Swollen lymph nodes are often the symptom of a bacterial or viral. Also, it cannot be excluded that they may be the consequence of an autoimmune disease or, rarely, a tumor. Even some medications, such as certain anti-epileptic, may lead to swollen lymph nodes.
The problem may affect the lymph nodes in the neck, those under the chin, those at the armpits or those found in the groin area and can be associated pain, sensitivity to touch and depending on the underlying cause, runny nose, sore throat, fever, swelling of the limbs and night sweats.
What kind of diseases can be associated with enlarged lymph nodes?
The following diseases may be associated with enlarged lymph nodes:
- AIDS
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Tooth abscess
- Cellulite
- Dengue
- Ebola
- Erysipelas
- Streptococcal infection
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Cat-scratch disease
- Chagas disease
- Tumor metastasis
- Mononucleosis
- Measles
- Otitis
- Mumps
- Rubella
- Syphilis
- Toxoplasmosis
- African trypanosomiasis
- Tuberculosis
- Anal cancer
- Cancers of the larynx
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for swollen lymph nodes?
In some cases warm wraps, painkillers and rest remedies are sufficient to see swollen lymph glands disappear. In particular, in most cases of infection by a virus you should wait until the problem resolves itself. Other times it is instead necessary to treat specifically the cause.
Bacterial infections can be effectively combated with appropriate antibiotics, while HIV infection requires the assumption of a specific therapy, as well as the presence of autoimmune diseases or a tumor.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of swollen lymph nodes?
In case of enlarged lymph nodes, it is good to seek medical attention if the problem appears suddenly for no apparent reason, if it lasts for more than two weeks or if it gets worse, if the lymph nodes seem hard or rough to the touch, and if the problem is associated with sustained fever, night sweats, sore throat, difficulty swallowing or breathing or an unjustified weight loss.
