The lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, transmitting waste, nutrients, and lymph fluid between the blood stream and tissues to keep the immune system functioning properly. Occasionally, lymph nodes get swollen or irritated. The following are some of the reasons why and what to do if this happens.
The Cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes
Sometimes lymph glands swell up in reaction to stress. In these cases, the symptoms may be remedied by taking over-the-counter pain relievers and placing a heating pad over the area. However, more often they are a sign of infection. In this case, if these simple remedies do not lower swelling or lessen pain, a doctor may need to prescribe an antibiotic to treat for possible bacterial infection, while a viral infection will clear up on its own over time.
On the other hand, they are sometimes a symptom of another, more serious underlying health condition such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, strep throat, Lyme disease, or cancer, to name a few.
The Treatment for Swollen Lymph Nodes
The Mayo clinic staff explains in the article "Swollen Lymph Nodes", that “Treatment for inflamed, swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenitis, depends on the cause.”
If a lymph node swells or becomes painful, take note of what other symptoms, if any, accompany the inflamed nodes, and consult a doctor immediately. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics and will most likely run blood tests. In some cases, an ultrasound will be ordered. Once other illnesses have been ruled out, the next step will most likely be to have a biopsy.
In her article "Lymph Node Biopsy", Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN, explains that the first type of needle biopsy is called a fine needle biopsy in which fluid is removed from the node. The second is called a core needle biopsy, in which a larger needle is used to cut out a piece of tissue from the node. Alternatively, a lymph node may be removed from the body and sent to a lab to be biopsied. This method, called an open biopsy, is done as an outpatient and takes about 60 minutes. After this procedure, stitches will be used to close the skin and the patient will go to a recovery room.
It is important when dealing with an inflamed node to remain calm. Although swollen lymph nodes may be an indication of cancer, they may alternatively be a symptom of other less-invasive health problems. Visit a doctor at the first sign of lymph gland problems to formulate the right treatment plan.
Linda Hatton - Linda Hatton has a BFA in Acting from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. Her work has appeared in Rainy Days, The Writing on the Wall, on ...
Join the Conversation