Swollen Lymph Nodes

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When an individual suffers from a bacterial or viral infection, such an individual may get swollen lymph nodes. Also known as lymphadenopathy, swollen lymph nodes, in some very rare cases, are caused by cancer. The lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which also comprises vessels and a network of organs. By serving as… Read More

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Swollen Lymph Nodes

When an individual suffers from a bacterial or viral infection, such an individual may get swollen lymph nodes. Also known as lymphadenopathy, swollen lymph nodes, in some very rare cases, are caused by cancer. The lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, which also comprises vessels and a network of organs.

By serving as filters and fighting infections, the lymph nodes prevent the entry of bacteria and viruses into the body. The lymph nodes can do this due to the stored white blood cells. The lymph nodes filter the lymph as it runs through the lymphatic system. Parts of the body where swollen lymph nodes may occur include the neck, the armpits, under the jaw, and even in the groin. 

Swollen lymph nodes are a result of the lymph nodes fighting off infections. The swelling is a response to the activity of the lymph nodes of the immune system. The location is usually the area affected by the infection. 

Swollen lymph nodes
Picture courtesy: Freepik

Based on the extent, lymphadenopathy can be classified into two:

  1. Localized lymphadenopathy – Here, the lymph nodes of a particular body region are swollen. 
  2. Generalized lymphadenopathy – This is the swelling of the lymph nodes in more than one body region. This is a result of systemic infection and will require immediate medical attention.

Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

causes of swollen lymph nodes
Picture Courtesy: verywellhealth

Generally, the lymph nodes are clusters of immune system cells. The lymph nodes are located in specific areas of the body. They are small and are either round or bean-shaped. The cells protect the body from foreign bodies by filtering the lymphatic fluid. Swollen lymph nodes are caused mainly by an infection such as a viral infection. The part of the body where the lymph nodes appear swollen may help a medical professional to detect the underlying cause.

Some other factors can cause swollen lymph nodes, and they are:

  • Common infections such as ear infections, measles, strep throat, mononucleosis, skin infections, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), tonsilitis, sinus infections, and tooth or gum infections.
  • Uncommon infections such as tuberculosis, cat scratch fever, toxoplasmosis, and some sexually transmitted infections (e.g., syphilis).
  • Cancers such as lymphoma, leukemia, and cancers such as lymphoma that can be transmitted to the lymph nodes.
  • Immune system disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
  • Rare cases include some medications (anti-seizure medication – phenytoin), malaria preventive medications, allergic reactions to drugs, and stress.

Swollen lymph nodes in the groin can be caused by sexually transmitted infections (gonorrhea and syphilis)

Symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes

The feeling of unusual pain can detect swollen lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes on the neck or under the jaw are characterized by the feeling of pain when eating or turning the neck. An individual experiencing swelling in the lymph nodes may have some of the symptoms listed below. Signs and symptoms may vary with respect to the cause of the swelling.

  • Tenderness of the lymph nodes
  • Pains
  • Swelling
  • Coughing
  • Chills 
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Night sweats

Some symptoms may be an indicator of a health condition. For example, when an individual’s lymph node is hard, fixed, and swelling rapidly, this could be a possible sign of cancer or lymphoma. In some cases where all the lymph nodes in the body are swelling, it could be an indication of certain health conditions, which include immune system disorder (lupus) or HIV, or mononucleosis. 

When to Seek Medical Advice

Swollen lymph nodes tend to go on their own after a while, and maybe with the application of a warm compress for ease. However, in cases where the occurrence of infection causes the swelling, then it may require treatment. It is advised to see a doctor when there are strange occurrences with swollen lymph nodes, such as:

  • Sudden appearance 
  • Occurrence of persistent fever, weight loss, or night sweats
  • Continuous swelling, especially if it remains for two to four weeks
  • Hard to touch
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Diagnosis

When an individual suffering from swollen lymph nodes visits a doctor, the doctor will do the following:

  • Ask for signs and symptoms experienced, when they began and how they started.
  • Ask about the individual’s medical history.
  • Conduct a physical examination
  • Carry out blood tests to confirm the cause of the swollen lymph nodes. The blood tests will help check the general health of the individual as well as detect the presence of any disorder.
  • Use imaging studies such as a chest X-ray, ultrasounds, computerized tomography (CT) scan, and maybe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study the affected areas of the body.
  • Take a sample of the lymph node or an entire lymph node to conduct a lymph node biopsy.

Treatment of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Sometimes, the swollen lymph nodes tend to go on their own without any form of treatment. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes and a good home remedy are needed to get rid of the swelling of a lymph node. 

  • It is always essential to get good quality sleep and adequate rest. This will assist in recovery.
  • One can get relief from the pains of a swollen lymph node by applying a warm compress to the affected area.
  • Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, can help with swollen lymph nodes.
  • An individual may result in taking over-the-counter pain relief medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen.

Not treating swollen lymph nodes could lead to complications. It is always best to see a doctor to prevent these complications once the signs and symptoms have been noticed. After diagnosing the condition and determining the root cause of the swollen lymph node, the doctor will know what treatment will work best for it. A swollen lymph node is treated based on the cause.  

  • If caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics are applied to treat it.
  • Swollen lymph nodes caused by viral infections cannot be treated by administering antibiotics; rather, antiviral infections are employed.
  • When an immune disorder is the cause of the lymph node swelling, specific treatments which will be directed at the underlying disorder are employed.
  • For those caused by cancer, treatments such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy will be performed. The type of cancer is the determining factor for the treatment method.

Complications

Left untreated, swollen lymph nodes caused by infections can lead to the formation of an abscess. An abscess is a collection of pus that contains dead tissue, foreign bodies, white blood cells, and fluid. Treating an abscess requires the application of antibiotics and draining it completely.

Prevention of Swollen Lymph Nodes

  • Avoid sharing personal items and foodstuff with individuals suffering from a communicable infection such as a cold.
  • Practice regular washing of the hands.
  • Timely vaccination against conditions such as the flu, shingles, and tuberculosis can help. 
  • Always practice proper dental hygiene.
  • Always seek advice from a doctor when experiencing an allergic reaction when on medications.

To conclude, swollen lymph nodes are the body’s response to fighting infections. They are caused mainly by infections and sometimes by cancers, immune system disorders, or certain medications. They can cause different symptoms, from pains to night sweats; and they can resolve on their own within two weeks, but it is essential to seek medical help if it extends this duration. The doctor will recommend treatment after diagnosis with reference to the cause of the swelling.

FAQ

What causes swollen lymph nodes?

Bacterial or viral infections can cause swollen lymph nodes. In rare cases, cancers, immune system disorders, or certain medications (antimalarial or anti-seizure) can cause the lymph nodes to swell.

How can one treat swelling lymph nodes on the neck in a natural way?

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can be treated by: 
1)       applying a warm compress, 
2)       taking over-the-counter pain relief medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen,
3)       consuming plenty of fluids, and
4)       taking out adequate time to rest.

What do swollen lymph nodes feel like?

Swollen lymph nodes are tender to the touch. They are soft and bumpy. 

How long do lymph nodes remain swollen in adults?

They can resolve after 10 – 14 days. 

Why are my lymph nodes swollen? 

The lymph nodes can become swollen as a result of the body’s reaction to infections caused by bacteria or viruses and, in rare cases, cancer, immune system disorders, or certain medications.