A swollen gland and sore throat are common discomforts. These symptoms indicate the body’s immune system is responding to an underlying issue. They can cause distress and interfere with daily activities.
Understanding the Symptoms
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures in the neck, armpits, and groin. These nodes filter viruses, bacteria, and other foreign particles as part of the immune system. Infection causes lymph nodes to swell as they produce white blood cells to fight pathogens.
A sore throat is characterized by pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat. Most sore throats result from viral infections like the common cold or influenza, causing throat inflammation. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, can also cause a sore throat.
Home Care and Relief Strategies
Home care often helps manage discomfort from swollen glands and a sore throat. Rest allows the body to conserve energy and fight infection. Staying hydrated with warm liquids like herbal teas, broth, or warm water with honey soothes the throat and thins mucus.
Gargling with salt water can reduce inflammation and help clear the throat. Dissolve 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 4 to 8 ounces of warm water, gargle for 10-15 seconds, then spit it out. Throat lozenges or hard candies stimulate saliva, keeping the throat moist and easing pain.
Additional Relief Measures
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen reduce throat pain, discomfort from swollen glands, and fever.
- A humidifier adds moisture to the air, soothing a dry throat and easing breathing, especially with nasal congestion. Maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50% and clean humidifiers regularly to prevent mold or bacteria.
- Applying a warm compress to tender, swollen glands can alleviate discomfort by increasing blood flow.
- Avoid irritants like cigarette smoke and allergens to prevent further throat irritation.
When Medical Attention is Necessary
While many cases resolve with home care, certain symptoms require medical evaluation. Severe difficulty breathing or swallowing warrants immediate medical attention. A high fever, especially if persistent or with chills, also requires a doctor’s visit.
Swollen glands that are unusually tender, red, hard, or continue to enlarge after several days may signal a more serious condition. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days of home management, consult a healthcare professional. A rash, unusual or one-sided swelling, or a weakened immune system are additional reasons to seek medical advice.
Medical Treatments and Diagnosis
Diagnosis for swollen glands and a sore throat typically begins with a physical examination. This involves inspecting the throat, ears, nose, and gently feeling the neck for swollen lymph nodes. To determine the cause, especially if strep throat is suspected, a rapid strep test may be performed. This quick throat swab yields results within minutes.
If the rapid test is negative but strep throat is still suspected, especially in children, a throat swab culture may be sent for more sensitive testing, with results in 24 to 48 hours.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, antibiotics are prescribed. Penicillin and amoxicillin are common choices for strep throat; complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent complications.
For viral infections, antibiotics are not effective, and treatment focuses on symptom relief. In some viral cases, antiviral medications might be considered, though less common for typical sore throats. Prescription pain relief may also be provided for severe discomfort.