Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that play a significant role in the body’s immune system. They act as filters throughout the body and are part of the lymphatic system. Many are located in the neck, becoming particularly noticeable when they swell.
What Lymph Nodes Do
Lymph nodes support the immune system by filtering lymph fluid. This fluid circulates throughout the body, collecting waste products, foreign particles, and damaged cells. As lymph passes through the nodes, they trap harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells. Lymph nodes also house immune cells, including lymphocytes, which fight off infections. The cleansed lymph fluid then returns to the bloodstream, maintaining the body’s internal balance.
Common Reasons for Swelling
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck often signal the body is fighting an infection or inflammation. The most frequent causes are infections, both viral and bacterial. Common viral infections like the common cold, influenza, mononucleosis, and HIV can lead to noticeable swelling. Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, skin infections, or an abscessed tooth, also commonly cause nearby lymph nodes to enlarge. The swelling occurs as immune cells within the nodes multiply to combat pathogens.
Inflammatory conditions, though less common, can also contribute to lymph node enlargement. Autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis may sometimes trigger this response. In rare instances, swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of certain cancers, including lymphoma or metastatic cancer that has spread from other areas. However, infections are overwhelmingly the most common reason for lymph node swelling.
When to Consult a Doctor
While swollen lymph nodes are frequently a temporary sign of the body’s immune response, certain characteristics warrant medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if swelling persists for longer than two to four weeks. Nodes that feel hard, rubbery, or fixed in place are concerning indicators. Accompanying symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, or night sweats should prompt immediate medical attention.
Rapidly growing or very painful lymph nodes without an obvious infection also suggest the need for professional assessment. Swelling in children without a clear cause should also be evaluated by a doctor. These signs provide important information for a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate next steps.
Understanding Diagnosis and Care
When evaluating swollen lymph nodes, a healthcare provider typically begins with a thorough physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history. This assesses the size, texture, and tenderness of the nodes, and any other symptoms. Depending on initial findings, further diagnostic tests may be recommended. These could include blood tests for infection or inflammation, or imaging scans like ultrasound or CT scans.
If the cause remains unclear or a serious condition is suspected, a lymph node biopsy may be performed. The care approach for swollen lymph nodes depends on the underlying cause. Bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotics, while viral infections often resolve on their own. For most instances, lymph nodes return to their normal size once the underlying issue is addressed.