Where are lymph nodes located in the body. 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. How long do swollen lymph nodes typically last.

The Lymphatic System: An Overview of Its Functions and Components

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining our body’s health and immunity. This complex network of vessels, nodes, and organs serves two primary functions:

1. Fluid balance: It drains excess fluid (lymph) from body tissues and returns it to the bloodstream after filtration.
2. Immune defense: It helps the body recognize and fight against germs, infections, and other foreign substances.

Understanding the lymphatic system is essential for recognizing the significance of swollen lymph nodes and their implications for our health.

Key Components of the Lymphatic System

• Lymph vessels
• Lymph nodes
• Lymphatic ducts
• Organs (such as the spleen and thymus)

These components work together to filter lymph fluid, produce immune cells, and maintain the body’s defense against pathogens.

Anatomy of Lymph Nodes: Location and Function

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located throughout the body. They act as filters for the lymphatic system, trapping harmful substances and producing immune cells to combat infections. Understanding their location is crucial for identifying potential health issues.

Common Areas Where Lymph Nodes Can Be Felt

• Neck (cervical lymph nodes)
• Armpits (axillary lymph nodes)
• Groin (inguinal lymph nodes)
• Behind the ears (postauricular lymph nodes)
• Under the jaw and chin (submandibular and submental lymph nodes)
• Above the collarbone (supraclavicular lymph nodes)
• Back of the head (occipital lymph nodes)

These easily palpable areas are often the first places where swollen lymph nodes are noticed. In children, a lymph node is considered enlarged if it measures more than 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) in width.

Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes: From Common Infections to Serious Conditions

Swollen lymph nodes, medically known as lymphadenopathy, can be caused by various factors. While infections are the most common cause, other conditions can also lead to lymph node enlargement.

Common Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

• Viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu, mononucleosis)
• Bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, tooth abscess)
• Fungal infections
• Parasitic infections
• Skin infections
• Inflammatory conditions (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Certain medications
• Cancer (less common, but possible)

Can a minor infection cause swollen lymph nodes? Yes, even a trivial infection can lead to lymph node swelling as the immune system responds to the threat.

Recognizing Swollen Lymph Nodes: Signs and Symptoms

Identifying swollen lymph nodes is crucial for early detection of potential health issues. Here are some signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Visible swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Tenderness or pain when touching the affected area
• Redness of the skin over the swollen lymph node
• Warmth in the affected area
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing (if nodes in the neck are severely swollen)
• Fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss (in some cases)

How can you differentiate between normal and swollen lymph nodes? Normal lymph nodes are usually not noticeable and feel soft, small, and mobile. Swollen lymph nodes are typically larger, firmer, and may be tender to the touch.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Swollen Lymph Nodes

While many cases of swollen lymph nodes resolve on their own, certain situations warrant medical attention. Consider consulting a healthcare professional if:

• The swelling persists for more than two weeks
• The lymph nodes continue to enlarge or become hard and immobile
• You experience unexplained fever, night sweats, or weight loss
• The swollen area becomes red, tender, or warm to the touch
• You have difficulty swallowing or breathing
• You have a history of cancer or suspect a recurrence

Is it normal for lymph nodes to remain swollen after an infection has cleared? In most cases, lymph nodes should return to their normal size within a few weeks after the infection resolves. Persistent swelling may indicate an underlying issue that requires further investigation.

Diagnostic Approaches for Swollen Lymph Nodes

When evaluating swollen lymph nodes, healthcare providers may employ various diagnostic methods to determine the underlying cause. These approaches help distinguish between benign conditions and more serious health concerns.

Common Diagnostic Procedures

• Physical examination
• Medical history review
• Blood tests (e.g., complete blood count, C-reactive protein)
• Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan, MRI)
• Biopsy (if cancer is suspected)
• Specific tests for infections (e.g., throat culture, tuberculosis test)

How do doctors determine if swollen lymph nodes are cause for concern? They consider factors such as the size, location, and consistency of the nodes, as well as accompanying symptoms and the patient’s overall health history.

Treatment Options for Swollen Lymph Nodes

The treatment for swollen lymph nodes depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, the swelling resolves on its own as the body fights off the infection or inflammation. However, some situations may require specific interventions.

Common Treatment Approaches

• Watchful waiting for mild, self-limiting cases
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antiviral medications for certain viral infections
• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Warm compresses to alleviate pain and promote drainage
• Treatment of underlying conditions (e.g., autoimmune disorders, cancer)

Can swollen lymph nodes be treated at home? For minor cases, home remedies such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage symptoms. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.

Prevention and Management of Swollen Lymph Nodes

While it’s not always possible to prevent swollen lymph nodes, certain measures can help reduce the risk of infections and support overall lymphatic health:

• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support immune function
• Stay hydrated to promote lymph flow
• Exercise regularly to stimulate lymphatic circulation
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses
• Get vaccinated against preventable diseases
• Manage stress, which can impact immune function

How can you support lymphatic health in your daily life? Incorporating gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can help stimulate lymph flow. Additionally, staying well-hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can support overall lymphatic function.

Lymphatic Massage and Self-Care Techniques

Some individuals find relief through lymphatic massage or self-care techniques that promote lymph drainage. These methods may include:

• Gentle circular motions around swollen areas
• Light stretching exercises
• Deep breathing exercises
• Elevation of affected limbs

It’s important to note that these techniques should be performed gently and should not cause pain. Consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any self-care methods, especially if you have an underlying medical condition.

Swollen Lymph Nodes in Special Populations

Certain groups may experience swollen lymph nodes differently or may be at higher risk for specific causes. Understanding these variations is crucial for proper management and treatment.

Children and Swollen Lymph Nodes

Children often develop swollen lymph nodes in response to minor infections. Their immune systems are still developing, making them more susceptible to various pathogens. Common causes of swollen lymph nodes in children include:

• Upper respiratory infections
• Ear infections
• Strep throat
• Viral illnesses like chickenpox or measles

When should parents be concerned about swollen lymph nodes in children? While most cases are benign, parents should seek medical attention if the swelling is accompanied by high fever, difficulty breathing, or if it persists for more than two weeks.

Elderly Individuals and Swollen Lymph Nodes

In older adults, swollen lymph nodes may be a sign of more serious conditions due to age-related changes in the immune system. Potential causes unique to this population include:

• Age-related immune disorders
• Increased risk of certain cancers
• Medication side effects
• Chronic conditions affecting the lymphatic system

Elderly individuals should be particularly vigilant about unexplained or persistent lymph node swelling and consult their healthcare provider promptly.

Rare Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

While infections are the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes, several rare conditions can also lead to lymphadenopathy. Awareness of these less common causes can be crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Uncommon Conditions Associated with Swollen Lymph Nodes

• Sarcoidosis: A inflammatory disease affecting multiple organs
• Kikuchi disease: A rare, self-limiting condition causing lymph node swelling
• Castleman disease: A rare lymphoproliferative disorder
• Rosai-Dorfman disease: A rare histiocytic disorder
• Certain genetic disorders affecting the lymphatic system

How are rare causes of swollen lymph nodes diagnosed? These conditions often require specialized testing, including advanced imaging techniques, genetic testing, or biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.

The Role of Lymph Nodes in Cancer Detection and Staging

While most cases of swollen lymph nodes are benign, they can sometimes be an indicator of cancer. Understanding the relationship between lymph nodes and cancer is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.

Lymph Nodes and Cancer

• Lymphoma: Cancer that originates in the lymphatic system
• Metastatic cancer: Cancer that has spread from its original site to lymph nodes
• Leukemia: Can cause lymph node swelling in some cases

How do doctors determine if swollen lymph nodes are cancerous? A combination of physical examination, imaging studies, and biopsy may be used to differentiate between benign swelling and cancerous involvement of lymph nodes.

Lymph Node Staging in Cancer

In cancer diagnosis and treatment, lymph nodes play a crucial role in staging the disease. The TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis) uses lymph node involvement to help determine the extent of cancer spread and guide treatment decisions.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Lymphatic Health

The field of lymphatic health is continuously evolving, with new research shedding light on the complexities of the lymphatic system and its role in various diseases. Some areas of ongoing research include:

• Lymphatic system’s role in neurological diseases
• Development of targeted therapies for lymphatic disorders
• Advancements in imaging techniques for better lymph node visualization
• Exploration of the lymphatic system’s involvement in obesity and metabolic disorders

How might future research impact the diagnosis and treatment of swollen lymph nodes? Ongoing studies may lead to more precise diagnostic tools, targeted treatments, and a better understanding of the lymphatic system’s role in overall health.

Potential Breakthroughs in Lymphatic Health

Researchers are exploring various innovative approaches to improve lymphatic health and address related disorders:

• Gene therapy for lymphatic malformations
• Nanomedicine for targeted lymph node drug delivery
• Bioengineered lymphatic vessels for transplantation
• Immunotherapy approaches targeting the lymphatic system

These advancements hold promise for more effective treatments and better outcomes for individuals with lymphatic system disorders.

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Lymphatic Health

While we often focus on medical interventions for swollen lymph nodes, lifestyle factors play a significant role in maintaining overall lymphatic health. Understanding and addressing these factors can contribute to a well-functioning lymphatic system.

Diet and Lymphatic Health

A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support lymphatic function and overall immune health. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts)
• Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables
• Lean proteins to support immune cell production
• Adequate fiber to promote healthy digestion and reduce inflammation
• Hydrating foods and beverages to support lymph flow

How does diet impact lymphatic health? A nutrient-rich diet supports immune function, reduces inflammation, and promotes optimal lymph circulation, potentially reducing the risk of lymph node swelling.

Exercise and Lymphatic Circulation

Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy lymphatic system. Exercise helps stimulate lymph flow and supports overall immune function. Consider incorporating the following types of exercise:

• Aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling
• Yoga or gentle stretching exercises
• Rebounding (mini-trampoline exercises)
• Strength training to support muscle pump function

Swollen lymph nodes Information | Mount Sinai

Swollen glands; Glands – swollen; Lymph nodes – swollen; Lymphadenopathy

Lymph nodes are present throughout your body. They are an important part of your immune system. Lymph nodes help your body recognize and fight germs, infections, and other foreign substances.

The term “swollen glands” refers to enlargement of one or more lymph nodes. The medical name for swollen lymph nodes is lymphadenopathy.

In a child, a node is considered enlarged if it is more than 1 centimeter (0.4 inch) wide.

The lymphatic system has two main functions. Its network of vessels, valves, ducts, nodes, and organs helps balance the body’s fluid by draining excess fluid, known as lymph, from the body’s tissue and returning it to the blood after filtering it. Some types of blood cells are also made in the lymph nodes.
The lymphatic system also plays an important role in the body’s immune system.
Infection, even a trivial infection is, the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes.
Let’s look at a cut section of a lymph node to see what happens.
Afferent means towards. Afferent lymph vessels bring unfiltered fluids from the body into the lymph node where they are filtered.
Efferent vessels, meaning away from, carry the clean fluid away and back to the bloodstream where it helps form plasma.
When the body is invaded by foreign organisms, the swelling sometimes felt in the neck, armpits, groin, or tonsils comes from the microorganisms trapped inside the lymph nodes.
Eventually, these organisms are destroyed and eliminated by cells that line the node walls. Then the swelling and pain subside.

The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).

Swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, fatigue and headache are some of the symptoms of mononucleosis, which is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is generally self-limiting and most patients can recover in 4 to 6 weeks without medicines.

The lymphatic system is a complex system of fluid drainage and transport, and immune response and disease resistance. Fluid that is forced out of the bloodstream during normal circulation is filtered through lymph nodes to remove bacteria, abnormal cells and other matter. This fluid is then transported back into the bloodstream via the lymph vessels. Lymph only moves in one direction, toward the heart.

Lymph nodes produce immune cells to help fight infection. They also filter the lymph fluid and remove foreign material, such as bacteria and cancer cells. They can become swollen from inflammatory conditions, an abscess, cancer, and most commonly from infection. Common areas where lymph nodes can be felt include the groin, armpit, behind the ears, back of the head, sides of the neck and under the jaw and chin.

Lymph nodes play an important part in the body’s defense against infection. Swelling might occur even if the infection is trivial or not apparent. Swelling of lymph nodes generally results from localized or systemic infection, abscess formation, or malignancy.

Considerations

Common areas where the lymph nodes can be felt (with the fingers) include:

• Groin
• Armpit
• Neck (there is a chain of lymph nodes on either side of the front of the neck, both sides of the neck, and down each side of the back of the neck)
• Under the jaw and chin
• Behind the ears
• On the back of the head

Causes

Infections are the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes. Infections that can cause them include:

• Abscessed or impacted tooth
• Ear infection
• Colds, flu, and other infections
• Swelling (inflammation) of gums (gingivitis)
• Mononucleosis
• Mouth sores
• Sexually transmitted illness (STI)
• Tonsillitis
• Tuberculosis
• Skin infections

Immune or autoimmune disorders that can cause swollen lymph nodes are:

• HIV
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Cancers that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:

• Leukemia
• Hodgkin disease
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Many other cancers may also cause this problem.

Certain medicines can cause swollen lymph nodes, including:

• Seizure medicines, such as phenytoin
• Typhoid immunization

Which lymph nodes are swollen depends on the cause and the body parts involved. Swollen lymph nodes that appear suddenly and are painful are usually due to injury or infection. Slow, painless swelling may be due to cancer or a tumor.

Home Care

Painful lymph nodes are generally a sign that your body is fighting an infection. The soreness usually goes away in a couple of days without treatment. The lymph node may not return to its normal size for several weeks.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if:

• Your lymph nodes do not get smaller after several weeks or they continue to get larger.
• They are red and tender.
• They feel hard, irregular, or fixed in place.
• You have fever, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
• Any node in a child is larger than 1 centimeter (a little less than half inch) in diameter.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will perform a physical examination and ask about your medical history and symptoms. Examples of questions that may be asked include:

• When the swelling began
• If the swelling came on suddenly
• Whether any nodes are painful when pressed

The following tests may be done:

• Blood tests, including liver function tests, kidney function tests, and CBC with differential
• Lymph node biopsy
• Chest x-ray
• Liver-spleen scan

Treatment depends on the cause of the swollen nodes.

Tower RL, Camitta BM. Lymphadenopathy. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 517.

Winter JN. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 159.

Last reviewed on: 1/29/2022

Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Swollen lymph nodes – Symptoms & causes

Overview

Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer.

Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. They function as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria and other causes of illnesses before they can infect other parts of your body. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Lymph node locations

Your lymph nodes play a vital role in your body’s ability to fight off infections. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.

Swollen lymph nodes

One of the most common places to find swollen lymph nodes is in the neck. The inset shows three swollen lymph nodes below the lower jaw.

In some cases, the passage of time and warm compresses may be all you need to treat swollen lymph nodes. If an infection causes swollen lymph nodes, treatment depends on the cause.

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Symptoms

Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area.

Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice:

• Tenderness and pain in the lymph nodes
• Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodes

Depending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:

• Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection
• General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body. When this occurs, it may indicate an infection, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or mononucleosis, or an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
• Hard, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, indicating a possible cancer or lymphoma
• Fever
• Night sweats

When to see a doctor

Some swollen lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying condition, such as a minor infection, gets better. See your doctor if you’re concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes:

• Have appeared for no apparent reason
• Continue to enlarge or have been present for two to four weeks
• Feel hard or rubbery, or don’t move when you push on them
• Are accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss

Seek immediate medical care if you’re having difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Causes

Lymph nodes are small, round or bean-shaped clusters of cells. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause.

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly a viral infection, such as the common cold. Other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes include:

Common infections

• Strep throat
• Measles
• Ear infections
• Infected (abscessed) tooth
• Mononucleosis
• Skin or wound infections, such as cellulitis
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) — the virus that causes AIDS

Uncommon infections

• Tuberculosis
• Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis
• Toxoplasmosis — a parasitic infection resulting from contact with the feces of an infected cat or eating undercooked meat
• Cat scratch fever — a bacterial infection from a cat scratch or bite

Immune system disorders

• Lupus — a chronic inflammatory disease that targets your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and lungs
• Rheumatoid arthritis — a chronic inflammatory disease targeting the tissue that lines your joints (synovium)

Cancers

• Lymphoma — cancer that originates in your lymphatic system
• Leukemia — cancer of your body’s blood-forming tissue, including your bone marrow and lymphatic system
• Other cancers that have spread (metastasized) to lymph nodes

Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin (Dilantin) and preventive medications for malaria.

Complications

If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn’t treated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

Why the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed and what to do about it

Likbez

Health

June 25, 2022

Most likely, everything is fine with you. But just in case, check for dangerous symptoms.

You can listen to the short version of the article. If it’s more convenient for you, turn on the podcast.

What are lymph nodes

Lymph nodes, or lymph glands, are small formations in the neck, under the arms, in the groin and other areas located near the vital organs. The main function of the lymph nodes is to filter the lymph and help the body fight infections.

Everyone knows what lymph is in general terms. Its mixture with intercellular fluid is also called ichor. This is the same colorless liquid that appears on the wound if the skin is slightly damaged. But there is much more lymph in the body than it might seem. Moving through special vessels, it washes the cells of all organs and tissues, is considered a special type of connective tissue and one of the most important elements of immunity.

It is the lymph that flushes out dead cells, decay products, viruses, bacteria from the body.

Lymphocytes are the main cells of the immune system, capable of recognizing pathogens. Flowing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is filtered: viruses and bacteria linger in them and are destroyed.

When a person is healthy, the glands purify the lymph without undue stress. But if the viral or microbial attack is too strong, they have a hard time. The lymph nodes overflow with “garbage” that they do not have time to digest, become inflamed and become like peas rolling under the skin.

In general, swollen lymph nodes are a sign that an inflammatory process is developing somewhere nearby.

Why the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed

Here is a list of the most likely causes:

• Respiratory tract diseases – the same ARVI.
• Problems in the mouth or nasopharynx. For example, caries, pulpitis, inflammation in the sinuses, tonsillitis, labial herpes.
• General infections – chickenpox, measles, cytomegalovirus, mononucleosis.
• Skin infections – for example, inflammation resulting from an unsuccessful attempt to pop a pimple.
• Otitis.

However, there are more unpleasant causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes.

When to see a doctor with enlarged lymph nodes

Most often, enlarged lymph nodes are not an independent disease, but only a symptom. Therefore, they are usually accompanied by other signs of infection:

• general malaise and weakness;
• temperature increase;
• headache;
• sore throat, ears or mouth;
• runny nose, nasal congestion.

If you observe this, go to a therapist. Your doctor will help you quickly treat a cold, earache, or send you to the dentist if he thinks tooth decay may be the cause. As soon as you cope with the underlying disease, the lymph nodes will also deflate and cease to be a concern.

It is much worse if the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed, but you have no signs of SARS or other infections. In this case, we can talk about systemic inflammation – autoimmune diseases, oncological processes, HIV infection.

When to see a doctor immediately

Here is a list of symptoms, in case of any of which you should go to a therapist as soon as possible:

• The skin over the enlarged lymph node turned red and became hot – this indicates the beginning of a purulent process.
• Lymph nodes in the neck have increased for no apparent reason.
• Lymph glands became inflamed not only on the neck, but also in other places. For example, under the armpits, in the groin, on the elbows, above the collarbones.
• Knots don’t move when you try to push them down.
• Swollen lymph nodes accompanied by increased sweating, persistent fever (no other symptoms of infectious diseases), unexplained weight loss.
• You have difficulty swallowing or breathing.
• Lymph nodes do not return to normal size for two weeks or more.

Your doctor may send you to a surgeon to open an abscess. Perhaps they will offer to take a blood test, take an X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI, or take a piece of an enlarged lymph node for microscopic examination (this procedure is called a biopsy). Depending on the results of the tests, you will be given the appropriate treatment.

How to relieve the condition right now

There are several ways.

Make a warm compress

Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring it out well and apply it to your neck.

Attention: this method is not suitable if you observe symptoms of a purulent process – redness of the skin over the lymph node, an increase in its temperature. With these symptoms, you need to get to the doctor as soon as possible.

Take a pain reliever

Paracetamol is best. But aspirin and ibuprofen in some cases can do harm.

So, children, adolescents, and people who have problems with blood clotting should be careful with aspirin. In addition, both drugs are contraindicated in chickenpox. Therefore, it is better to consult with a therapist.

Get more rest

If possible, take sick leave or a couple of days off. Rest is necessary for the body to quickly cope with the disease.

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What to do if the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed

The enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, as a rule, occurs as a result of contact with bacteria and viruses. If the enlargement is caused by an infection, it is called lymphadenitis. Rarely, cancer can be the cause.

The lymphatic system plays a vital role in keeping our body alive and is a major component of our immunity. Lymph nodes can be felt in the neck, chin, armpits and groin. In some cases, no action is required for treatment and a warm compress is enough. Treatment depends on the cause.

Symptoms

The lymphatic system includes a network of organs and lymph nodes located throughout the body. Most of them are in the head and neck area. Swollen lymph nodes indicate that something is wrong in the body. The first signs are sensitivity, soreness and an increase in lymph nodes to the size of a bean and even more.

Depending on the cause of the appearance, the symptoms of the disease may be as follows:

Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other signs of an upper respiratory tract infection.
Swollen lymph nodes throughout the body may indicate HIV, mononucleosis, or immune disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Swollen limbs may indicate a blockage in the lymphatic system caused by tumors in the lymph nodes that are deep under the skin and cannot be felt.

When treatment of lymph nodes in the neck requires a visit to a doctor

Lymph nodes return to normal over time if the cause of the increase was an infection that has responded to treatment. But there are a number of factors in which you should consult a doctor:

• Swelling without apparent cause
• Duration 2-4 weeks
• Knots are difficult to feel and do not move when pressed
• Accompanied by persistent fevers, night sweats and weight loss
• Accompanied by sore throat and difficulty in swallowing.

Why lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed – causes

A lymph node is a small, round or bean-shaped cluster of cells covered with a capsule of connective tissue. The cells are a combination of lymphocytes that produce protein particles that fight viruses and macrophages that break down harmful substances. Lymphocytes and macrophages filter the lymphatic fluid that flows throughout the body and protects us.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, each of which serves a specific area of ​​the body. An increase in a specific area may suggest a cause. The most common is an infection, especially a viral one, such as a cold. But there are other types of lymphadenitis of the cervical lymph nodes , such as parasitic or bacterial, which can cause enlargement of the lymph nodes.

Common infections:

• Measles
• Ear infections
• Infection of the tooth – abscess
• Mononucleosis
• Skin infections
• HIV

Atypical infections:

• Tuberculosis
• Sexually transmitted (syphilis and others)
• Toxoplasmosis
• Cat scratch bacterial infection

Autoimmune diseases:

• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Cancer:

• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Other cancers that have spread to lymph nodes

Complications

If the cause is an infection and not properly treated, complications may occur.

Abscess formation. Localization of the accumulation of pus caused by infection. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, bacteria, and other harmful elements. If an abscess occurs, drainage or antibiotic treatment may be required. Significant damage can be done if vital organs are affected.

Bloodstream infection. Bacterial, can start anywhere in your body and progress to sepsis caused by significant blood poisoning. Sepsis can lead to multiple organ failure and death. Treatment includes hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.

Diagnosis

To diagnose an illness, your doctor may need to:

• Medical history
• Physical examination
• Blood test
• Chest x-ray and computed tomography
• Lymph node biopsy (as a last resort).

Treatment of lymph nodes in the neck

If the cause is a virus, the lymph nodes in the neck will recover on their own after the infection itself is treated. But if this does not happen or there is another reason, the following treatment may be required:

• Infection. The most common treatment for swollen lymph nodes is antibiotics. If the cause is HIV infection, treatment appropriate to the disease is required.
• Autoimmune disease. With lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, proper treatment of the disease itself is necessary.
• Cancer. Depending on the type and extent of development, surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy may be required.

Home treatment for lymph nodes in the neck

If your lymph nodes are swollen and painful, you can relieve symptoms in the following ways:

• Exposure to heat. Apply a warm, damp compress, such as a sponge soaked in hot water.
• Painkiller. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen can help relieve pain and bring down a fever. Do not give aspirin to children without the advice of a doctor.
• Rest. A good rest is sometimes all that is needed to bring your condition back to normal.