![]() ![]() Your lymphatic system is made up of a broad network of vessels, tissues, and organs that are important to your immune system. Lymph nodes play a key role as filters in your lymphatic system. Some lie just below the surface of your skin, while others reside deeper within your body. ![]() It is estimated that your body houses several hundred lymph nodes. But in children, it may be more easily detected. Lymph nodes can be found in clusters throughout the body and are an important part of your immune system.Ī normal lymph node is 1 cm in size or less and is not normally seen or felt in adults. Your lymph nodes hold white blood cells (WBCs) that help rid your body of harmful germs that cause illness. Lymph nodes are small, pea-sized glands that help the body recognize and fight infection. Keep reading to find out what causes swollen lymph nodes, when to see your healthcare provider, and how they’re treated. Indeed, it is often a sign that your immune system is working hard to fend off an illness. But before you worry, bear in mind that this swelling can be a normal response. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.You may be concerned if you have swollen lymph nodes. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn't treated, an abscess may form. Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin (Dilantin) and preventive medications for malaria. Other cancers that have spread (metastasized) to lymph nodes.Leukemia - cancer of your body's blood-forming tissue, including your bone marrow and lymphatic system.Lymphoma - cancer that originates in your lymphatic system.Rheumatoid arthritis - a chronic inflammatory disease targeting the tissue that lines your joints (synovium).Lupus - a chronic inflammatory disease that targets your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart and lungs.Cat scratch fever - a bacterial infection from a cat scratch or bite.Toxoplasmosis - a parasitic infection resulting from contact with the feces of an infected cat or eating undercooked meat.Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as syphilis.Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) - the virus that causes AIDS.Skin or wound infections, such as cellulitis.Other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes include: Common infections The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly a viral infection, such as the common cold. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. Lymph nodes are small, round or bean-shaped clusters of cells. Seek immediate medical care if you're having difficulty swallowing or breathing. Are accompanied by persistent fever, night sweats or unexplained weight loss.Feel hard or rubbery, or don't move when you push on them.Continue to enlarge or have been present for two to four weeks.See your doctor if you're concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes: Some swollen lymph nodes return to normal when the underlying condition, such as a minor infection, gets better. Hard, fixed, rapidly growing nodes, indicating a possible cancer or lymphoma.When this occurs, it may indicate an infection, such as HIV or mononucleosis, or an immune system disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis General swelling of lymph nodes throughout your body.Runny nose, sore throat, fever and other indications of an upper respiratory infection.Swelling that may be the size of a pea or kidney bean, or even larger in the lymph nodesĭepending on the cause of your swollen lymph nodes, other signs and symptoms you might have include:.When your lymph nodes first swell, you might notice: Swollen lymph nodes are a sign that something is wrong somewhere in your body. Lymph nodes that frequently swell are in this area, as well as in your armpits and groin area. Many lymph nodes are located in your head and neck region. Your lymphatic system is a network of organs, vessels and lymph nodes situated throughout your body. ![]()
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