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Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are part of your lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in your body’s immune defence. They act like filters, trapping bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances before they can spread to other parts of the body. Lymph nodes are scattered throughout your body, with clusters in areas like your neck, underarms, groin, and abdomen.
While lymph nodes usually go unnoticed, their enlargement can be a sign that your body is responding to an infection or another underlying health condition. When these nodes swell, it’s often a cause for concern, but understanding why they enlarge and when to seek medical attention can help you manage your health better.
What Causes Lymph Nodes to Swell?
Lymph nodes can become swollen for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause is an infection. When your body is fighting an infection, your immune system ramps up its response, causing nearby lymph nodes to enlarge. This swelling is often a sign that your immune system is doing its job. However, there are other causes of enlarged lymph nodes that may be more serious and need medical attention.
1. Infections
Bacterial infections: If you have an infection like strep throat or an ear infection, the lymph nodes near the affected area may swell. This is a natural response as the lymph nodes work to filter out the bacteria.
Viral infections: Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis, can also lead to swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, infections like HIV or hepatitis can cause lymph node enlargement as well.
Other infections: Less common infections, such as tuberculosis or cat scratch fever, can cause lymph node swelling. In these cases, swollen lymph nodes may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever or fatigue.
2. Inflammatory Conditions
Swollen lymph nodes can also result from autoimmune diseases, which cause your immune system to attack healthy tissues in your body. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can lead to lymph node enlargement. These conditions often cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the lymphatic system.
3. Cancer
While swollen lymph nodes are often caused by infection or inflammation, they can sometimes be a sign of cancer. Lymphomas, such as Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are cancers that start in the lymphatic system and often cause swollen lymph nodes. Other cancers, like breast, lung, or stomach cancer, can spread to the lymph nodes, causing them to enlarge.
4. Medications
Certain medications can also cause lymph node swelling. Medications used to treat seizures, or even some vaccines, can cause temporary enlargement of lymph nodes. In such cases, the swelling usually resolves once the medication is stopped or the immune response has settled down.
Symptoms of Enlarged Lymph Nodes
While enlarged lymph nodes themselves are usually painless, they may be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause. Symptoms that may accompany swollen lymph nodes include:
- Tenderness or pain in the swollen area
- Fever or chills
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or general feeling of being unwell
- Redness or warmth in the skin over the swollen lymph node
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing (if nodes are located in the neck)
When to See a Doctor
Most cases of swollen lymph nodes are harmless and resolve once the infection or cause is treated. However, there are times when swollen lymph nodes may signal a more serious issue. You should seek medical attention if:
- The swelling lasts for more than two weeks
- The swollen lymph nodes continue to grow in size
- You experience persistent fever or night sweats
- You have unexplained weight loss
- The swollen nodes are hard, fixed in place, or painful
- You have difficulty swallowing or breathing
These could be signs of a more serious condition, such as an infection that requires stronger treatment, an autoimmune disorder, or even cancer. Your doctor will conduct a thorough examination, possibly ordering blood tests, imaging tests, or a biopsy to determine the underlying cause of the swelling.
How Are Enlarged Lymph Nodes Diagnosed?
When you visit your doctor, they will ask you about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In many cases, the doctor can determine the cause of swollen lymph nodes through a simple evaluation. However, if more information is needed, additional tests may be recommended:
Blood tests: These can help identify infections or conditions like autoimmune disorders.
Imaging tests: X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans can provide detailed images of the swollen lymph nodes and any surrounding areas.
Biopsy: If the doctor suspects cancer, a biopsy may be performed to collect tissue from the swollen lymph node for further examination.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for enlarged lymph nodes depends on the underlying cause. If the swelling is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. For viral infections, the treatment is usually supportive, focusing on relieving symptoms. If an autoimmune condition is responsible, medications to manage inflammation may be used. In more serious cases, such as lymphoma or cancer, a more specialised treatment plan, including chemotherapy or radiation, may be required.
Conclusion
Enlarged lymph nodes are often a sign that your immune system is working to fight off an infection or inflammation. While most cases are harmless, it’s important to pay attention to other symptoms and seek medical advice if you notice prolonged swelling, pain, or other unusual signs.
If you're suffering from enlarged lymph nodes or other symptoms, consult with our best ENT specialist today to get the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.
