ENLARGED LYMPH NODES

Overview and Facts

Enlarged lymph nodes will usually appear in some areas of your body, like in your armpits, groin, neck and under your chin. When exposed to viruses and bacteria , enlargement of the lymph nodes may occur.

Lymphadenitis results when enlarged lymph nodes are caused by an infection. Some are caused by cancer, but this case is rare.

Moreover, lymph nodes or lymph glands can have great benefits for your body as they can fight against infections. Lymph nodes work as filters, trapping bacteria, viruses and other infection agents before they penetrate many areas of the human body.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

You can locate lymph nodes around the neck and head region. The lymphatic system is commonly located throughout the body. You can locate most lymph nodes around the neck and head region. This is where you can also notice swelling in the groin part and armpits.

The lymphatic system is defined as a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated in all areas of the body.

If you notice enlarged lymph nodes in some areas of your body, seek a doctor’s advice immediately, as it maybe a sign of underlying health issues.

Symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes include:

  • Pain with tenderness of affected lymph nodes
  • Swelling that is about the size of a pea or kidney bean, or larger than lymph nodes

Signs and symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes may depend on their causes. These include:

  • Enlarged lymph nodes in all areas of the body may indicate that there is an infection like HIV or mononucleosis, or an immune disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Fever
  • Fixed, hard,rapidly growing nodes that indicates a possible tumor
  • Indications of an infection of the upper respiratory system, such as fever, sore throat and runny nose
  • Sweating at night

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor may do the following tests to determine the cause of your enlarged lymph nodes. These tests include:

  • A physical exam
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging studies
  • Lymph node biopsy
  • Your medical history

TREATMENT

Swollen lymph nodes caused by a virus may return to normal after the viral infection resolves.

Enlarged lymph nodes may be treated if the viral infection resolves. However, antibiotics can’t treat viral infections.

Treatment for enlarged lymph nodes depends on the cause:

  • Cancer
  • Immune disorder
  • Infection

 

 

 

 

 

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