Lymph nodes are vital part of the body, present everywhere. Its main function is to identify and destroy germs and other infection causing microorganisms. Lymph nodes can be easily identified in areas of neck, chin and armpits of the body. In medical terms, swollen lymph nodes are called as lymphadenopathy.
Lymph nodes become enlarged (swollen) when it is exposed to bacterial or viral infection. Common cold, flu and other infections can cause swollen lymph nodes. The lymph nodes develop inflammation and this condition is called lymphadenitis. Treatment for swollen lymph nodes depends on the causes.
Symptoms :
Each lymphatic system includes various blood vessels, organs and multiple lymph nodes. Lymph nodes in large number are found on the head and neck region. Swollen lymph nodes can be easily identified on the armpits, neck and groin area. It indicates that something is wrong with your body. Some of the signs related to swollen lymph nodes are tender nodes, and inflammation of lymph nodes. The size of lymph node can be similar to that of a kidney bean or sometimes even larger. In addition, the affected person can have runny nose, fever, sore throat and upper respiratory tract infection. There will be difficulty in breathing and eating anything due to sore throat.
The presence of swollen lymph nodes indicates infection or immune disorder like lupus. In case the lymph nodes of the limb get swollen you may have difficulty in walking. The lymph nodes that are fixed and hard to feel can be of tumor type. Some of the areas like groin, armpit, neck, ears and the back of the head gets swollen and can be felt with fingers.
Read more on Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck and Other Locations
Swollen Lymph Nodes Causes :
Infection from bacteria or virus is the major cause for swollen lymph nodes. It can be caused due to ear infection, upper respiratory tract infection, common cold, flu, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, mouth sores and mononucleosis. In addition infections like tonsillitis, tuberculosis, skin infection and sexually transmitted diseases can also cause swollen lymph nodes. For some people autoimmune disorders like HIV, arthritis and lupus can cause this problem. Leukemia and Hodgkin’s disease can also cause swelling of lymph nodes. Prolonged use of epilepsy medicines and immunization for typhoid can also cause swollen lymph nodes.