How to find out if the lymph nodes are enlarged. Symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes

The human lymphatic system performs the following important functions: protective, transport and immune. One of its main constituent elements is the collection of lymph nodes.

But sometimes they become inflamed. Why are the lymph nodes in the neck inflamed? Causes (in children and adults) of this condition? You will find answers to these questions in this article.

Where are the lymph nodes in the neck (location, photo)

Lymph nodes are located on the body in large groups, concentrating in those places where they can most actively resist various emerging infections and diseases. A group of lymph nodes located on the neck protects the brain and the neck itself from infections and tumors.

On the neck, the nodes are divided into the following types:

• chin;
• occipital;
• anterior cervical superficial;
• posterior cervical superficial;
• anterior cervical deep;
• posterior cervical deep;
• submandibular;
• ear.

Normal sizes for adults

Table 1. List of probable diseases, a sign of which is lymphadenopathy of the cervical lymph nodes

The condition is either acute or chronic. In most cases, lymphadenopathy is not dangerous and disappears without a trace.

Changes in the size of the formation may be accompanied by some symptoms, for example:

1. Increase in body temperature. This symptom often accompanies inflammation. In the initial stages, subfebrile temperature occurs. With severe inflammation of the lymph nodes, the thermometer can exceed 39 degrees.
2. Violation of performance. An inflamed lymph node in the neck leads to increased fatigue, decreased concentration and drowsiness.
3. Headache. If the lymph node on the neck is inflamed on the right or left, then this can cause a lingering headache.
4. Digestive disorders. Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stool disturbance are signs that the lymph node on the neck is inflamed on the left or right.

Asymptomatic enlargement of formations is also quite common and requires examination.

What do swollen cervical lymph nodes look like?

It is quite possible to identify an increase in education on your own. For the timely diagnosis of diseases, it is necessary to have an understanding of what an inflamed lymph node looks like on the neck. Next, consider the main evaluation criteria.

Table 2. Signs that allow you to understand what swollen lymph nodes in the neck look like

How to determine?

Various methods are used to assess the visual state and structure of formations. How to determine the inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck:

1. Anamnesis. Patients often complain of discomfort or pain when chewing, swallowing, speaking, or turning their heads.
2. By visual inspection. Inflammation of the lymph nodes is visible from the side. The nodes themselves swell, in some cases quite strongly. The skin around it turns red, swelling appears, an allergic reaction may occur. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the back of the neck is clearly visible if you turn your head to the side.
3. With the help of palpation. Inflammation of the lymph nodes of the neck is easy to identify by touch. The structure of education changes, it becomes loose and bumpy. In the presence of adhesions, the node is inactive.

Reasons why nodes become inflamed

The main task for the appointment of competent therapy is to determine the underlying disease. The causes of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes are different, they include:

1. Draft. This is the most harmless reason. To cure inflammation in this case is quite simple.
2. Autoimmune diseases. Pathologies leading to the production of killer cells that damage healthy tissues and provoke a persistent inflammatory process. These include: arthritis, systemic connective tissue diseases, dermatomyositis, etc.
3. Tumor diseases. The reasons why the lymph node in the neck becomes inflamed include lymphosarcoma and lymphogranulomatosis.
4. Purulent processes. Infectious lesions can lead to the development of an abscess or phlegmon.
5. . Predominantly, tuberculosis leads to an increase in nodes localized in the chest area (axillary and supraclavicular nodes). In rare cases, the pathology affects the cervical formations.
6. . The increase is due to an excessive immune response of the body.
7. HIV, mononucleosis, brucellosis. Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck in an adult or child, which persists for a long time, refers to the symptoms of dangerous diseases.
8. traumatic impact. A blow to the neck can lead to an increase in nodes.

Symptoms and signs

In addition to the obvious sign, which consists in a change in the size and structure of the lymph node, the cause, the underlying disease, has a significant influence on the nature of the symptoms.

Inflammation of the cervical lymph node on the one hand can be a symptom of damage to the tonsils, throat or thyroid gland. If the diameter of the lymph nodes during palpation does not exceed 1 centimeter, then there is no cause for concern.

However, if the examination causes pain, then it is important to differentiate the cause. Serious pathologies are accompanied by symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, such as:

• change in the consistency of nodes (hardness, softening);
• discomfort or pain during the activity of the affected area (a symptom accompanies swallowing, chewing, yawning, etc.);
• fever, chills, fever;
• dry cough;
• dyspeptic disorders (symptoms and signs: diarrhea, heartburn, vomiting);
• headache;
• fatigue, drowsiness, lethargy.

Such sensations mainly indicate diseases of the upper respiratory tract of various etiologies. Patients often also have:

1. Diseases of the ear-nose-throat group: tonsillitis, sinusitis, etc.
2. Diseases of the oral cavity: stomatitis, pulpitis, gingivitis, etc.
3. : damage to the node itself due to injury or infection.
4. Oncological diseases: cancer of the lung, breast, esophagus with metastases in the nodes, etc.
5. Infectious diseases. Accompanied by discomfort, inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck (the symptoms on the neck may not be visually noticeable, but pain is present) occurs with tuberculosis, mononucleosis, herpes, etc.

If an increase in nodes accompanies a sore throat, then most likely the cause is an infectious disease. The key task is to identify the causative bacterium during the study and recommend competent therapy.

It is unlikely that you will be able to cope with the disease on your own. Most often, BAC culture is recommended to determine the cause of inflammation.

Lump on lymph node

The condition requires immediate medical attention. A lump on a lymph node in the neck, combined with fever, lethargy and chills, is a symptom of dangerous diseases.

If the mass is the only sign found, then a cancerous or benign tumor should be excluded.

Leads to the appearance of a bump:

• furuncle (acute inflammation provoked by blockage of the sebaceous gland);
• carbuncle (large inflammation that affects several hair follicles);
• lipoma (benign tumor);
• fibroma (benign education);
• lymphogranulomatosis, etc.

Any of the above reasons can lead to the condition. According to statistics, the most common symptom in children is associated with exposure to an infection or virus.

The lesion can be localized in any organs located in this area. Multiple swelling is a sign of a common infection. Diagnosis and treatment is carried out by a pediatrician.

lymph nodes are important defenders of our body against infections. It is they who decide which bacteria and viruses to let into the body and which not. They also serve as gates in the opposite direction. Probably everyone knows where the main groups of lymph nodes are located: on the neck, in the armpits, in the groin. In fact, there are many more.

Surely, many have preserved such memories from childhood: mother feels her head with her lips and examines her neck with her fingers. Of course, she was trying to determine if her child was sick in this way. After all, a hot head and enlarged lymph nodes are the first signs of a cold.

In the normal state, the size of the lymph node should not exceed 1 cm, it is easily palpable and does not cause pain. With an increase in lymph nodes, they cease to be elastic, they cause pain, provoke swelling. Causes can be infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer. The fact is that during normal operation of the lymph node, it retains pathogenic microorganisms. But in some cases, white blood cells - the main inhabitants of the lymph, do not cope with their task, and the number of harmful foreign elements instantly begins to grow. But lymphocytes do not immediately “give up”, they try, their number also increases and the lymph nodes, respectively, become larger.

Cause of swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If the lymph nodes in the neck are swollen, then this means that they have increased the number of white blood cells, which indicates the appearance of an infection in the nearest organs. A hard lymph node in the neck may indicate that you have a cold, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, rubella, some kind of ear disease, etc. That is, this body is able to signal, and we, in turn, must correctly evaluate this signal and consult a doctor in time. For example, if the lymph node on the neck on the right hurts, then most likely it works more actively than others. This suggests that the disease is already occurring, or has already passed. After some time, the lymph node will again take its usual size.

Allocate local and generalized inflammation. If only one group of lymph nodes is affected, then this is a local lesion, if lymph nodes that are not connected to each other are concerned, this is a sign of generalized inflammation.

Diseases

An increase in lymph nodes may indicate both the onset of simple diseases, such as, for example, and serious ones, such as oncology.

One of the terrible oncological diseases is cancer of the lymph nodes in the neck, the symptoms of which are nodes inflamed under the chin, as well as high fever and weakness. To determine the presence or absence of cancer cells in a patient, a biopsy of the lymph node in the neck is taken. But this procedure can also be carried out to confirm or refute other diagnoses.

How to check the lymph nodes in the neck?

First of all, you need to find the lymph nodes with your fingers and feel them. You can do this yourself before going to the doctor. If your lymph nodes are inflamed, you will feel that they are enlarged. In addition, palpation will cause pain. Also, inflammation of the lymph nodes, most often, is accompanied by fever, headache, chills and other unpleasant cold symptoms.

If, in addition, severe pain is felt in the area where the lymph node is located and redness appears, then the purulent process may have already begun and this is a reason to rush to seek urgent medical help. The doctor will determine the cause of the inflammation and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

To be able to check the lymph nodes, you must first find out exactly where they are located. These elements of the lymphatic system are not evenly distributed throughout the body. They are present only in the area not lower than the level of the knees, a lot of them are concentrated in the neck area, primarily under the lower jaw, as well as on the abdomen, near the sternum and in the armpits. These formations may have different sizes, but, as a rule, do not exceed 0.5-1 cm in the normal state. In an effort to check the lymph nodes, refer to the diagram of their placement on the body.

It is also important to check the lymph nodes because an increase in any of them often serves as an identifier for the appearance of inflammation in this particular part of the body. In other words, inflammation of the lymph nodes, for example, in the neck will indicate problems with the throat, ears, eyes - organs located in the head area. Swelling of the elements on the chest may indicate the onset of respiratory or other ailments. In some parts of the body, it will not be difficult to check the lymph nodes by simple palpation.

If you are going to check the lymph nodes located in the neck near the jaw, slightly raise your head. Gently feel with your hands the neck muscles that are tensed at the same time, those that are responsible for turning the head and nodding it. Slightly move the muscle tissue to the side and touch the place under the lower jaw, closer to its corners. If at the same time you feel rolling balls resembling peas, you can assume that you managed to check the lymph nodes. With their actual increase, such palpation will be very painful for you.

In a similar way, it is possible to check the lymph nodes in the armpits. Raising your hand, gently feel the entire armpit from its center and gradually lower down to the side of the chest. The fact that it is not tensed muscle tissues that come across under your arm, namely the lymph nodes, will again be evidenced by the sensation of balls rolling under your fingers. It will not be possible to check the lymph nodes, which are really enlarged, painlessly: touching them in such a case will be extremely unpleasant.

Sometimes, to check the lymph nodes, you don’t even have to feel them. In some cases, their increase is very noticeable: a tubercle appears on the skin in the right place, sometimes very large in size, which reacts painfully to any careless touch to it. However, this happens mainly with the submandibular, cervical, axillary, sometimes abdominal lymph nodes. An increase in those elements of the lymphatic system that are located inside the chest or abdomen cannot be traced outwardly. Only a targeted examination by a doctor will help here.

Lymph nodes (LN) are an organ of the human immune system that is the first to respond to infections of any nature that enter the body.

The reaction manifests itself as an increase in the lymph nodes in the neck, in advanced cases, the nodes begin to hurt, thicken and harden, causing serious discomfort to the patient and provoking the development of other pathologies. At the same time, those organs that are closest to the place of introduction of pathogens will increase.

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Classmates

An increase in cervical lymph nodes suggests that the focus of infection is in the upper respiratory tract or other organs located in close proximity to them. But sometimes the reasons for the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck in women or children may be different - in order to accurately establish them and begin treatment, you will need the help of a specialist.

You need to know: if the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, the causes are most often in an adenovirus infection or a common cold. But sometimes it is a symptom of more serious diseases that threaten health and even human life. Rubella, measles, toxoplasmosis, mononucleosis - this is what causes the lymph nodes in the neck to increase.

How to understand that the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged?

Parents of young children often ask pediatricians how to understand if the lymph nodes in the child's neck are enlarged with a cold, for example. Yes, and a sick adult will also not be superfluous to find out the main symptoms.

If the lymph nodes in the neck and behind the ear are enlarged, this usually manifests itself as soft seals under the chin and in the upper part of the neck. They may be slightly painful or not bother the patient at all. In severe cases, when the lymph nodes in the neck are very enlarged, the seals harden, solder, they are clearly visible - they reach the size of a chicken egg.

Here's how to understand that the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged on their own if the doctor is not yet available:

• an enlarged lymph node on the neck is visually visible as a bulge of various diameters - from 1.5 to 5–7 cm;
• the consistency and structure of the organ changes, it becomes bumpy, adhesions with surrounding tissues are often noted - then the node loses its mobility;
• the skin over the LU may turn red, swell, become covered with a rash;
• when the posterior cervical lymph nodes are enlarged, the patient feels discomfort and even pain when swallowing;
• if the lymph nodes in the back of the neck are enlarged significantly, pain often occurs when the head is turned or tilted.

When the cervical lymph nodes are enlarged, local symptoms are supplemented, as a rule, by general ones, which ones depend on the causative agent of the disease, its form and severity. Usually these are the classic signs of a cold:

• increase in body temperature;
• weakness and drowsiness;
• lack of appetite;
• joint and headaches;
• rarely nausea and other dyspeptic disorders.

An asymptomatic enlargement of the organs of the lymphatic system does not mean that there is no cause for concern - it is recommended to consult a doctor anyway and try to establish the causes of this phenomenon.

Causes of enlarged cervical lymph nodes

In the human body, nothing ever happens just like that. - this is a kind of guard post, if there is a change in them - this means that some kind of disease develops, the immune system responds to it, fights it. To help her, you need to find out what exactly was the impetus for the development of pathology.

Nonspecific infections

Nonspecific infections are those that are caused by opportunistic microorganisms, that is, E. coli, fungi, and so on. Usually this:

• any forms and degrees;
• diseases of the oral cavity - gingivitis, candidiasis, periodontitis.

In this case, it is a complication of the underlying disease, one node, paired lymph nodes or their group localized in one part of the body is affected. It develops in three stages: catarrhal, purulent, lymphadenoma. As the main disease that caused inflammation of the lymph nodes is treated and eliminated, the development of lymphadenitis stops already at the first stage. With suppuration, it is necessary to do a mechanical opening, clean it and prescribe antibiotics and local antiseptics.

Remember: mechanical damage or injury directly to the LU or neighboring tissues, infected wounds of the scalp can also cause an increase and change in the structure of the organ. Lymphadenitis often develops against the background of furunculosis, with carbuncles and abscesses.

Specific pathogens

Persistent enlargement and thickening of the lymph nodes is one of the main signs of such diseases:

• rubella;
• syphilis and some others.

At the same time, not only the cervical organs are enlarged, the axillary, inguinal, and elbow organs also change. If left untreated, the nodes become soldered and extensive seals form, which then begin to accumulate pus and transform into fistulas. If the cervical lymph nodes are enlarged, the causes in adults may be in sexually transmitted diseases. In patients with syphilis, the lymph nodes are moderately enlarged, not always painful, and there are no adhesions.

In some cases, lymphadenitis develops in children after vaccination - no special treatment is required, only observation by a pediatrician. In women and girls, sometimes these organs become larger before the onset of menstruation, during pregnancy, after childbirth, or with the onset of menopause. After some time, the situation stabilizes on its own, drug treatment is also not required, but medical supervision will not hurt.

Autoimmune processes

In pathologies of autoimmune origin, the human immune system, under the influence of various factors, begins to perceive the cells of an organ as foreign and destroys them. They may suffer:

• joint tissues;
• glands of the endocrine system;
• liver and hematopoietic system;
• digestive organs;

A group of diseases provoked by a somatic or hereditary mutation of the genes responsible for the process of apoptosis of dangerous clones of T-lymphocytes is called autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome. ALS is always accompanied by lymphadenopathy, associated pathological conditions are cytopenia and splenomegaly.

The disorder may be congenital - in this case, it manifests itself on the 14th-16th day of the baby's life. Or spontaneous somatic, then the violation is found in preschool children, schoolchildren or adolescents. Both boys and girls suffer from ALS with the same frequency, the prognosis of the pathology is uncertain or unfavorable. Treatment is reduced to the use of suppressive and cytotoxic drugs.

Also, swollen cervical lymph nodes are usually found in HIV-infected and suffering from AIDS.

It is worth knowing: it is noted that more often the lymph node on the neck on the right side of an adult is enlarged with a tendency to be overweight and flabby. Excess weight also has its own reasons, and is always accompanied by at least metabolic and digestive disorders, which cannot but affect the state of the immune system. A person who does not monitor body weight and nutrition automatically falls into the risk group, this must be remembered.

Oncological diseases

Malignant formations in any internal organs also cause an increase in LU. This happens when cancer cells have left the focus of education and spread along with the lymph flow.

LNs during lymph filtration secrete and accumulate cancer cells, which leads to their increase. The growth of lymph nodes is used by oncologists as one of the diagnostic criteria. To make an accurate diagnosis, in addition to the standard ones, it is necessary to conduct such studies:

• detailed blood test for tumor markers;
• biopsy.

With lymphosarcoma, not neighboring organs are affected, but the lymph nodes themselves, such a pathology is much less common. It manifests itself as a sharp and noticeable increase in the LU, while they remain painless to the touch for a long time if the tumor does not compress the nerve endings and blood vessels. The causes of development are the malignant transformation of mutated cells; the factors provoking the mutation have not yet been established.

How to determine why the lymph nodes have increased?

To establish the reasons for the increase in LU, a detailed blood test is needed. They can be preliminarily determined by examining the patient, questioning him and assessing his general condition.

One side (left or right)

An enlarged lymph node on the right side of the neck is most often found with prolonged or acute tonsillitis. If the lymph node on the neck is enlarged on the left side, most likely, the focus of infection is localized in the left tonsil. An enlarged lymph node on the neck on the left can also indicate dental pathologies:

• the presence of a carious tooth;
• pulpitis;
• periodontitis.

Important: is it found that the lymph node on the neck is enlarged on one side? The cause may be scratches from pets, in particular cats. On their claws, cats carry many infections, one of the most dangerous is toxoplasmosis. At the same time, they themselves do not get sick, but they can easily infect their owner. That is why all scratches and wounds should be immediately disinfected with an alcohol solution, and if scratches fester and the LU increases, immediately consult a doctor.

At both sides

If the lymph nodes in the neck in adults are enlarged, the reasons can be very different. In most cases, this is a consequence of chronic infection in the body, stress, beriberi, less often - metabolic disorders. If the nodes do not return to their normal size, but remain mobile and painless, there is reason to suspect the development of oncological processes.

Behind

The posterior cervical lymph nodes are enlarged with such a pathological process as rubella. At the same time, the LU first increases, and then a characteristic rash appears on the back of the neck, other symptoms of the disease join.

If the posterior cervical lymph node is enlarged, the causes may also be injuries to the head, neck, upper limbs, chest, or back.

Behind the ear

Behind the ear or behind the two ears, the lymph nodes often swell after hypothermia or with acute or chronic otitis media. Otitis is especially often diagnosed in young children, it is characterized by the following symptoms:

• severe pain in the ear canals;
• an increase in body temperature - sometimes up to 39–40 degrees;
• purulent discharge from the ear (may be absent).

Exacerbation occurs in the evening and at night. Manifestations of rubella or chickenpox are another explanation why the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged.

What to do?

If the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, what to do - only the doctor should decide. In this case, it is more useful to know what not to do: do not engage in self-diagnosis and self-treatment. Without a special examination and analysis, it is impossible to determine exactly why the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged. This means that it is also impossible to find an adequate treatment.

]Remember: sometimes the reasons for the enlargement of the lymph nodes on the neck on one side cannot be established, they simply become larger, and after a certain period of time they return to normal. Examination does not reveal any violations and hidden pathologies. If the lymph node in the neck is enlarged, but there are no other alarming symptoms, constantly monitor the state of the node and the body. You need to see a doctor urgently when the node is enlarged for a long time and begins to cause discomfort.

Useful video

Useful information about human lymph nodes can be found in the following video:

Conclusion

1. - a pathological condition characterized by an increase in the LU, often accompanied by redness of the skin in the affected area, a change in the structure and mobility of the node, and an increase in body temperature (lymphadenitis).
2. Causes of pathology in most cases: infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract, inflammation of the ear apparatus, head injuries, specific infections, less often - autoimmune diseases or oncological processes.
3. How to determine if the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged: the inflamed node is visually visible as a bulge on the neck or behind the ear, pain or discomfort occurs on palpation, the skin above it may be reddened and hot, there are symptoms of general intoxication of the body. To make an accurate diagnosis, a doctor's consultation and examination are necessary.
4. Since an increase in the LU can be a sign of pathologies that threaten the life of the patient, this condition cannot be ignored and triggered. Even if the patient has no complaints, the node does not hurt, but is enlarged for a long time, you should seek medical help as soon as possible and be examined.

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Many people know that enlarged lymph nodes in the neck can be felt on their own, however, for a more accurate diagnosis of the pathology, you need to consult a doctor. It is important to distinguish between lymphadenopathy, when the parts of the lymphatic system simply become larger, and lymphadenitis, accompanied by an inflammatory process. We will talk about how to understand that the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged in this article.

Self-diagnosis of enlarged neck nodes

With lymphadenopathy, the size of several groups of lymph nodes usually change, but the skin over them remains the same color. Palpation, as a rule, makes it possible to detect not a single lymph node, but several such formations, or a conglomerate consisting of links of the lymphatic system of different consistency and diameter.

If a person finds that the cervical lymph nodes have become hard and dense, then they are likely to have a metastatic origin. Dense and elastic formations often indicate the presence of lymphoma, and soft ones indicate an infectious or inflammatory process.

Lymphadenitis - an increase in the nodes of the neck, accompanied by soreness. It is very easy to recognize it, because there is a change in the appearance of the affected areas and other symptoms. So, a person's health is noticeably deteriorating.

How to determine the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck? It is necessary to look at the location of the formations. With lymphadenitis, the skin over the lymph node turns red, since the process is inflammatory. In case of suppuration of the affected area, a person's body temperature rises and the state of health worsens. At the initial stage of the disease, the seal looks like a large boil, later its outlines become more blurred and it loses its mobility.

As the pathology develops, additional symptoms usually appear: headache, loss of appetite up to a complete refusal to eat, and a decrease in working capacity. In the case of timely treatment, the swelling on the neck finally disappears on the fourth day. A neglected disease not only causes a lot of inconvenience, but can also lead to the development of complications that are dangerous to human life and health.

Palpation will help to identify a deviation from the norm. The pathological process, as a rule, is indicated by pain that occurs when probing suspicious areas. A mass larger than 2.5 cm in diameter usually becomes noticeable as the skin above it begins to bulge. an enlarged lymph node can range from a small bean to a walnut.

A low-virulent infectious disease sometimes causes chronic hypoplastic lymphadenitis. At the same time, enlarged and almost painless nodes of the neck are probed. Over time, they scar and become hard nodules.

Diagnostic medical measures

A physical examination allows you to give an initial assessment of the state of the cervical lymph nodes and understand if there is an increase in them. First of all, the doctor examines the patient and palpates suspicious areas. With the help of these procedures, it is possible to determine the size of the formations, as well as their mobility, consistency and the possible origin of the pathological process.

In addition, the following studies are applied:

• clinical blood test;
• throat swab;
• test for antibodies to the human herpes virus of the fourth type;
• Ultrasound of the lymph nodes;
• biopsy.

The latter diagnostic method is especially important if the doctor suspects a patient has an oncological disease, as a result of which metastasis of the lymph nodes occurred. In the case of a malignant process, superficial cervical formations rise above the skin and have rounded contours. On palpation, they are inactive, painless, have a densely elastic consistency.

Almost every person understands that a change in the size of the lymph nodes is a sign of a disease. However, having discovered a deviation from the norm, you should not immediately sound the alarm, since the formations on the neck on the neck sometimes increase in response to an infection that has already been transferred. By self-palpation, a pathological process can be assumed, but to clarify the diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Cervical lymph nodes are located in the region of the cervical vertebrae. Each one looks like an oval seal.

Their location in the human body is varied - some lie deep in the tissues, others are easy to feel under the skin on both sides of the neck. The anterior cervical lymph nodes lying under the thyroid gland are not palpated.

The role of the lymph nodes

The role of lymph nodes is reduced to protective functions. The cells they produce quickly respond to the penetration of any pathogens and try to immediately eliminate them. Since this requires a large number of lymphocytes, the nodes enlarge.

Normal sizes for adults

In a healthy body normal sizes of lymph nodes in adults range from half a centimeter to two centimeters in size. The inflamed node can increase significantly and bring serious trouble.

Enlargement and soreness are the main symptom of lymphadenitis

They are easy to feel, they are mobile, more often they are solid. If pus has collected inside, then they can be soft. Sometimes inflammation is not accompanied by pain.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck. Main symptoms

The general symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes are similar to the manifestations of acute respiratory infections. As a rule, there is an increase in nodes. To the touch, they can become hard, or in case of suppuration - soft..

Pain is also felt when swallowing, or if you just touch the inflamed node. The skin over the knot turns red, while the person feels weakened. The body temperature rises and a headache is possible.

Causes if the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged

The causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are most often infections, both viral and bacterial. Penetrating into the body during acute respiratory infections, they induce the defenses to fight, which provokes their growth. A distinctive feature - in this case, the increase is insignificant, and the pain is mild. All manifestations disappear as they recover.

Cervical and thoracic lymph nodes can increase under the influence of infections that cause diseases such as tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, brucellosis. If there are changes in the lymph nodes, but there was no acute respiratory disease, you should immediately consult a doctor for a detailed diagnosis.

In some cases, an increase can be caused by allergic reactions, such as to chemicals, drugs, pollen from certain plants, or animal dander.

The cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck can also be an oncological disease.

In this case, the nodes themselves are directly affected. Lymphogranulomatosis or lymphosarcoma cause an increase of several centimeters, while there is no pain on palpation. Change of nodes can be caused by a metastatic lesion, but the epicenter may be located elsewhere in the body.

Soreness of the lymph nodes is caused by pus that accumulates in them. At the same time, they remain mobile, they can reach 5 cm. The softness and elasticity of the node is considered a better symptom than the absence of pain and hardness.

The growth of nodes can be caused by metastases that got there with the lymph flow. This is also a reason to immediately consult a doctor, since there can be many reasons, and treatment should be targeted.

Features of inflammation of the posterior lymph nodes

Features of inflammation of the posterior lymph nodes are the presence of infections in the head and neck. If changes are noticed, an examination should be carried out immediately.

The increase may be caused by boils. Often, the posterior nodes are enlarged due to ear inflammation. In this case, you must consult a doctor. In some cases, changes in the lymph nodes can cause inflammation in the throat.

Changes in color or enlargement of the tonsils can also be the cause.
Causes of inflammation of the posterior cervical nodes can also be sinusitis and oral diseases such as gingivitis, caries or stomatitis.

Important to remember! An increase in lymph nodes can be caused by any infectious processes in the body., and the changes may persist for some time after the symptoms disappear.

An urgent reason to see a doctor may be the persistence of an increase in the lymph node for a long time, or changes for the worse, such as soreness, redness, a reddish skin tone.

No warm-ups or lotions needed.

Since this can provoke additional complications.

In what cases are the nodes under the chin inflamed

Inflammation of the nodes under the chin can be caused by a chronic infection that has settled in the airways or auricle. Most often, the cause can be banal caries.

This form is characterized by a gradual manifestation of symptoms. Since the lymphadenitis is small at first, it is difficult to feel it. There is no difficulty in opening the jaws. For many, this becomes a reason not to see a doctor, which in the future is fraught with the development of lymphadenopathy, which involves the gradual growth of nodes.

The increase in submandibular lymph nodes can be divided into two types:

• local;
• generalized.

The second form is more common. An increase is observed immediately in the cervical region and in the submandibular region. The local form involves an increase in only one place. This form is rare.

The process of increase itself occurs under the influence of two types of infections:

• specific;
• non-specific.

An increase in a specific infection occurs with parotitis, when an increase in nodes occurs in several places at once. The lower part of the face is completely affected.

There are times when the reasons for the increase in nodes cannot be established b. In this scenario, a biopsy is recommended. For analysis, a piece of tissue is removed and subjected to microscopic examination. In addition to lymphocytes, leukocytes and bacteria, cancer cells can be detected. In this case, ultrasound, MRI and other research activities are prescribed.

It is important to remember that if you take action in time, you can prevent the mostserious outcome up to death.

What does an enlarged lymph node on the neck on one side indicate?

An enlarged lymph node on the neck on the one hand indicates an abnormal process in the lymph nodes. If the increase has occurred, then the nodes can no longer cope with the infection. Excessively active reproduction of microorganisms is not suppressed by lymphocytes. Initially, working cells rush to the place where infections accumulate and seek to eliminate them.

After a certain time, when the possibilities of the protective function are exhausted, and the source of infections remains in force, an increase begins, which becomes chronic.

Depending on the origin, the process proceeds differently.

1. In the oncological origin of the increase, nodes can form conglomerates. As a result of the penetration of the infection, its growth occurs up to 2 cm. The nodes do not gather in bundles and retain an elastic texture. Often all this is accompanied by inflammation of the soft tissues.
2. Bacterial inflammation causes large changes, with accompanying redness and pus in the tissues.
3. With a fungal origin, the nodes grow slowly, the texture thickens. They are characterized by high temperature.

What to do if the lymph nodes in the neck hurt

If the lymph nodes in the neck hurt, then you can’t do without a visit to the doctor. Treatment is individual in nature and is excluded without professional diagnosis with the correct setting of the type and stage of changes. If against the background of pain manifestations in the lymph nodes there is a general deterioration in the condition, then, first of all, it is necessary to exclude physical activity.

Given that lymphadenitis is caused by inflammatory processes, it cannot be eliminated without medical treatment. Anti-inflammatory painkillers are usually prescribed.

Echinacea treatment can be an addition to the main treatment. You need to take it up to 4 times a day, 15 drops. An additional intake of vitamin C is shown, which stimulates the formation of leukocytes in the body. Sometimes UHF therapy is also prescribed. Surgical intervention is resorted to in extreme cases.

Types of treatment for lymph nodes

The types of treatment for lymph nodes depend on the origin of the inflammation. If the changes occurred under the influence of a penetrating virus, then, as they recover, the nodes also return to normal.

The infection that caused changes in the nodes is treated with antibiotics. For the treatment of inflamed lymph nodes caused by HIV infection, specialized treatment is prescribed under the guidance of a specialist.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes on an autoimmune background, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, is a side symptom. The disease itself needs to be cured first. The increase will pass as a symptom.

Changes in the lymph nodes due to oncology may require removal, or treatment with radiation or chemotherapy.

What not to do with lymphadenitis

Having discovered lymphadenitis in yourself, it is important not only to know what needs to be done, but also what cannot be done. It is highly undesirable to indulge in self-treatment.

It is strictly forbidden to carry out heating in places of seals, because, if they contain an infection, it will be activated and spread faster throughout the body. The penetration of microbes into the brain is especially dangerous.

If the changes appeared against the background of oncology, then thermal procedures can cause the spread of metastases.

You can not resort to massage, as this can cause the infection to spread throughout the body through the lymph flow, and as a result there is a chance of getting a general blood poisoning.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck in a child

The causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck in a child, as in an adult, come down to the presence of an infection in the body. Given that the cervical lymph nodes control the mouth, nose, pharynx and bronchi, and in children these are the most vulnerable places, viruses and bacteria penetrate the body and actively attack the nodes.

Usually, the penetration of pathogenic agents is accompanied by symptoms of acute respiratory infections or influenza. But the nodes often cope with the disease on their own.

Chronic enlargement of the lymph nodes in a child older than three years indicates caries, or a disease of the oral cavity with inflammatory processes.

You can't let things go by themselves, because inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck can take a chronic form. What provokes changes in other lymph nodes, and in addition, the effectiveness of the protective properties of the entire immune system decreases.

Ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck (in which cases is required)

Ultrasound of the lymph nodes of the neck is prescribed by a doctor and is required according to indications:

• swollen lymph nodes due to infection, if after recovery they do not decrease;
• changed for no apparent reason;
• increased, and in parallel the temperature rose;
• lymph nodes in different areas of the body are easily palpable with fingers.

An urgent indication for research is a sharp difference in size and suspicion of a number of diseases, such as tuberculosis or syphilis. Ultrasound of the lymph nodes is of an auxiliary nature and involves a more detailed diagnosis.

Only an increase in the lymph nodes of the neck and head due to the inflammatory process, which do not return to their usual form even after two months, require ultrasound examination.

Is it possible to warm the lymph nodes in the neck

Experiencing discomfort, many people wonder if it is possible to warm the lymph nodes in the neck?

It is important to remember that heating is contraindicated for inflammation, although there are some nuances regarding the nodes.

Warming up the lymph node, blood flow is provoked, and with it the lymph. It would seem that in this case it can more actively fight bacteria, but, on the contrary, the infection actually spreads.

Only a doctor can see the need for warming up. At a certain stage, this has an immunomodulatory effect.

There are several ways to warm up:

• a cloth soaked in an alcohol solution;
• iodine cells;
• salt in a bag.

Warming ointments or steam treatments are not effective. It is impossible to make a decision regarding warming up on your own.

How to treat swollen lymph nodes in the neck at home

Lymphadenitis in the absence of the possibility of a visit to the doctor invariably raises the question of how to treat swollen lymph nodes at home. The general condition can be improved by decoctions and tinctures, rinses, ointments and compresses.

It is important to make sure before use that an allergic reaction can be avoided. It is enough to take only part of the tincture and wait, or apply quite a bit of ointment.

As for any inflammation, it is important to drink plenty of fluids when the lymph nodes are enlarged, it is better to use herbal teas or herbal decoctions.

A recipe is considered effective for the treatment of lymph nodes, according to which yarrow, hop cones and oregano should be mixed in a 1: 1 ratio. To this collection add 20 g of horsetail and pour 200 g of boiled water. Leave in a water bath for 10 minutes, and with the lid closed, simmer for the same amount. Strain the broth and take in three divided doses half an hour before meals.

For home treatment, you can use the following recipes:

• Tinctures can be purchased ready-made in a pharmacy. This is ginseng, echinacea or propolis. They have one regimen - three times 12 drops with 100 ml of water.
• If the lymph nodes are enlarged due to infections in the oral cavity, it is better to resort to rinsing.
• It is necessary to brew 1:1 chamomile, mint and calendula with 200 g of water. Rinse your mouth twice a day after brushing your teeth. A rinse solution of 3 g of soda per 200 g of warm water, or 5 grams of aloe juice per 180 g of warm water, is considered very effective.
• As compresses, it is better to use medicinal herbs. You can carefully grind mint and dandelion stems to a mushy state. Apply to a clean cloth and apply to the affected area.
• Ointments are better to use anti-inflammatory. Vishnevsky ointment or ichthyol ointment will help not only remove inflammation, but also reduce pain.

It is important to remember that it is strictly not allowed to smear the lymph nodes with hot ointments.

Why self-medication is dangerous

The danger of self-treatment of lymphadenitis is due to the fact that there are many reasons for its occurrence, and therefore only a qualified specialist, by prescribing the correct diagnosis, will be able to determine the etiology of the increase and prescribe the most correct solution.

Self-made attempts at treatment can lead to irreversible consequences.

Consequences of untreated lymph nodes

Untreated lymphadenitis can turn into purulent and cause a general infection of the blood.

Timely access to doctors will help to identify cancer or AIDS at an early stage. Professional help to fix problems with knots will help not only prolong life, but also save it.

Prevention of lymphadenitis

To prevent inflammation of the lymph nodes, it is necessary to treat any infection in a timely manner. Any mechanical damage to the skin must be treated with antiseptic preparations to avoid infection entering the body.

It is very important, especially for children, to carefully monitor the oral cavity., brush your teeth correctly and often, treat caries in time, which is what provokes the growth of lymph nodes. It is important to adhere to such measures and lifestyle so that immunity is strengthened.

Useful video on the topic

Lymph nodes in the neck: how to treat inflammation of the lymph nodes. Watch a helpful video:

Lymph and the causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes: the opinion of a doctor. Watch an interesting video:

Since swollen lymph nodes can be caused by many factors, it is important to contact doctors in a timely manner if changes are detected and carefully follow all recommendations.

Such a seemingly simple symptom as swollen lymph nodes (LNs) may be a sign of completely non-banal diseases. Some of them are simply unpleasant, while others can lead to serious complications and even a tragic outcome. There are not very many diseases leading to the appearance of this symptom, but they all require thoughtful diagnosis and careful, sometimes very long treatment.

What are lymph nodes for?

Lymph nodes are small collections of lymphatic tissue scattered throughout the body. Their main function is to filter the lymph and a kind of "storage" of elements of the immune system that attack foreign substances, microorganisms and cancer cells that enter the lymph. The nodes can be compared to military bases, where in peacetime troops are stationed, ready to immediately act to fight the "enemy" - the causative agent of any disease.

Where are the lymph nodes located

Lymph nodes are a kind of collectors that collect lymph from certain areas of the body. This fluid flows to them through a network of vessels. There are superficial lymph nodes and visceral, located in the cavities of the human body. Without the use of instrumental visualization methods, it is impossible to detect an increase in the latter.

Among the superficial lymph nodes, depending on the location, the following localizations are distinguished:

• popliteal, located on the back of the knee joints;
• superficial and deep inguinal, localized in the inguinal folds;
• occipital - in the area of ​​​​the transition of the neck into the skull;
• behind the ear and parotid, located in front and behind the auricle;
• submandibular, lying approximately in the middle of the branches of the lower jaw;
• chin, located a few centimeters behind the chin;
• a network of cervical LUs densely scattered along the anterior and lateral surfaces of the neck;
• elbow - on the front surface of the joint of the same name;
• axillary, one group of which is adjacent to the inner surface of the pectoral muscles, and the other is located in the thickness of the fiber of the axillary region.

Thus, there are quite a lot of places where an increase in lymph nodes can be detected and an attentive doctor will definitely feel them in order to obtain additional information about a possible disease.

Causes of swollen lymph nodes

There are no natural reasons for the increase in LU. If they become larger, then there must be some kind of pathology in the body. The appearance of this symptom indicates the occurrence of:

With different diseases, the lymph nodes increase in different ways. In addition to size, indicators such as:

• surface structure, which may remain smooth or become bumpy;
• mobility - in some diseases, the lymph nodes become soldered to each other or to surrounding tissues;
• consistency - dense, soft;
• the condition of the skin above them - with inflammation of the LU, the skin can become swollen, redden.

And now it makes sense to consider an increase in lymph nodes in relation to the diseases that most often cause this symptom.

Lymphadenitis

This disease is characterized by the most striking symptoms from the LU, which at the same time significantly increase in size, become sharply painful, immobile. The skin over them turns red, there is local swelling. As the disease progresses, the temperature rises more and more, chills appear, intoxication phenomena increase.

Most often, the occurrence of lymphadenitis is preceded by any purulent disease of the corresponding area:

• carbuncle;
• phlegmon;
• felon;
• abscess;
• infected wound;
• erysipelas, etc.

Microbes from the focus of infection through the lymphatic vessels enter the lymph node, provoking an inflammatory reaction in it, first catarrhal (without pus), and then purulent. The extreme degree of development of lymphadenitis is adenophlegmon - in fact, a complication of this disease. In this case, pus impregnates the surrounding LU fatty tissue.

Other complications of purulent lymphadenitis are purulent thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, sepsis.

A pediatrician tells about lymphadenitis in children:

Treatment of lymphadenitis

With catarrhal lymphadenitis, the underlying purulent disease is primarily treated. With timely intervention, there is a high chance of subsiding an acute process in the lymph node.

With the development of purulent lymphadenitis or adenophlegmon, surgical intervention is required - opening the abscess, cleaning it using antiseptics and antimicrobial agents, draining the abscess cavity.

Respiratory diseases

This group of diseases is the most common cause of enlarged lymph nodes. Most clearly, this symptom is manifested in various forms of tonsillitis (tonsillitis). Along with an increase in the LU, there is a high fever during swallowing, severe weakness and malaise.

Somewhat less often, lymph nodes increase in size with inflammation of the pharynx - pharyngitis. The symptomatology of this disease is similar to the clinical picture of tonsillitis, although it is inferior to it in the brightness of manifestations.

With respiratory infections, the lymph nodes become dense to the touch, moderately painful, their mobility during palpation is preserved.

Treatment of respiratory infections

Treatment tactics depend on the type of pathogen that caused the disease. So, with a bacterial nature of the pathology, broad-spectrum antibiotics are used, with a viral one - symptomatic therapy, with a fungal one - specific antimicrobial agents. In parallel, general strengthening measures are carried out with the simultaneous use of immunomodulators.

Specific infections

Most often, an increase in lymph nodes is accompanied by such specific infections as tuberculosis and syphilis.

Tuberculous lesion

In pulmonary tuberculosis, the intrathoracic lymph nodes are first affected. It is impossible to detect their increase without special research methods. If untreated, the tuberculous process can spread throughout the body, affecting superficial LUs:

• submandibular;
• cervical;
• axillary;
• inguinal;
• elbow.

At the initial stage, they increase and moderate soreness. As the inflammatory process flares up, the lymph nodes become soldered to each other and to the tissues surrounding them, turning into a dense conglomerate, which then suppurates, forming a long-term non-healing fistula.

Treatment

Since the increase in LU here is caused by the main disease - tuberculosis, then it is she who is being treated. Special anti-tuberculosis drugs are used according to special regimens.

Syphilis

In the case of syphilis, the nodes do not grow in size until a few days after the onset of primary syphilis, known as chancre. Due to the fact that the primary place of occurrence of the chancre is the genitals, the inguinal nodes most often increase.

However, with chancramygdalitis (syphilitic tonsillitis), for example, a symptom may appear from the submandibular or submental nodes.

Important: With syphilis, the lymph nodes can reach the size of a nut, while maintaining their consistency, remaining painless and not soldered to the tissues. Often, at the same time, lymphangitis occurs - inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, which are palpable in the form of a cord, sometimes with thickenings along its length.

Treatment

Syphilis at any stage responds well to antibiotic therapy. Mostly penicillin preparations are used. With the development of complications, the treatment of infection can be significantly delayed.

Rubella

With rubella, this symptom appears one of the first, several hours ahead of the onset of a rash. Most often, the occipital, cervical, parotid nodes increase, becoming painful, however, without soldering with the surrounding tissues.

A rash in uncomplicated rubella may remain the only striking symptom, although along with it there are sometimes fever (moderate) and a runny nose.

Treatment

The patient with rubella is isolated and symptomatic treatment is prescribed if necessary. Serious measures are carried out only with the development of complications. For example, for joint damage, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, and for encephalitis, corticosteroids, diuretics, anticonvulsants, etc. It should be noted that rubella is a relatively benign infection and in most cases goes away without treatment at all.

HIV infection

With this most dangerous disease, lymph nodes of all localizations can increase. Often, it is this symptom that makes the doctor suspect an HIV infection, which for a long time may not manifest itself in anything else.

With the transition of the disease to the stage of AIDS, the increase in the LU becomes constant, their inflammation joins.

Treatment

It is well known that there are no methods that can finally cure an HIV-infected person. Doctors direct all their efforts to suppress the activity of the virus, for which special antiretroviral drugs are used. In parallel with this, concomitant infections are treated, the development of which most often causes the death of people with AIDS.

Lymph nodes in autoimmune diseases

The autoimmune process is a group of diseases in which the immune system ceases to consider cells of various organs as “its own”. Taking them for a foreign substance, the body activates defense mechanisms in order to destroy the "aggressor". One of the manifestations of this activity is the increase in regional LU.

The autoimmune process can affect almost any organ, from the joints to the endocrine glands and even the nervous system. Such diseases are characterized by a long, chronic course and are quite difficult to treat, leading the patient to disability, and sometimes to death.

Treatment

In the treatment of autoimmune diseases, drugs are used that suppress the excessive activity of the immune system - immunosuppressants and agents that block certain chemical reactions in the cells of the lymphocytic system.

Enlargement of lymph nodes in oncological pathologies

Oncologists use this symptom as one of the diagnostic criteria for the tumor process. LU increase only in malignant tumors in the case when cancer cells are separated from the site of the primary focus and enter the node with the lymph flow. Here they are "attacked" by the body's defenses, seeking to prevent the process from "breaking out into the expanses" of the body. The appearance of this symptom is an unfavorable sign, indicating the spread of the tumor process.

However, there are also malignant oncological diseases that directly affect the lymphatic system itself:

• Hodgkin's lymphoma, otherwise called lymphogranulomatosis;
• non-Hodgkin's lymphomas - a group of over 80 types of tumors originating from the lymphatic tissue and having great differences both in the course of the disease, and in its causes and mechanisms of development.

Treatment

In the fight against oncological pathology, several methods are used at once:

1. cytostatic chemotherapy with drugs that stop tumor growth;
2. irradiation of lymph nodes with a stream of ionizing radiation:
   • X-rays;
   • gamma and beta radiation;
   • neutron beams;
   • flow of elementary particles;
3. immunosuppressive therapy with powerful hormonal agents.

Special schemes for the use of complexes of various types of treatment have been developed to suppress the tumor process and prolong the life of the patient.

Note: it must be remembered that swollen lymph nodes are only a symptom of various diseases. Therefore, self-medication, and even more so using folk methods, instead of going to the doctor, is unacceptable. Delay in the diagnosis and treatment of certain diseases can cost the patient's life.

You can get more information about the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes by reviewing this review:

Volkov Gennady Gennadievich, medical observer, emergency doctor.