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Swollen lymph nodes in armpit and neck. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Medical Attention

What causes lymph nodes to swell. How to identify swollen lymph nodes. When should you be concerned about swollen lymph nodes. What are the treatment options for swollen lymph nodes. Can swollen lymph nodes be a sign of cancer.

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Understanding the Lymphatic System and Its Functions

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. This complex network of tissues and organs has three primary functions that significantly impact our daily lives:

  • Immune system support
  • Fluid drainage maintenance
  • Fat absorption assistance

At the heart of this system are lymph nodes – small, kidney bean-shaped structures that filter foreign substances and dangerous pathogens. There are approximately 500 to 600 lymph nodes scattered throughout the human body, clustered in specific areas such as behind the ears, in the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, and groin.

These nodes use lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells (lymphocytes), to trap and eliminate harmful substances. Under normal circumstances, lymph nodes remain unnoticeable. However, when they become enlarged or swollen, it’s often a sign that the body is actively fighting an infection or illness.

Identifying Swollen Lymph Nodes: Locations and Symptoms

Recognizing swollen lymph nodes is an essential skill for early detection of potential health issues. The most common areas where swollen lymph nodes can be detected include:

  1. Neck
  2. Armpits
  3. Groin

To check for lymph node swelling, gently press over these areas. Swollen lymph nodes may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Redness over the affected area
  • Tenderness or pain when touched
  • Increased size (typically larger than a pea)
  • Warmth in the surrounding skin

In addition to these localized symptoms, swollen lymph nodes may be accompanied by other signs of illness, such as:

  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Night sweats
  • Runny nose
  • Fatigue

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes swell as a response to various triggers, most commonly infections and illnesses. Some of the frequent causes include:

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections, such as strep throat or skin infections, can lead to swollen lymph nodes. The body’s immune response to these pathogens causes the lymph nodes to enlarge as they work to filter out harmful bacteria.

Viral Infections

Common viral infections like the flu, mononucleosis, or the common cold can result in swollen lymph nodes. As the body fights off these viruses, the lymph nodes may become enlarged and tender.

Fungal Infections

Although less common, fungal infections can also cause lymph node swelling. These infections may be more prevalent in individuals with weakened immune systems or those living in specific geographic areas.

Autoimmune Disorders

Certain autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to chronic lymph node swelling. In these cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation and enlarged lymph nodes.

Swollen Lymph Nodes and Cancer: Understanding the Connection

While most cases of swollen lymph nodes are benign and related to common infections, in some instances, they can be a sign of more serious conditions, including cancer. The most common types of cancer associated with swollen lymph nodes are:

  • Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s)
  • Leukemia
  • Breast cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Skin cancer (melanoma)

It’s important to note that cancer-related lymph node swelling often differs from that caused by infections. Cancer-related swelling tends to be painless, persistent, and may continue to grow over time. Additionally, cancerous lymph nodes may feel firmer or more fixed in place compared to those swollen due to infection.

Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Closer Look

Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, often presents with painless swelling in lymph nodes, typically in the neck, armpit, or groin area. Unlike swelling caused by infections, these enlarged nodes may persist for months or even years before being noticed. In some cases, they can grow rapidly.

Other symptoms associated with Hodgkin lymphoma include:

  • Heavy night sweats
  • Unexplained fever
  • Significant weight loss
  • Itching, which may worsen after alcohol consumption
  • Cough or shortness of breath
  • Abdominal pain or vomiting after drinking alcohol

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

While swollen lymph nodes are often harmless and resolve on their own, there are instances where medical evaluation is necessary. You should consult a healthcare professional if:

  • The swollen lymph node persists for more than two weeks
  • The node continues to enlarge or becomes hard and fixed in place
  • You experience unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fever
  • The swelling is accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • You notice redness or warmth around the swollen area, which could indicate an infection

Early detection and proper diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment, especially in cases where swollen lymph nodes may be indicative of a more serious underlying condition.

Diagnostic Procedures for Swollen Lymph Nodes

When evaluating swollen lymph nodes, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic techniques to determine the underlying cause. These procedures can include:

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination allows the doctor to assess the size, location, and consistency of the swollen lymph nodes. They may also check for other symptoms or signs of infection or illness.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can help identify infections, inflammatory conditions, or other abnormalities that might be causing the lymph node swelling. Common blood tests include:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) test
  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

Imaging Studies

Imaging techniques can provide detailed views of the affected lymph nodes and surrounding tissues. These may include:

  • Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the lymph nodes
  • CT scan: Provides cross-sectional images of the body
  • MRI: Offers detailed images of soft tissues
  • PET scan: Can help detect cancer and its spread

Biopsy

In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis. This involves removing a small sample of tissue from the affected lymph node for microscopic examination. Biopsies can be performed using various techniques, including:

  • Fine-needle aspiration
  • Core needle biopsy
  • Excisional biopsy

Treatment Options for Swollen Lymph Nodes

The treatment for swollen lymph nodes depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, especially when the swelling is due to minor infections, no specific treatment is necessary, and the nodes will return to normal size on their own. However, various treatment approaches may be recommended based on the diagnosis:

Addressing Infections

If the swollen lymph nodes are caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. For viral infections, supportive care and symptom management are typically recommended, as most viral infections resolve on their own.

Managing Underlying Conditions

For swollen lymph nodes related to autoimmune disorders or other chronic conditions, treatment focuses on managing the underlying disease. This may involve medications to suppress the immune system or reduce inflammation.

Cancer Treatment

If swollen lymph nodes are associated with cancer, treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer. Options may include:

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

Symptomatic Relief

To alleviate discomfort associated with swollen lymph nodes, the following measures may be helpful:

  • Applying warm compresses to the affected area
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Getting adequate rest to support the immune system
  • Staying hydrated

Preventing Lymph Node Swelling: Lifestyle and Health Considerations

While it’s not always possible to prevent lymph node swelling, certain lifestyle choices and health practices can help reduce the risk of infections and support overall lymphatic health:

Maintaining Good Hygiene

Proper hygiene practices can help prevent infections that may lead to swollen lymph nodes. This includes:

  • Regular handwashing
  • Practicing good oral hygiene
  • Keeping cuts and scrapes clean and covered

Boosting Immune Function

A strong immune system can help fight off infections more effectively. To support immune health:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices

Avoiding Exposure to Harmful Substances

Limiting exposure to toxins and irritants can help reduce the burden on your lymphatic system. Consider:

  • Quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke
  • Limiting alcohol consumption
  • Using natural cleaning products when possible

Regular Health Check-ups

Routine medical examinations can help detect potential issues early. This includes:

  • Annual physical exams
  • Age-appropriate cancer screenings
  • Prompt medical attention for persistent symptoms

Understanding the role of lymph nodes in our body’s defense system and recognizing when swelling may indicate a more serious condition is crucial for maintaining overall health. By staying informed and attentive to changes in our bodies, we can take proactive steps to address potential health concerns and seek timely medical care when necessary. Remember, while swollen lymph nodes are often benign, they can sometimes be a sign of more serious underlying conditions, making it important to consult with a healthcare professional when in doubt.

Symptoms | Hodgkin lymphoma | Cancer Research UK

The most common symptom of Hodgkin lymphoma is a painless swelling in a lymph node. This can be in an area of the body such as the neck, armpit or groin. 

Lymph nodes commonly swell if we have an infection but they usually go back to normal over a short time. With lymphoma, the lymph nodes often grow slowly and may be there for months or years before they’re noticed. But sometimes they grow very quickly.

Usually, the swollen nodes don’t hurt. But some people say their lumps ache or are painful. And for some they are painful after drinking alcohol. 

Other general symptoms

You might have other symptoms such as:

  • heavy sweating, especially at night
  • high temperatures that come and go with no obvious cause, often overnight
  • losing a lot of weight over a short period of time, despite eating well
  • itching, which may be worse after drinking alcohol
  • cough or shortness of breath
  • tummy (abdominal) pain or vomiting after drinking alcohol

Hodgkin lymphoma in the bone marrow

Some people have Hodgkin lymphoma in their bone marrow when they’re diagnosed. If you have this, it can cause the following symptoms:

  • shortness of breath and tiredness because of anaemia from a low red blood cell count
  • increased risk of infections because of a low white cell count
  • bleeding problems such as nosebleeds, very heavy periods, or a rash of tiny blood spots under the skin because of a low platelet count

Other possible symptoms

Other symptoms will depend on where in your body the Hodgkin lymphoma is. Swollen lymph nodes can:

  • press on nerves and cause pain
  • cause swelling in arms or legs by blocking the flow of lymphatic fluid around the body
  • cause yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) by blocking the flow of bile from the liver

None of these are common symptoms, but they can happen. You may also have small lumps (nodules) on your skin, usually near the swollen lymph nodes.

When to see your doctor

You should see your doctor if you have a swollen lymph node, especially if you haven’t had a recent infection, or you have any of the other symptoms mentioned here.

Although your symptoms are unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to get them checked by a doctor.

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    J Tobias and D Hochhauser
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  • Suspected cancer: recognition and referral
    National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), June 2015

  • Essential Haematology (8th edition)
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Last reviewed: 

17 Sep 2020

Next review due: 

17 Sep 2023