Swollen lymph nodes can be concerning, but often indicate your body is fighting an infection. This article explores common reasons for swollen lymph nodes, specifically in the groin area.
What are Inguinal Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that are integral to the body’s immune system. They act as filters, monitoring and cleansing lymph fluid as it circulates throughout the body. Within these nodes, immune cells, such as lymphocytes, identify and neutralize foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and abnormal cells.
The inguinal lymph nodes are located in the groin, where the leg meets the pelvis. They filter lymph fluid from the lower extremities, lower abdomen, external genitalia, and perineum. Normally, these nodes are small, about 1/4 inch (6 mm), and are often not easily felt.
Common Causes of Swelling
Swollen inguinal lymph nodes usually indicate the body is combating an infection or inflammation in the drained areas. This enlargement occurs as immune cells multiply to fight threats. Swelling can be accompanied by tenderness, pain, warmth, or redness.
Infections of the lower extremities are a frequent cause of swollen inguinal lymph nodes. Conditions like cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, or fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and jock itch, can trigger this response. Even minor injuries or cuts on the legs or feet can lead to localized inflammation and subsequent lymph node swelling as the immune system works to clear the area.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are another common cause, given their role in draining the genital area. STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and genital herpes can enlarge these nodes. Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, is known for painful, swollen nodes. General genital or urinary tract infections (UTIs), including yeast infections, can also cause noticeable swelling.
Less Common but Serious Causes
While infections are most frequent, more serious conditions can also cause swollen inguinal lymph nodes. Certain cancers, such as lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system), can manifest as enlarged nodes. Cancers originating elsewhere, like melanoma, testicular, vulvar, or anal cancer, can spread to these nodes through metastasis. In such cases, the lymph nodes may feel hard or fixed.
Autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues, can sometimes cause generalized lymph node swelling, which may include the inguinal nodes. Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to this type of immune response. Less frequently, certain rare infections, such as cat scratch disease or tuberculosis, can also result in enlarged lymph nodes.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you notice swollen inguinal lymph nodes, especially if there isn’t an obvious cause like a recent infection or injury. Medical evaluation is particularly important if the swelling persists for more than a few weeks or continues to grow larger. Nodes that feel hard, are fixed in place, or are tender without a clear sign of infection warrant medical attention.
Accompanying symptoms like unexplained fever, night sweats, significant weight loss, or persistent fatigue warrant a doctor’s visit. If there’s no clear infection or injury, or if you suspect STI exposure, seek medical advice. A doctor can accurately diagnose the cause and determine the best course of action.