Swollen Glands in Neck

Lymph nodes are bean-shaped or round, small groups of cells which are covered by connective tissue to make a capsule. These cells are a mixture of lymphocytes – producers of protein particles which entrap intruders for instance viruses – as well as macrophages, that break down the captured material. These two filter the lymphatic system fluid that flows through the body as well as protecting an individual by destroying intruders.

Causes

The most common cause for swollen glands in the neck is some infection, normally an infection by a virus, for example, the common cold. But, there are additional kinds of infections such as bacterial as well as parasitic and other probable reasons for swollen glands. They consist of:

Infections – Common

• Ear infections
• Strep throat
• Mononucleosis
• Measles
• Infected or abscessed tooth
• HIV – the virus which causes AIDS
• Wound infections such as cellulitis or erysipelas

Infections – Uncommon

• Tuberculosis
• Cat scratch fever
• Toxoplasmosis

Immune system disorders

• Lupus
• HIV
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Cancers

• Lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Other cancers which have metastasized

Complications

If the reason for swollen neck lymph nodes is an infection and is not treated, these are the complications that could occur:

Formation of Abscess

Abscesses are a collection localized of pus triggered by some sort of infection. This pus contains white cells, tissue that is dead, fluid as well as bacteria or other intruders. The abscess requires antibiotic treatment and drainage. An abscess can cause destruction if it comprises an organ that is vital.

Infection of the blood system or bacteremia

Bacterial infections can occur in any place in the body and cause sepsis, an overpowering infection of the blood system. Sepsis can cause failure to organs and then even death. Management involves hospitalization as well as IV antibiotics.

Treatment

To diagnose the cause of the swollen lymph nodes in the neck, the physician may need:

Complete medical history

Physical exam

The physician will need to check the nodes that are close to the surface for tenderness, size, texture as well as warmth. Other symptoms and signs will give the doctor clues as to help diagnose the underlying cause. Some of them include:

Blood tests

Certain blood tests can be done to exclude or confirm underlying conditions. This will most likely include total blood count which helps to assess the individual’s complete health and can distinguish a variety of illnesses, for instance, mononucleosis as well as leukemia.

Studies by Imaging

X-ray of the chest or CT scan can help to decide on possible causes of infection or discover any tumors.

Lymphatic node biopsy

If a diagnosis cannot be decided on, the physician can take out a section of the lymphatic node for examination under the microscope.

Swollen lymphatic nodes in the neck triggered by a virus can go back to normal as soon as the viral contagion gets better. Antibiotics cannot treat viral infections. Treatment for other sources is determined by the cause which could be:

Infection

The conventional management for swollen lymph nodes that are triggered with a bacterial contagion is antibiotics. Fever reducers, as well as pain relievers over-the-counter, include aspirin, ibuprofen, for instance, Advil, Motrin and acetaminophen, such as Tylenol. Aspirin, as well as ibuprofen, have properties for anti-inflammation that can reduce various swelling.

It is advised not to give children aspirin due to its connection to Reye’s syndrome. This is a rare and very serious disease that can disturb teenagers and children recovering from any infections that are viral.

Disorders of Immunity

If the swollen neck glands are caused by situations such as lupus, HIV or rheumatoid arthritis, management is focused on the underlying disorder.

Cancer

Swollen neck glands triggered by cancer need the tumor to be treated. Depend on the kind of cancer; therapy usually involves surgery, chemotherapy or radiation.

Swollen Glands in Neck Pictures