What are lymph nodes and lymph
Lymph nodes, or lymph glands, are small organs in the form of beans that are scattered throughout the body. In the body there are approximately 600 things, near 300 of them are in the head and neck area. It is an important part of the immune system.
Flows through special vessels in the human body. lymph – a colorless liquid that moves between cells. It delivers nutrients to them and washes away dead particles, decay products, viruses, and bacteria. And when the lymph reaches the nodes, they act as filters and destroy all the “garbage” with the help of white blood cells.
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Why do the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed?
Lymphadenitis, or inflammation of the lymph nodes, is almost always arises due to infection. Reaction to foreign organisms – bacteria, viruses or fungi – forces lymph nodes in the neck swell, increase in size and hurt.
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Viral infections
The most common cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes is ARVI. It is most often caused by rhinovirus, adenovirus and influenza virus.
But there are several other pathogens that can bring to lymphadenitis:
- Epstein-Barr virus,
- cytomegalovirus,
- herpes simplex virus,
- enterovirus,
- rubella,
- measles,
- piggy,
- roseola,
- parvovirus,
- chicken pox,
- AIDS virus.
Bacterial infections
Inflammation may arisewhen a person is faced with the following diseases:
- pneumonia,
- tuberculosis,
- streptococcal infection,
- staphylococcal infection,
- diphtheria,
- pasteurellosis,
- syphilis,
- brucellosis,
- mycoplasmosis,
- tularemia,
- plague.
Lymphadenitis can also be caused by gram-negative bacilli and enterobacteria.
Fungal infections
Some fungi can also bring to inflammation of the lymph nodes. Most often this happens when a person encounters the following infections: histoplasmosis, actinomycosis, nocardiosis, aspergillosis and sporotrichosis.
Which lymph nodes are considered inflamed?
Normally, lymph nodes are small and soft. But when they become more than a centimeter in width, you should be wary and check if there is inflammation. It makes itself felt by the following signs:
- pain when touched;
- redness or red streaks on the skin over the nodes;
- altered structure of the lymph nodes – the organs become harder or, conversely, softer than usual, and it seems that they have stuck together;
- feeling that the lymph nodes are filled with pus;
- liquid leaking onto the skin;
- temperature.
When should you see a doctor with swollen lymph nodes?
You should consult a therapist as soon as you notice symptoms of lymphadenitis in the neck. Yes, some lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying illness, such as a cold, goes away. But if inflammation appears, it may spread to other parts of the body in a few hours.
To make a diagnosis, a specialist examines patient and asks him about his symptoms. The doctor may also offer take a blood test or culture. May need take a piece of the troubling lymph node for microscopic examination or get checked for tuberculosis.
How does a doctor treat inflammation of the lymph nodes?
Depending on the test results and the cause of inflammation, the patient will appoint suitable treatment. The following medications may be needed:
- antimicrobial,
- antiviral,
- antifungal,
- antipyretics,
- anti-inflammatory,
- decongestants.
If pus has accumulated in the lymph node, drainage may be necessary – a procedure during which this fluid is removed.
How to relieve your condition right now
The most important thing is to follow all the doctor’s instructions. But there are a few more waysthat will help improve the condition of your home.
Take a painkiller
Will fit well facilities based on paracetamol and naproxen. Children, teenagers, and people with blood clotting problems should be careful with aspirin. And also him and ibuprofen should not be taken if you have chickenpox. Therefore, if you have even the slightest doubt, it is better to consult 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.
How to prevent inflammation of the lymph nodes
Measures prevention the same as for any infection:
- Get vaccinated. Talk to your doctor to find out if you have received all your vaccines and keep them up to date on your schedule. And don’t forget about seasonal vaccinations – against flu and Covid, for example.
- Wash your hands frequently with clean, running water and soap. Or use an alcohol-based antiseptic.
- Avoid touching your eyes and nose, and if you must, wash your hands first.
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Disinfect surfaces in your home or workplace.
- Get enough sleep, eat healthy and exercise.
- Do not reuse syringes or share them with other people.
This material was first published in March 2019. In April 2024, we updated the text.
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