Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes indicate that your body is actively combating an infection or illness, and they typically return to their normal size once their function is fulfilled.

Lymph nodes, which are round, bean-shaped glands found throughout your body, can sometimes be felt as small bumps, particularly when they become swollen due to lymphadenopathy.

Part of the lymphatic system, along with organs like the spleen, tonsils, and adenoids, lymph nodes play a crucial role in defending your body against harmful pathogens.

Lymph nodes act as filters for lymph fluid, which carries essential nutrients, fats, minerals, proteins, and other substances. The cells within lymph nodes work to eliminate any harmful agents present in the lymph fluid, such as bacteria or viruses, thereby contributing to your overall health and well-being.

Swollen Lymph Nodes cause

Lymph nodes play a crucial role in the immune system, housing immune cells known as lymphocytes that actively combat bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. When the body is engaged in fighting off harmful germs, it produces an increased quantity of these immune cells, resulting in lymph node swelling.

Swollen lymph nodes can arise due to various reasons, as lymph nodes encounter a wide array of germs. Common causes of swollen lymph nodes often include easily treatable conditions such as:

• Viral infections, such as the common cold
• Bacterial infections, including ear infections, skin infections, or infected teeth
• Streptococcal throat infection (strep throat)
• Viral illnesses like measles or mononucleosis (mono)

In rarer instances, swollen lymph nodes may be indicative of more serious underlying illnesses, such as:

• Tuberculosis, an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs
• Lyme disease, transmitted through tick bites
• Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues
• HIV/AIDS, a sexually transmitted infection or acquired through intravenous drug use
• Certain types of cancer, including:
  • Lymphoma, a cancer originating from the lymphatic system
  • Leukemia, a cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow

Where can they be found?

The human body contains approximately 600 lymph nodes, with some of the most recognizable ones located in the neck, known as cervical lymph nodes. However, clusters of lymph nodes can also be found in areas such as the armpits and the groin, where the thigh meets the torso. While some lymph nodes are easily palpable beneath the skin, others are situated deeper within the body.

Swollen Lymph node symptoms

Common indicators of swollen lymph nodes include:

• Enlarged lymph nodes, often described as being the size of a kidney bean or larger
• Tenderness or pain in the affected lymph nodes

Since swollen lymph nodes are typically associated with an underlying illness, additional symptoms may manifest depending on the specific condition:

• Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, such as a runny nose, sore throat, or fever
• Enlargement of multiple groups of lymph nodes in various parts of the body, resulting from an infection or an autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis
• The presence of hard, immobile lymph nodes that do not increase in size rapidly, which could be indicative of certain types of cancer

Diagnosing Swollen Lymph Nodes

Your doctor will initiate the diagnostic process by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. By assessing the location of the swollen glands in your body, they may gain insights into the underlying cause.

Additionally, your doctor may recommend one or more diagnostic tests to further investigate the situation:

• Blood tests
• X-rays
• Ultrasound imaging, which utilizes high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal structures
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, employing a powerful magnet and radio waves to generate detailed images of organs and tissues
• Biopsy, involving the removal of lymph node tissue for microscopic examination
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, which assesses chemical activity in different body regions and can aid in detecting various conditions including certain cancers, heart disease, and brain disorders (although less commonly used)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, a procedure that captures X-rays from various angles and compiles them to create comprehensive images

When to See a doctor

In many instances, swollen lymph nodes typically diminish in size once the underlying illness or infection subsides. However, certain signs and symptoms warrant medical attention:

• Sudden onset of lymph node swelling
• Marked enlargement of lymph nodes, significantly larger than usual
• Palpation of hard, immobile lymph nodes
• Persistent lymph node swelling lasting more than 5 days in children or 2-4 weeks in adults
• Presence of red or purple discoloration around the affected lymph nodes, accompanied by warmth or pus discharge
• Swelling observed in the arm or groin region
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fever that persists despite treatment
• Night sweats

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor promptly for further evaluation and appropriate management.

Treatment for Swollen Lymph Nodes

If a more serious underlying cause is identified, treatment may involve:

1. Antibiotics: Prescribed to combat bacterial infections.
2. Anti-inflammatory medications: Used to manage conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Surgical intervention, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy: Employed in the treatment of certain types of cancer.

Home Remedies for Swollen Lymph Nodes

If your swollen lymph nodes are not attributed to a serious condition, they typically resolve on their own over time. Meanwhile, you can try the following remedies to alleviate discomfort:

1. Warm compress: Applying a warm washcloth to the affected area can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
2. Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest, as adequate rest can expedite recovery from mild illnesses.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen can provide relief. However, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor before administering aspirin to children or teenagers.

FAQs

Is it normal for lymph nodes to swell?

Yes, swelling in your lymph nodes is a normal sign that your body is battling an infection, like a cold or sore throat. It’s their way of stepping up the fight!

What do swollen lymph nodes feel like?

Usually, swollen lymph nodes feel like small, soft bumps just beneath the skin. They might be a little tender, but most of the time they’re not painful.

Do swollen lymph nodes always mean COVID-19?

Not necessarily! Swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of many infections, not just COVID-19. If you’re concerned about exposure, though, getting a test is a good idea.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine cause swollen lymph nodes?

Yes, sometimes. Because the vaccine helps your body build defenses against COVID-19, it’s possible for the lymph nodes near the injection site (usually under your arm) to temporarily swell as part of that process. This is usually nothing to worry about and goes away on its own within a few weeks.

Note:

• Swollen lymph nodes typically indicate that your body is fighting off an infection or illness. The lymphatic system, comprising about 600 lymph nodes, is integral to your immune system.
• In most cases, lymph node swelling resolves spontaneously. However, if significant swelling persists or worsens, it’s advisable to consult your doctor.

Sources

1. Mayo Clinic
2. American Cancer Society
3. Cleveland Clinic
4. Harvard Health Publishing
5. WebMD
6. HealthyChildren.org
7. National Cancer Institute
8. LiveScience.com
9. New York Presbyterian