Lymph Nodes Swollen - How Dangerous Is It?

Introduction and definition

Swollen lymph nodes (Lymphadenopathy) are in the vast majority of cases not caused by a serious illness, but a concomitant symptom of an infection, such as a cold. Even with a banal respiratory infection (sniff etc) notice swollen lymph nodes, especially in the Neck area are located. Those affected often notice that the Lymph nodes is enlarged and hurts.
Except the Lymph nodes on the neck- and Lymph nodes in the groin areathat can be felt even in healthy people, most lymph nodes can only be felt when they are enlarged.

However, it should be known that swollen lymph nodes can occur in many different diseases viral and bacterial infections be, but also in the context of Tumor diseases swelling is possible. There are tumors primarily arising from lymph nodes (Lymphoma), as well as malignancies (malignant tumors) that metastasize along the lymphatic system (form daughter tumors) and form tumor settlements in the lymph nodes.

More information can be found here: Lymphatic Cancer - Everything You Need to Know

Also read our page Chronic swelling of the lymph nodes.

Anatomy and function

The lymph node is networked with others by means of the lymph channels.

Lymph nodes are in entire body and are for the Immune defense responsible. Most of the lymph nodes are between two and ten millimeters tall and not palpable. The lymph nodes on neck and in the strip but can up to two inches be big and are the same with healthy people palpable. The lymph nodes are interconnected by the Lymphatics networked. In addition to defense against infection, the lymphatic system is also for the Return of "squeezed out" liquid afrom the blood system to the surrounding tissue responsible.

There are particularly many lymph nodes on neck, along the cervical vessels (directly below the lower jaw), these are for the Lymph drainage of the entire head area responsible; they are said to "drain" the head region. But they also lie in front of and behind the ear, at the Back of the head and on or under the chin.
There are also many lymph nodes in the Armpit, this drain the lymph fluid from the Poor and the Chest area; there are also many lymph nodes in the Afford, these get lymph flow out both legs.
in the Abdominal area the lymph nodes are more likely deep in the body, very close to the respective organs.

In the Blood and lymph vessels of the body circulate the Immune cells (B-lymphocytes and T-lymphocytes, the special White blood cells are and fight Bacteria and viruses. In the lymph nodes present different rows of cells the Pathogensthat are in the body and activate thereby in this lymph node the B and T lymphocytes for defense against infection.
When a Activated lymph nodes is, he produces more cells and swells at (reactive lymphadenitis). The T lymphocytes can direct Viruses, bacteria and also tumor cells fight and destroy, the B lymphocytes produce antibodies and thereby contribute to defense against infection.

Figure lymph node swelling

Illustration of swollen lymph nodes

Swollen lymph nodes
Lymphadenopathy

  1. Lymph nodes on the ear
  2. Almonds - Tonsils
  3. Cervical lymph nodes
  4. Axillary lymph nodes
  5. Spleen - Sink
  6. Abdominal lymph nodes
  7. Inguinal lymph nodes
  8. Normal lymph node
  9. Inflamed lymph node
    A - bacterial infections
    Tonsillitis -
    Tonsillar angina
    Inflammation of the teeth
    diphtheria
    (Upper respiratory tract infection)
    Syphilis - infectious disease
    Chlamydia
    (affect mucous membranes in
    Eyes-.genital-. and
    Airway area)
    tuberculosis
    (Infectious disease on
    most commonly affects the lungs)
    Lyme disease
    (most common by ticks
    transmitted disease)
    B - viral infections
    Teething problems
    (Rubella. Measles. Chickenpox)
    Glandular Pfeiffer fever
    (Kiss sickness)
    HIV
    (Human immunodeficiency virus)
    responsible for AIDS
    Cytomegaly (herpes)
    C - cancers
    Leukemia (blood cancer) -
    ALLES. AML. CLL and CML
    Malignant (malignant) lymphomas
    (Lymph gland cancer)
    Lymph node metastases
    D - Other causes
    Taxoplasmosis-arises from the
    Parasites Toxoplasma gondii,
    is transmitted through cats.
    Lymphedema (fluid retention
    in the intercellular space)
    Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory
    Joint disease)

You can find an overview of all Dr-Gumpert images at: medical illustrations

causes

Swollen lymph nodes can appear anywhere in the body, although diagnosis, especially deep ones, is only possible using imaging.

The causes of sudden swelling of the lymph nodes are many. In principle, any infection in any part of the body can lead to swelling. These include infections that are accompanied by strong symptoms (such as fever, fatigue, etc.), as well as those that hardly cause symptoms. Malignant diseases such as lymphatic cancer lead to swollen lymph nodes much less often. Below are some common causes of lymph node swelling based on the location of the lymph nodes.

in the Neck area Lymph node swellings are particularly common. Many people have cervical lymph nodes that are always palpable due to their size. In the case of infections, painful swollen lymph nodes are often added.
This is often the case with:

  • a common cold
  • for tooth inflammation
  • for all respiratory infections
  • for inflammation with sore throat / earache or runny nose
  • with tonsillitis (angina tonsillaris), which is often associated with swallowing difficulties and sometimes with shortness of breath. This is particularly common in children.

This also occurs in the context of a herpes virus infection, which is associated with a cold sore, for example; In addition, Pfeiffer's glandular fever (infectious mononucleosis) triggered by the EBV (Epstein-Barr virus), which often occurs in children or adolescents and is accompanied by fever, swallowing disorders, swollen tonsils and possibly abdominal pain due to liver and spleen swelling.

In the Armpit region Palpable lymph nodes can indicate an infection from the hand to the shoulder or in the chest area. However, possible metastases of breast cancer (breast cancer) should be clarified.

In the Afford Palpable lymph nodes can also be found in healthy people; painful swellings are often caused by infections in the genital area.
These are for example:

  • Inflammation of the external female genital organs (vulvitis)
  • Inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis)
  • Inflammation of the glans penis (balanitis)
  • Inflammation of the epididymis (epididymitis), often caused by fungi, viruses or bacteria.

Often these conditions are accompanied by pain, itching, discharge, and redness. Typical examples are chlamydial infections, syphilis due to Treponema pallidum, gonorrhea / gonorrhea due to Neisseria gonorrhea or an infection with Candida fungi.

Inflammation from the foot to the groin also leads to swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin region.
In the differential diagnosis, a femoral hernia or an inguinal hernia (inguinal hernia) can also present as swelling in the groin and should be separated from swollen lymph nodes.

Some diseases can different lymph node stations concern, there are the following examples:

  • Accompanying an infected wound or a sting e.g. insects can cause swelling of nearby lymph nodes.
  • Many children's diseases (rubella, measles, chickenpox) are accompanied by swelling of the lymph nodes. These are often accompanied by skin rashes (exanthema).
  • Toxoplasmosis, which is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, is mainly transmitted via cats. This leads to fever, general symptoms and swelling of the lymph nodes. The disease is particularly dangerous for the unborn child during pregnancy.
  • Lymphangitis, known colloquially as blood poisoning, which actually represents an inflammation of the lymphatic system, can also be expected to involve swelling of the lymph nodes.
  • An HIV infection (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can also affect the lymph nodes, especially if the sick patient develops AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). In the AIDS stage, patients are very susceptible to infection due to the disruption of the T lymphocytes. However, flu-like symptoms and lymph node swelling can manifest themselves shortly after the HIV infection.

Read more on this topic: Lymph Node Swelling - What Evidence Is There It Is HIV?

Whether or not swollen lymph nodes are dangerous depends on the cause. Usually it is just a reaction to a harmless infection. However, in rare cases it can be a serious illness. If the swollen lymph nodes persist for a long time and for no apparent reason, a doctor should definitely be consulted.

Cold as a cause of swollen lymph nodes

One of the most common causes for swollen lymph nodes is one cold. With a cold, unspecific inflammatory processes occur in several places. The throat, upper respiratory tract and sinuses are often inflamed. All these processes in the common cold provoke swollen lymph nodes. They occur mainly on the side of the upper neck.
Swollen lymph nodes in a cold are usually completely harmless. Usually they appear with a cold simultaneously on both sides of the neck. In contrast to other diseases, the swelling occurs relatively quickly. Palpable nodules under the skin can appear within a few hours. These lymph nodes are roughly felt and can be moved under the skin. In addition, the knots are painful even with light pressure. However, swollen lymph nodes do not always have to occur with a cold.
An important differential diagnosis of the common cold with swollen lymph nodes is an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. This manifests itself similarly at the beginning, but usually shows a more severe course and should be treated by a doctor.

Inflamed tooth as the cause of the lymph node swelling

Lymph nodes can have a Swelling on an inflamed tooth react. This is a not uncommon symptom of inflammation in the dental apparatus. The swollen lymph nodes can then be found on jaw, under the chin and on neck.
Not just an infected tooth, but one too Inflammation of the gums can cause swollen lymph nodes. These can be tender. After the symptoms have been treated, the affected lymph nodes usually swell again.

Swollen lymph nodes after vaccination

A not infrequently observed side effect after vaccination is swollen lymph nodes. They are an expression of the immune response that takes place to the vaccination and usually do not require treatment. Swollen lymph nodes after vaccination occur in close connection with the injection and are usually self-limiting. They can persist for a few days and be mildly painful in some cases.
Swollen lymph nodes are particularly common after vaccination with a live vaccine. These include e.g. Yellow fever, measles, mumps, or rubella. If in doubt, those affected should present themselves to the family doctor.

To find out more about this topic, read our next article at: Lymph node swelling after vaccination

Lymph node cancer as a cause of swollen lymph nodes

Tumor diseases that arise primarily in the lymph nodes and can be associated with massive lymph node swellings, as well as often associated with the so-called "B symptoms", are:

  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Hodgkin's disease

Tumor diseases that originate, among other things, from lymphatic cells (or myeloid cells of the bone marrow), wash out into the lymph nodes and show different symptoms, are:

  • Acute leukemia (acute lymphoblastic leukemia [ALL], acute myeloid leukemia [AML])
  • Chronic leukemia (chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL], chronic myeloid leukemia [CML])
  • Cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (mycosis fungoides)

There are also systemic diseases that can also involve lymph node involvement. These are the

  • Sarcoid with lymphadenopathy on both sides of the airways (bronchi)
  • Tuberculosis, in principle any lymph node possible
  • Lupus erythematosus

In addition, almost all malignant tumors can metastasize to the lymph nodes. In the process, enlarged lymph nodes often develop painlessly.

Read more on the topic: Lymph node cancer and lymph gland cancer - everything you need to know

Can swollen lymph nodes be a sign of HIV?

Among other symptoms are found in HIV too often swollen lymph nodes. They are among the early symptoms of HIV and can appear all over the body. Especially at additional symptoms how Exhaustion, Night sweats, unwanted weight loss, fever and feeling very ill, swollen lymph nodes can be an indication of HIV. But other diseases can also lead to these symptoms. For a diagnosis to be made, it is therefore always necessary to consult a doctor.

Symptoms

Depending on the cause, the patient's symptoms differ enormously.
A suddenly noticed swelling a lymph node that appears during palpation hurts and possibly with one Redness goes along speaks very much for one infection. In addition, the lymph nodes are often involved here symmetrical, both sides left and right, enlarged. For example, a cervical lymph node can swell and hurt during the immune defense against a cold, which is explained by its activation. As part of a infection can of course also fever and other general symptoms occur.

When a slowly increasing swelling noticed that as well painless this may be an indication of a malignant disease (a tumor disease). One often finds one here one-sided localized finding. If you have cancer that originates in the lymph nodes (Lymphoma) patients often notice so-called B symptoms, from fever, Night sweats and strong Weight loss consist.
At a Lymph node metastasis symptoms can vary greatly due to cancer in the adjacent tissues and organs. Then they usually predominate Symptoms of the original tumor.

More information can be found here: Symptoms of lymph gland cancer

Lymph node swelling and pain

A painful swelling of the lymph nodes can also be described as lymphadenitis - as inflammation of the lymph node. This is usually a secondary reaction from a neighboring inflammation to another Tissue. Since the lymph node is a place of Immune defense represents, it can happen that the Pathogen be dragged there. When a lymph node is inflamed, the body reacts like any other inflamed tissue: it imparts pain. The pain can vary in severity, although the individual sensitivity to pain should be taken into account. Differences can be in the Quality of pain, as well as in the Circumstances among which they occur can be found. For example, if there is lymphadenitis of a cervical lymph node because of a Respiratory infection is present, it can be that pain is only triggered when pressure is applied to this. If the lymphadenitis is triggered by pathogens that settle in the lymph nodes from the outset, the affected lymph nodes can develop generalized pain.

Itchy lymph nodes

In some cases go swollen lymph nodes with an itch hand in hand. This usually doesn't necessarily mean anything, as itching is a non-specific symptom. As part of inflammatory processes, swollen lymph nodes can also itch.
On the other hand, if it happens next to the swollen lymph nodes generalized itching all over the body, this can be a Note to be on a malignant disease. The so-called Hodgkin's lymphoma causes itching in some cases for a previously unexplained cause. There is swelling of the lymph nodes all over the body and itching. This is a serious disease that requires precise treatment.

Swelling of the lymph nodes and fever

If there is significant swelling of the lymph nodes and a fever, the doctor always has to contact you Epstein-Barr Virus think. This causes Pfeiffer's glandular fever. It expresses itself with high fever, Headache and body aches and causes swollen lymph nodes, especially in the neck.
Treatment is purely symptomatic and can take weeks. A swelling of the lymph nodes and a fever may also occur Expression of malignant diseasesaffecting the blood. These include Lymphoma and Leukemias.
A HIV infection also expresses himself i.a. with swelling of the lymph nodes and fever. Often, however, there is a banal factor behind a lymph node swelling and fever gripal infect. If the symptoms persist, you should still see a doctor.

Localization of swollen lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are found in many parts of our body. So swollen lymph nodes can appear in different parts of the body.

Swollen lymph nodes in the mouth

in the mouth even it can do not lead to swollen lymph nodes.
However, there are many causes in the mouth that can cause swollen lymph nodes in their typical locations. So can Inflammation of the gums to Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck or lead in the jaw area. Infections of the throat or the lining of the cheek can also lead to palpable lymph nodes. Cancer of the floor of the mouth or other tumors in the mouth cause lymph node swelling in a similar way.

Swollen lymph nodes on the ear

There are lymph nodes on the ear that are responsible for different areas of the head.

The lymph nodes on the ear are all included Lymph nodes of the head area, can, however, be distinguished from one another locally. The lymph nodes behind the ear (Nodi lymphatici retroauriculares) received Lymphatic vessels of the Side of the head and from the auricle. The draining lymphatic pathways lead into the deep cervical lymph nodes (Nodi lymphatici cervicales profundi). In the area in front of the ear is the Parotid gland, the Parotid gland, localized. At least the superficial lymph nodes (Nodi lymphatici parotidei superficiales) lie at the level of the ear and drain (receive the lymph) parts of the nose, eyelids and anterior parts of the face, as well as parts of the middle ear. The lymph also flows from these lymph nodes into the deep cervical lymph nodes (Nodi lymphatici cervicales profundi). From the supply area it can be concluded which areas an inflammation can cause an enlargement of the ear lymph nodes. It can be, for example, with an otitis media or with Scratches be the case in the face. With a cold, all of the lymph nodes in the head and neck area are often enlarged.

Swollen lymph nodes on the jaw

The Lymph nodes on the jaw are for that Drainage area from tongue, Zpork and cheeks responsible.
Therefore, swollen lymph nodes on the jaw occur in diseases in these regions and structures. They can be found along the lower jaw, especially in the angle of the jaw. Permanently swollen lymph nodes on the jaw are suspect for tumor diseases of the oral cavity. Oral floor cancer or carcinomas of the oral mucosa are rare, but should be ruled out if the findings are suspicious. In addition, tonsillitis in particular often causes bilateral swollen lymph nodes in the jaw.

Swollen lymph nodes on the neck

Swollen lymph nodes on the neck are an expression various diseases. The neck is a relatively common site for swollen lymph nodes. The swellings are felt on the neck, especially on the left and right sides in the area of ​​the lateral neck muscle (sternocleidomastoid muscle). In many cases there are swollen lymph nodes on the neck Expression of infection or inflammation in the area of ​​the head, neck and throat. These include e.g. a common cold or tonsillitis and sore throat. Inflamed boils or sebum glands around the face can also cause this. Tooth infections are also possible.
Certain viral diseases are also often associated with swollen lymph nodes on the neck. Here are particular measles, mumps or the Epstein-Barr Virus to call. In these cases, lymph nodes are often swollen elsewhere as well.
In addition to infections, malignant tumor diseases can also be responsible for swollen lymph nodes on the neck. All tumors in the head and neck area, such as ENT tumors or tumors of the throat and larynx should be mentioned in this context. Lymph node swellings in the neck can in principle also be caused by lymphoma or leukemia.

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Of the neck is a typical localization for some diseases swollen lymph nodes. The knots are straight on the side next to the spine in the neck to feel. Often there are also swollen lymph nodes on the back of the head.
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck occur when local infections in the head area available. Inflammations in the oral cavity, the parotid gland or sore throat are conceivable. Inflammation of the teeth or gums can also cause reactions to the lymph nodes in the neck. In rare cases, swollen lymph nodes in the neck are an expression of rubella or measles.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit

In the Armpit there is a network of 20 to 30 lymph nodes, the superficial lymph nodes (Nodi lymphatici axillary superficiales) and the deep lying lymph nodes (Nodi lymphatici axillary profundi). It comes to swelling one or more of the lymph nodes, this can have different causes. There in the armpit the Lymphatics of the poor (upper extremities) and the chest converge, the exact localization of the disease cannot be determined due to a swelling. A painful one Enlargement of the lymph nodes indicates a inflammation in the supply area. This can be an infected one, for example injury at the hand, but also one Inflammation of the chest (mastitis) act.The exact cause of the Tenderness should be clarified by a doctor. Can enlarged, painless If lymph nodes are palpated, this should definitely be clarified by a doctor. There is a possibility of one Breast cancer - one Breast cancer. Place the lymph nodes to be palpated Metastases of the tumor and indicate a good or poor prognosis depending on the location. In principle, it can be said that the higher the lymph node metastasis, the lower the survival rate. Orientation is based on that small pectoral muscle (Pectoralis minor muscle). By dividing into standardized levels, you can Therapy guidelines can be applied.

Read more information on this topic at: Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit

Swollen lymph nodes on the chest

At the chest themselves, are swollen lymph nodes not to be foundbecause there are usually no lymph nodes here.
The lymph resulting from the chest drains, has the first lymph node stations in the Armpit region under the arm. These lymph nodes on the breast are especially important in women if there is a suspicion of a malignant disease in the breast.
In breast cancer, the question of swollen, i.e. affected, lymph nodes in the armpit is crucial for further therapy and prognosis. The Palpation of this lymph node region should therefore also apply to everyone Examination on the chest belong to women. Nevertheless, you can see nodular changes on the chest when palpating. These are then not swollen lymph nodes, but changes in the mammary gland itself. It is important to know that in by no means all cases there must be cancer. Often times these are benign changes. Nevertheless, every lump on the breast must be clarified by a doctor.

Swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen

Swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen you can Do not touch, but only with imaging measures, such as Discover computed tomography. You are always extremely suspicious and can speak for a malignant tumor disease. There are several stations for swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen.
Depending on the affected area, tumors of the stomach and intestines, kidneys, liver or the genital organs are conceivable.
Lymphomas can also cause swollen lymph nodes in the abdomen. Therefore, the exact cause should always be investigated in order to initiate appropriate therapy. In some cases the swelling is too unspecific or inflammation-related.

Swollen lymph nodes in the groin

The lymph nodes the bar get the lymph from the Legs and feet, as well as the Organs in the pelvis lie. These include the Sexual organs both sexes and the urinary bladder. Also the lymph from the skin the lower extremity is channeled into the lymph nodes in the groin.

Generally interpret swollen lymph nodes on a changed defense situation and a Immune response like with one inflammation for example. Especially in young patients, swollen lymph nodes indicate inflammation.

Is the Lymph nodes from the inflammation enlarged, this is softly palpable, however, the pressure on the lymph nodes is released Pain out. The inflammation can be from either Lymph nodes themselves going out or in Catchment area of ​​the lymph of the lymph node lie (Leg, foot, pelvis).

In the Groin There are numerous possible inflammatory causes: cystitis, sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia for example, inflamed skin lesions on the legs or feet and many more. But the infection can too spread throughout the body be (HIV, syphilis, tuberculosis, arthritis) and the lymph node in the groin may be one of many that is swollen.

The Assigning a cause for a swollen lymph node is best done under Consideration of other symptoms.

However, a swollen lymph node can also be an indication of one Tumor disease which is especially the case in older patients. In contrast to the inflamed lymph nodes, these are not tender on pressure, hard and towards the other structures not movable.

In connection with tumor diseases, swollen lymph nodes occur in the groin Tumors of the sexual organs (Cervical cancer, testicular cancer), bladder or colon in question. As the lymph transports tumor cells from the affected area to the lymph nodes in the groin, it can happen Metastases in the lymph nodes of the groin or be noticed even after the actual tumor disease has been cured.

Here, too, applies that the tumor disease not only on the organs of the drainage basin must be limited. Leukemia also causes swelling of the lymph nodes or a tumor disease of the lymph nodes themselves.

A tumor disease would other symptoms, how Night sweats and or Weight loss drag with you.

In summary, it must be said that lymph nodes swollen for more than two weeks in the groin region of one Doctor should be examinedto determine the cause and treat it.

Lymph nodes swollen on one side

Lymph node swelling can be both both sides as well as one-sided occur. In the case of unilateral swelling, this can indicate a unilateral infection or inflammation of the tissue that is supplied by the corresponding lymph node. To confirm the suspicion of an inflammatory disease, blood tests are done, in which the inflammation parameters and antibody against any Pathogens to be controlled. Will not Focus of inflammation found and if there is swelling of the lymph node even after several days, which may also get bigger, should be immediately biopsy (surgical removal of a tissue sample). A malignant tumor, such as a lymphoma, can be responsible for the enlargement of the lymph node. If a metastasis has developed in the lymph node, then in the supply area after Primary tumor to be sought. In principle, however, should not immediately from one malignant disease should be assumed as soon as a lymph node swelling is detected. In the case of new swellings that enlarge particularly quickly or last for a long time, a doctor to be visited.

How can you palpate lymph nodes?

Generally one can only superficial lymph nodes Keys. Deep lymph nodes e.g. in the stomach cannot be discovered in this way. You can palpate lymph nodes by using light pressure with your fingertips the skin and underlying fatty tissue scans.
Are easy to feel swollen lymph nodes at the neck, under the Armpit and in the strip. You judge them consistency, the Movabilityt in the skin and any existing Tenderness.
Lymph nodes are suspicious if they are enlarged and hardened. A tender, bulging, elastic lymph node suggests infection and inflammation. Painless, hard lymph nodes that cannot be moved against the skin are more likely to be suspicious of serious illnesses and require careful examination.

diagnosis

Palpation is the first and most important diagnosis for the superficial lymph nodes.
First, the doctor estimates the size, then tests for pain and mobility, a distinction is made between movable and non-movable lymph nodes. This means whether the lymph node can be easily shifted and moved by pressure or whether it remains in place as if it were firmly baked. The former is normal and therefore does not indicate a disease, the latter can be a sign of a tumor and a possible malignancy. In addition, the tactile findings are described (the consistency e.g. as hard or soft, the surface as smooth or bumpy, among other things). The inflammation parameters in a blood test, as well as the patient's medical history and other symptoms, also provide evidence of reactive swelling (caused by infection). Furthermore, the ultrasound examination is suitable for examining the superficial and somewhat deeper lymph nodes.

Very few lymph nodes can be felt, however, so that the deeper lymph node swellings are often only noticed late and through other symptoms. The deeper the lymph nodes are in the body, the better the resolution of the examination procedure has to be in order to represent it, so that one can resort to computer and magnetic resonance imaging.

To determine the cause of the lymphadenopathy (when acute infection is unlikely), a sample (biopsy) of the affected lymph node is often necessary. This sample is processed in histology and pathology and the cells can be stained and thus displayed. In this way, the pathologist can point the way in order to clarify the etiology (cause) between benign and malignant diseases.

Occasionally, suspicious lymph nodes are surgically removed in their entirety and sent to the pathology department for tissue examination. This is often done during breast cancer surgery, among other things, to find out whether the tumor has already spread to surrounding lymph nodes. For this purpose, the first lymph node (sentinel lymph node, sentinel lymph node), which is connected to the tumor and into which the tumor would spread first, is "marked", removed and then examined histologically with a dye or radioactive labeling. The presence of a lymph node metastasis influences the patient's prognosis.

therapy

The therapy is from the root cause depending on the swelling.
At a infection you should take care of yourself and that immune system let the pathogen fight. Cooling does not relieve the symptoms of painfully swollen lymph nodes, but the body is better keep warm. Ultimately, it may be necessary to have the infection Medication, how Antibiotics and Antivirals, to treat.

At a Cancer come surgical measures for use (e.g. breast cancer lymph node metastases), or Chemotherapy (if necessary also with Lymph node metastases, often at Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and Hodgkin's disease).

More information can be found here: Therapy of lymph gland cancer

Swollen lymph nodes - what to do?

If the lymph nodes swell, the first thing to do is to stay calm. An enlargement does not necessarily mean that you have a serious illness and is even quite normal for some people. Occasionally, a few lymph nodes can be palpable and appear larger than they are, unnoticed by others. It is important to pay attention to the number of swellings and to whether the lymph nodes enlarge over time. Also gives the Tenderness (the Tenderness) Information about why the lymph node is swollen. A painful Lymph node swelling usually means that a inflammation and the body is currently trying to fight it. If you are in pain, it is not objectionable to consult a doctor and have the lymph nodes checked. If necessary, the immune system can be supported by antibiotics and thus the inflammation can be contained. The lymph node swelling then disappears on its own. A rapidly enlarging lymph node that also does not hurt, however, speaks for a more serious illness. It should be clarified whether it is a malignant tumor. Other signs of this can include night sweats, and a fever unwanted weight loss be.

Home remedies for swollen lymph nodes

Swollen lymph nodesthat occur as part of an infection show a Immune reaction of the body. Hence, one should be best keep warm. There is no recommended therapy for the lymph node swelling itself. Therefore, the Therapy after the underlying illness. So can with an infection Herbs and Anoint help that decongestant work and the Alleviate general symptoms.

When are antibiotics needed to treat lymph node swelling?

Antibiotics are in principle only then makes sense, when a bacterial infection present. Since not every swollen lymph node is an expression of an infection with bacteria, antibiotics are only needed in special situations.
Reasons for use are e.g. a Tonsillitis or sore throatthat cause swollen lymph nodes on the neck, a superficial one bacterial infection or Abscesses. Signs of bacterial infections are pain, fever, and purulent secretions. In the case of significant swelling of the lymph nodes in the head and neck area, the Epstein-Barr virus may be responsible. Antibiotics are contraindicated here and can even cause severe skin reactions.

Duration of lymph node swelling

To Duration the swelling swollen lymph nodes let yourself overall no definitive statement to meet. The exact duration of the swelling depends on the type and extent of the disease. In general it can be said that the duration of the swelling is approximately Duration of the underlying illness corresponds. For example, in the case of a cold or local inflammation that causes swollen lymph nodes, the swelling should decrease after the symptoms have subsided. This can take up to a week or two, depending on the case. In some cases, the swelling lasts a little longer than the actual discomfort.
At serious illnesses like one Lymphoma or one malignant tumor swollen lymph nodes are present significantly longer. Lymphomas and other types of cancer of the blood cells can cause swelling of the lymph nodes for years. These often only regress through specific therapy. In the case of swollen lymph nodes caused by a tumor, the swelling lasts until all tumor cells have been removed. Often the lymph nodes themselves are also removed.
All in all varies the Duration of the swelling and depends on Type and extent of the disease as well as therapy.

forecast

The prognosis is mostly very good, since almost all lymph node swellings are harmless short-term reactive lymphadenopathies acts.
If a Cancer is available, the prognosis depends on other factors such as Tumor spread, the Organ involvement and the metastasis from.

prophylaxis

At a cold can you Do not prevent lymph node swelling; it is necessary for the body Mobilizes immune cellsthat the Fight pathogens.
The lymph node swelling in the context of Tumor diseases you can also not prevent, but you can by observing your own body and through regular self-scanning a tumor disease sometimes discover early and should be at painless, growing lymph nodes See a doctor quickly and find the suspicious lymph node examine to let.
At Breast cancer has its own sampling of the chest, as well as scanning the Armpit a particularly important role after lymph node changes; women who have already had breast cancer in particular can get one Relapse (a relapse) recognize quickly.

Swollen tonsils and lymph node swelling

The Almonds sit on Transition from the mouth to the throat and are similar in structure and function to lymph nodes. Therefore, the tonsils can swell significantly as part of inflammation. Usually this is with one Tonsillitis (Tonsillitis) the case. The swelling can go so far that swallowing and breathing are impaired.
The tonsillitis caused in turn swollen lymph nodes. These are then mainly in Neck area to find. Inflammation of the tonsils can also result in swollen lymph nodes in the neck and jaw.
Read more about the topic here: Swollen tonsils

Can lymph nodes swell due to stress?

Swollen lymph nodes that go through alone Stress swell, are in medicine not described. The swelling is always one Response to an irritation by certain pathogens such as bacteria, tumor cells or a systemic infection. Stress alone usually gets swollen lymph nodes not emerge. However, stress can contribute to weakening the body's own defense system and e.g. to encourage infection. For example, swollen lymph nodes may be present longer and more pronounced under stress.

Can rheumatism cause lymph nodes to swell?

It's not particularly typical, but it can Lymph nodes swell from rheumatism. Especially if you have rheumatism inflammatory flare-up is in the foreground, swollen lymph nodes can be discovered.
These can occur in different parts of the body depending on the infestation pattern of the disease. If the inflammation decreases, the swollen lymph nodes also decrease.

Lymph node swelling during pregnancy

Swollen lymph nodes can also be found in the pregnancy occur. All of the above can be the cause of this trigger be that even in healthy people swollen lymph nodes cause. These include Infections, local inflammatory reactions and theoretically also tumor diseases.
In many cases, swollen lymph nodes during pregnancy are just as harmless. However, it must be remembered that not only the mother, but above all the unborn child can be harmed by certain diseases. This can be the case with certain infections that cause swollen lymph nodes. This includes above all in pregnancy measles, rubella, the CMV infection and infection with Varicella.
These can be at lack of immunity of the mother break out and in the worst case cause severe malformations in the unborn child. Hence, swollen lymph nodes should always be used during pregnancy carefully clarified become. In this way, specific therapy can be initiated quickly if necessary and further consequences can be prevented. Mostly, however, it is a harmless or unspecific lymph node swelling that does not require any special treatment.