![]() ![]() Finally, cancer and HIV infection are rare causes. Certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are also associated with enlarged nodes. ![]() Less common causes of enlarged lymph nodes include infections such as cat scratch disease, tuberculosis and sexually transmitted diseases. This may be what your doctor was referring to. If untreated, infected lymph nodes may progress to an abscess (pus collection) or spread bacteria to the overlying skin or into the bloodstream. Infected nodes (called "lymphadenitis") are fairly common and may be treated with an antibiotic, warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The node may become swollen and tender to the touch, and the overlying skin may be red and warm. The node will usually shrink back to normal within a few weeks after the infection has passed.Ī lymph node itself can get infected when overwhelmed by the infection it is trying to fight. An enlarged lymph node in the area of an infection (such as a swollen neck node during an ear infection) may double in size, going from about a quarter or half of an inch to nearly an inch wide. Some nodes can become enlarged when they work overtime during common infections such as the common cold, strep throat, infected skin wounds or canker sores caused by a virus, as you may have had. Lymph nodes contain white blood cells and filter the germs in the body. Even though they are about the size of a pea, lymph nodes are usually not noticeable unless they are close to the skin's surface (such as in the neck, armpit or groin) or are much larger than usual. ![]() There are over 500 lymph nodes (also called lymph glands) in the body, which are connected in a network called the lymphatic system. Having said that, let's talk about the reasons lymph nodes get enlarged and when you may need to be concerned. Let me first reassure you that the vast majority of swollen lymph nodes soon return to normal size on their own without the need for an antibiotic and do not indicate a serious or dangerous medical condition. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |