Swollen Lymph Nodes – Causes and Treatment
Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign that the immune system is active. They often occur during infections but can also have other underlying causes.
Wissenswertes über "swollen lymph nodes"
Swollen lymph nodes are a common sign that the immune system is active. They often occur during infections but can also have other underlying causes.
What Are Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped organs of the immune system distributed throughout the body – most commonly in the neck, armpits, and groin. They filter lymph fluid and help the body fight off pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. When the body is combating an infection or another condition, the lymph nodes can enlarge. This is medically referred to as lymphadenopathy.
Causes
There are many possible causes of swollen lymph nodes:
- Infections: The most common cause. These include the common cold, flu, tonsillitis, ear infections, dental infections, or infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever).
- Bacterial infections: For example, streptococcal infections or skin infections such as erysipelas.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to lymph node swelling.
- Medications: Some drugs can cause lymph node swelling as a side effect.
- Cancer: In rarer cases, swollen lymph nodes may indicate lymphoma, leukemia, or metastases from other types of cancer.
Symptoms
Swollen lymph nodes are usually felt as palpable, sometimes tender lumps under the skin. Associated symptoms may include:
- Pain or tenderness in the area of the lymph node
- Redness or warmth of the skin over the lymph node
- General feeling of illness, fever, or fatigue
- Night sweats and unintentional weight loss (particularly with more serious causes)
Diagnosis
A doctor will palpate the lymph nodes and ask about accompanying symptoms and medical history. Further diagnostic steps may include:
- Blood tests: To detect infections, inflammation markers, or abnormalities in the blood count.
- Ultrasound: To assess the size, shape, and structure of the lymph nodes.
- Biopsy: In unclear cases, a tissue sample may be taken and examined in the laboratory.
- Imaging: CT or MRI scans if deeper lymph nodes are involved.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the lymph node swelling:
- Infection-related swelling usually resolves on its own once the infection clears. Bacterial infections may be treated with antibiotics.
- Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- In cases of cancer, treatment depends on the underlying condition and may include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
When to See a Doctor
Not every swollen lymph node is cause for concern. However, the following warning signs should be evaluated by a doctor promptly:
- A lymph node swells to more than 1 cm and remains enlarged for more than 2 to 3 weeks
- The lymph node is hard, immovable, or painless
- Accompanying symptoms such as night sweats, significant weight loss, or persistent high fever
- Swelling without any apparent infection
References
- Ferrer R: Lymphadenopathy: Differential Diagnosis and Evaluation. American Family Physician, 1998;58(6):1313-1320.
- Swartz MH: Textbook of Physical Diagnosis – History and Examination. Elsevier, 7th edition, 2014.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Lymphadenopathy – Clinical Overview. Available at: https://www.who.int
Verwandte Produkte
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, probiotic lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
Best-selling products
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, probiotic lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®The latest entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryIntestinal Villus Images
Iodine Absorption Rate
Pancreolauryl Test
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Cologne list
Calorie content
Related search terms: swollen lymph nodes + swollen lymph glands + lymph node swelling + lymphadenopathy