painless, not soldered to the surrounding skin. For children, the appearance of “buckshot” lymph nodes is typical – multiple small formations on the neck. Simultaneously with lymphadenopathy, a rash occurs – punctate or papular rashes are localized on the extensor surfaces of the limbs, in the region of the trunk and head. The rash disappears in a few days, leaving no peeling and pigmentation.

Lymphadenitis with an increase in cervical lymph nodes develops in the catarrhal stage of measles. Lymphadenopathy is combined with rhinitis, conjunctivitis, hyperemia of the pharynx and puffiness of the face. In adults, the manifestations of the catarrhal period are less pronounced. The pathognomonic sign of measles is Belsky-Filatov-Koplik spots on the buccal mucosa. After 4-5 days, a second wave of fever begins, which coincides with the appearance of a maculopapular rash. On the 1st day, the rashes are located on the face and neck, by the end of the first day they spread to the trunk, on the third day the rash goes to the limbs.

Other infectious diseases

Cervical lymphadenopathy is detected in various infections occurring in the oral cavity, ENT organs. Possible manifestation of a symptom in systemic bacterial and protozoal lesions – anginal-bubonic form of tularemia, sleeping sickness, diphtheria. Enlargement of lymph nodes is associated with the primary penetration and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms, intensive proliferation and accumulation of specific clones of lymphocytes in the follicular and paracortical zones. With the defeat of the cervical lymphoid formations proceed:

• Congenital listeriosis . Infectious pathology develops with transplacental or intranatal infection of the child and manifests itself in the first days after birth. The defeat of the cervical nodes is combined with febrile body temperature, roseolous or hemorrhagic rash, granulomas on the oral mucosa. The late form is accompanied by muscle tremor, convulsive syndrome, enlargement of the liver and spleen.
• Syphilis . After entering the body, pale treponema multiplies in the regional lymph nodes, causing their increase. Cervical lymphadenopathy is often observed when the pathogen penetrates through the mucous membrane of the oral cavity or lips, where the primary affect is localized – hard chancre. A month later, the chancre disappears on its own, then a polymorphic rash appears, which indicates the generalization of the infection and the development of secondary syphilis.
• Brucellosis . In the prodromal period, patients complain of myalgia, arthralgia, and headaches. A fever then sets in, lasting from a few days to 3 weeks, alternating with profuse sweats. At the height of the temperature, there is hyperemia of the face, an increase in the cervical and axillary lymph nodes, which can be painful on palpation. In the acute form, small fibrous formations appear along the tendons.
• Inguinal lymphogranulomatosis . An increase in the lymph nodes of the neck and submandibular region is noted in the secondary period with the localization of the primary affect (ulcer) in the area of ​​the oral mucosa and pharynx. As the disease progresses, lymphoid formations turn into large-tuberous tumors and lose mobility. In the future, the nodes suppurate, fever, intoxication join, fistulas form.
• Tonsillitis, pharyngitis . The reaction of the cervical lymph nodes is detected with tonsillitis, which is due to increased antigenic stimulation of lymphoid formations. The symptom is accompanied by sore throat, reddening of the pharynx and tonsils, fever. On the surface of the tonsils, yellowish dots or widespread plaque can be seen. An increase in lymph nodes is also found in herpetic pharyngitis, which is characterized by a vesicular rash on the pharyngeal mucosa.

Severe cases of tonsillitis may be complicated by retropharyngeal abscess – purulent inflammation of the pharyngeal tissue. In addition to lymphadenopathy of the upper cervical and occipital lymph nodes, the patient is concerned about sharp pains in the throat, difficulty swallowing, with a large abscess, respiratory disorders are possible. The general condition is disturbed, the body temperature rises to 39-40 ° C. An increase in lymph nodes, combined with damage to the jugular vein and septicemia, is pathognomonic for Lemierre’s syndrome. In children, cervical lymphadenopathy often indicates adenoiditis.

Tumors of the head and neck

Lymph from the face and neck enters directly into the cervical lymph nodes, therefore, in various malignant tumors of this zone, they are a typical site of metastasis. Lymph nodes are usually woody in density, tightly connected to the skin and surrounding tissue, and are not painful. Lymphadenopathy in certain types of tumors is the initial sign of the disease, when the primary neoplasm does not yet cause clinical symptoms. Enlargement of lymph nodes is observed in malignant neoplasias such as:

• Neoplasms of the jaws. The tumor may be characterized by exophytic growth with the formation of a protruding nodule with ulceration. It is possible to proceed as a long-term non-healing ulcer with purulent-sanitary discharge. Bone damage (osteosarcoma) is evidenced by shooting pains, loosening and loss of teeth. Lymph nodes are enlarged on both sides, have a stony density, soldered to the skin, subcutaneous tissue.
• Tongue cancer . Although with neoplasia of this localization, an increase in the submandibular lymph nodes is more often noted, sometimes metastasis also occurs in the cervical group. Neoplasia of the tongue looks like a diffuse thickening of the organ with the formation of ulcers or local outgrowth of tissue. Pain syndrome appears early, eating disorders are expressed, emaciation progresses.
• Neoplasms of ENT organs. Cervical lymphadenopathy is a symptom of epithelial tumors of the nasopharynx, which are also manifested by nosebleeds, difficulty breathing. The symptom is determined with esthesioneuroblastoma and is combined with anosmia, nasal congestion, mucous secretions. Sometimes a unilateral enlargement and induration of the lymph nodes indicates ear neoplasia (basaliomas, epitheliomas, sarcomas).
• Tumors of the eyes. Enlarged nodes are observed at an advanced stage of conjunctival neoplasms, when malignant cells grow into the surrounding tissues, spread by lymphogenous and hematogenous routes. An increase in the lymph nodes of the submandibular region and neck occurs with melanoma of the eye – an aggressive neoplasm of pigment cells that progresses rapidly with the development of distant metastases.
• Thymoma . An increase in cervical lymphoid structures is detected in benign and malignant tumors of the thymus gland. Invasive neoplasm growth causes a compression syndrome with intense retrosternal pain, dry cough, and difficulty breathing. With compression of the peripheral nerves, Horner’s syndrome, hoarseness, and dysphagia occur. About 30% of cases of the disease are accompanied by myasthenia gravis.

Systemic lesions of the lymphoid tissue

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck may be the first sign of lymphogranulomatosis – malignant hyperplasia of the lymphoid tissue with the formation of specific granulomas. The disease is characterized by the appearance of dense painless nodes, which are arranged in the form of a chain. In the local form of the lesion, an increase in one group of lymph nodes occurs, in the generalized form, total lymphadenopathy develops with damage to the internal organs. Cervical lymph nodes are affected in chronic lymphocytic leukemia, autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome.

Examination

Enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes, which is not accompanied by other symptoms, is an indication for a consultation with a hematologist. When lymphadenopathy is combined with signs of damage to the organs of the respiratory, digestive systems, consultations of other specialists may be required. Diagnosis involves assessing the state of pathologically altered lymph nodes and identifying the cause of the condition. The most valuable are:

• Ultrasound . Ultrasound of the lymph node is performed to study the morphological structure of the affected tissue, the method allows you to detect hyperechoic and hypoechoic zones. Additionally, thyroid ultrasound and thymic sonography are recommended to determine the underlying cause of lymphadenopathy.
• Blood tests . Infectious and hematological diseases, in which an increase in cervical lymph nodes is possible, are characterized by changes in blood counts. Patients are prescribed a standard general analysis, a biochemical study, and the determination of the level of acute phase indicators.
• Lymph node biopsy. Sampling of cytological material from the affected organ with subsequent histological examination is recommended to verify the diagnosis. The method is mainly used for the differential diagnosis of malignant tumors of the lymphoid tissue and metastases with other diseases.
• Lymphography . A radionuclide study of the lymphatic system with the help of the introduction of a special radiopharmaceutical is prescribed to study the ways of lymphatic drainage and exclude oncopathology. The method is widely used for the neck area, since standard radiography is difficult.

A further list of studies is formed taking into account the patient’s complaints. Often, an examination of the upper respiratory tract is required – pharyngoscopy, rhinoscopy, laryngoscopy. To confirm the infectious etiology of the process, specific serological reactions are performed (RIF, ELISA, PCR). If there is a suspicion of a connection between the defeat of the cervical lymphatic structures and the pathology of the thyroid gland, a blood test is performed for triiodothyronine and thyroxine, scintigraphy with radioactive iodine.

Symptomatic therapy

In infectious diseases with lesions of the pharynx to relieve local symptoms, gargling with an antiseptic solution is recommended, inhalations and plenty of warm drinks are useful. To relieve pain in the neck and ENT organs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics are prescribed. Etiotropic treatment is selected only after consulting a specialist. With a combination of cervical lymphadenopathy with febrile fever, palpable formations of the head, neck, and a rapid deterioration in the general condition, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

A lump on the neck jumped up – causes, symptoms and treatment

• Children’s Medical Center “Pediatrician and Me”

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  Articles

• Bump on the neck

Often, after a cold or viral illness, small swelling can be found on the neck. These are painless formations that can be located both separately and merge into a conglomerate. They can be found on the sides of the neck, under the jaw, in the back of the head, or anywhere else. Even if the bump does not cause you tangible discomfort, you should seek medical advice from a pediatrician or therapist.

What is hidden behind the bump on the neck?

Already at the first consultation, an experienced doctor can determine the type of formation and choose the appropriate treatment. In this case, the specialist performs palpation and asks the patient questions about concomitant or previous diseases. All this allows you to identify more accurate causes of swelling. Most often, a lymph node enlarged several times is hidden behind a bump on the neck. Let’s see why the lymph nodes increase in size and how dangerous this condition is?

There are a large number of lymph nodes in our body. All of them act as a kind of filter through which the lymph passes. They are located in small groups next to large blood vessels. In total, there are about 500 lymph nodes in the human body. Lymph passing through the lymph nodes is cleared of pathogens and other potentially dangerous agents. Here it is saturated with vitamins and immune cells, after which it enters the bloodstream and transfers all the received substances to the blood.

Lymph nodes are usually invisible to the naked eye and hardly palpable. However, as soon as pathogenic bacteria enter the body, active work begins inside the nodes. Here the production and maturation of lymphocytes and the destruction of bacteria take place. As a result of active work, the nodes increase in size and become visible under the skin. In some cases, the swelling may be painful to the touch.

Cervical lymph nodes protect the organs of the neck and tissues located in the face and head. It is to them that the lymph that passes through these tissues flows. Normal sizes of lymph nodes can range from 5 to 10 mm. In fact, this is an approximate indicator, since each person’s lymph nodes can be smaller or larger in size. Depending on which group of lymph nodes is inflamed, one can judge a particular problem. For example, enlargement of nodes under the jaw or on the sides of the neck may indicate problems with the nasopharynx, tonsils, and diseases of the upper respiratory tract. With problems with the teeth, the nodes on the chin most often become inflamed. Lymph nodes on the back of the neck and the back of the head react to any viral infections, including their increase may indicate a rubella disease.

Diagnosis of inflammation of the lymph nodes

At the initial stage of diagnosis, the doctor performs palpation of the swelling. This is necessary to determine the texture of the node, its soreness and mobility. The specialist also carefully examines the surrounding tissues, which can also respond to inflammation. In addition to palpation and visual examination, the following diagnostic methods can be used:

• Ultrasound. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to study the lymph nodes. Ultrasound allows you to determine the size of the node with maximum accuracy, to see its structure and to detect the inflammatory process in time. Also, with the help of ultrasound, it is possible to stop the development of a purulent process in the tissues of the lymph node in time.
• Blood test. A general blood test and biochemistry can detect pathogens of bacterial and viral infections that caused an increase in lymph nodes.
• Puncture of a lymph node. This procedure is prescribed to patients if the cause of the node enlargement has not been found. Also, a tissue study is necessary if a malignant process in the body is suspected.
• Ultrasound of internal organs. If the number of inflamed lymph nodes causes suspicion or concern in the doctor, he may prescribe an ultrasound examination of the internal organs.

It is possible to judge the safety of education in the neck area only after a comprehensive examination. Pediatricians, therapists, surgeons and other specialists are involved in the treatment of an enlarged lymph node. An inflamed lump may decrease over time after a person recovers, or it may stick out under the skin in the form of a tubercle for a long time. If there are no foci of inflammation left in the body, the size of the lymph node will gradually decrease until it reaches normal parameters.

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The article was written under the editorship of an expert, pediatrician, doctor of the highest category Storcheus Natalia Yurievna. To undergo the treatment mentioned in the article materials, you need to contact a specialist. The information in the article is not a call for self-treatment!

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