Swollen glands, or lymph nodes, are small, bean-shaped structures that form an important part of the body’s immune system. They are distributed throughout the body, including clusters in the neck, under the chin, in the armpits, and the groin. These nodes act as filters, trapping viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances. When an infection or inflammation occurs, immune cells within these nodes multiply to fight off invaders, causing the nodes to swell.
Understanding Swollen Glands and Their Causes
Swollen lymph nodes commonly signal the body is actively combating an infection or inflammation. The most frequent culprits are viral infections, such as the common cold, influenza, or infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever), often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. These viruses trigger an immune response, leading to lymph node enlargement, particularly in the neck.
Bacterial infections are another common cause of swollen glands in the throat, including strep throat, tonsillitis, and dental infections like an abscessed tooth. Less commonly, swollen lymph nodes can be associated with allergic reactions. While rare, more serious underlying conditions, such as certain autoimmune disorders or, in infrequent instances, cancers like lymphoma, can also cause lymph node enlargement.
Home Remedies for Symptom Relief
Home remedies can help alleviate the discomfort of swollen glands. Applying a warm, moist compress to the affected area can help reduce pain and promote circulation. Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess, and gently hold it against the swollen glands.
Gargling with salt water is another effective measure for throat discomfort. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water and gargle for several seconds before spitting it out; this can be done hourly. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, warm broths, or caffeine-free teas, is important to support the immune system and keep the throat moist.
Adequate rest allows the body to conserve energy and focus its resources on fighting the underlying infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage pain and reduce inflammation. These remedies primarily offer symptomatic relief and do not address the root cause of the swelling.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
While many cases of swollen glands resolve on their own, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional if swollen lymph nodes have no clear cause or continue to enlarge. Seek medical advice if the swelling persists for more than two to four weeks, or if the glands feel hard, rubbery, or do not move when pressed.
Other concerning symptoms include unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, or night sweats accompanying the swelling. Difficulty swallowing or breathing, or if the swollen glands are red and tender, also requires immediate medical care. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring specific diagnosis and treatment.
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
When evaluating swollen glands, a doctor typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. During the physical exam, the doctor checks the size, tenderness, warmth, and texture of the lymph nodes. The location of swollen nodes can offer clues about the potential cause.
To pinpoint the exact cause, various diagnostic tests may be ordered. Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), help identify infections or other conditions. For suspected bacterial infections, a throat swab may be taken to test for specific bacteria like Streptococcus pyogenes. Imaging studies, like a chest X-ray or CT scan, might be used to look for sources of infection or tumors if the cause remains unclear. In some cases, a lymph node biopsy, where a small tissue sample is removed for microscopic examination, may be performed, particularly if cancer is suspected.
Treatment for swollen glands focuses on addressing the underlying cause. If a bacterial infection is diagnosed, antibiotics will be prescribed. For viral infections, such as the common cold, antibiotics are not effective, and treatment primarily involves managing symptoms until the virus runs its course. For specific viral infections like HIV, or autoimmune conditions, treatment targets the primary disease to resolve the swelling. If cancer is identified, specialized treatments such as surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy will be initiated.