Lymph Nodes Swollen

Throat | Endocrinology and Metabolism | Lymph Nodes Swollen (Symptom)


Description

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands throughout the body. They are part of the lymphatic system, which carries fluid (lymph fluid), nutrients, and waste material between the body tissues and the bloodstream. Lymph nodes are an important component of the body immune system and help fight infections.

Causes

Lymph nodes often swell in one location when a problem such as an injury, infection, or tumor develops in or near the lymph node. Which lymph nodes are swollen can help identify the problem.

The symptoms of swollen lymph nodes are highly variable. A person can be completely free of symptoms (asymptomatic) and only when there is a malfunction when medical observation. On the other hand, sometimes, swollen lymph nodes may be very tender, painful and disfiguring.

Other symptoms may be related to an underlying disease that accompanies the swollen lymph nodes. For example, symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss, or evidence of infection (toothache, sore throat) can provide valuable clues to determine the cause of swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Treatment for swollen glands focuses on treating the cause. For example, a bacterial infection may be treated with antibiotics, while a viral infection often goes away on its own. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

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