The superficial cervical lymph node is enlarged. The danger of untreated lymph nodes. Why self-medication is dangerous

Inflammation lymph nodes in medical science it is called lymphadenitis. Usually he is not independent disease, but represents (more often – organs located in close proximity to the lymph node). In some cases, lymphadenitis occurs primarily: the infectious agent penetrates the lymphatic network through mechanically damaged skin or mucous membrane. Failure to provide medical care for this disease can lead to serious infectious complications– adenophlegmon or sepsis. To prevent these life-threatening conditions, it is necessary to consult a specialist when the first signs of inflammation of the lymph nodes appear.

What are lymph nodes and why are they needed? Terminology

Peripheral lymph nodes (lymph nodes, LNs) are part of immune system person. There are several groups of lymph nodes in the neck area:

• mental lymph nodes;
• submandibular lymph nodes;
• anterior cervical lymph nodes;
• posterior cervical lymph nodes;
• posterior and anterior ear lymph nodes;
• occipital lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes of some groups are palpable even in healthy person. In infants under 1 year of age, posterior cervical, occipital, axillary and inguinal lymph nodes are identified. Moreover, the occipitals are palpated until a maximum of three years of age; in older children they cannot be determined. Submandibular lymph nodes, on the contrary, can be identified throughout a person’s life. Detection of supraclavicular, femoral and popliteal lymph nodes during examination is considered a sign of pathology.

The functions of the lymph nodes are:

• formation of immune cells – immunopoietic;
• formation of blood cells - lymphocytes - hematopoietic;
• participation in biochemical processes - metabolic;
• stimulation of cell proliferation in some organs – stimulating;
• preventing the penetration of foreign substances into the body - barrier.

Normally, peripheral lymph nodes, including cervical ones, are defined as single round formations with a diameter of 3 to 8 mm (submandibular - up to 1 cm, inguinal - up to 1.5 cm), soft consistency, mobile, not fused with each other and surrounding tissues, painless.

Enlarged lymph nodes over specified sizes indicates some pathological process in the body. Acute or chronic inflammation of these organs is called lymphadenitis (acute or chronic, respectively). Enlarged lymph nodes unknown etiology, which is asymptomatic, is called lymphadenopathy. The last term is especially often used by pediatricians at the preliminary diagnosis stage.

The program “Live Healthy!” talks about the role of lymph nodes in our body:

Why does cervical lymphadenitis occur and how does it develop?

Inflammation of the lymph nodes can be caused by nonspecific or specific infectious agents. Among the causative agents of nonspecific infection, the leading etiological role belongs to staphylo- and streptococci, penetrating into the lymph nodes from the primary source of infection through the blood or lymph flow or through contact.

The primary source of infection in this case may be erysipelas, osteomyelitis, caries, carbuncles, and purulent wounds in the head and neck area.

Specific cervical lymphadenitis is most often caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Treponema pallidum (the causative agent of syphilis).

Often, inflammation of the lymph nodes is complicated by acute and chronic infectious diseases of the ear, nose and throat - sinusitis, ; and in children, in addition, childhood infections - mumps, rubella, scarlet fever, diphtheria.

As mentioned above, the causative agent of the disease can enter the lymph node in three ways:

• hematogenous;
• lymphogenous;
• contact

Penetrating into an organ, the infectious agent begins to actively multiply in it, releasing toxins and metabolic products. This is accompanied by the appearance of signs of local inflammation - the lymph node increases in size, its tissues produce inflammatory fluid, and the patient begins to experience pain. If there is no treatment at this stage of the disease, the process progresses - pus forms in the thickness of the lymph node, which sooner or later melts the organ tissue and forms either, or enters the tissue and forms paralymphadenitis and adenophlegmon. When the pathogen damages blood vessels and enters the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body, sepsis can develop.

Classification of cervical lymphadenitis

Depending on the etiological factor lymphadenitis can be nonspecific (caused by pyogenic flora) and specific (arising against the background of syphilis, anthrax and other infections).

According to the nature of the course, it can be acute or chronic.

Depending on the characteristics of morphological changes in the lymph node, the following forms of lymphadenitis are distinguished:

• catarrhal;
• hyperplastic;
• purulent;
• fibrinous;
• ichorous;
• necrotic;
• hemorrhagic.

Signs of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes, possible complications

Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes is often a unilateral process, but in some cases the lymph nodes are affected simultaneously on both sides.

In acute lymphadenitis caused by a nonspecific infection, the first signs of the disease are enlarged lymph nodes and their slight soreness. In adults, signs of general intoxication at this stage of the disease are practically or completely absent; in patients childhood possible increase in body temperature to subfebrile levels, loss of appetite, worsening sleep, feeling of general malaise.

If the pathological process enters the purulent stage, the node becomes denser, its pain when touched increases sharply, and symptoms of intoxication appear and gradually increase - headache, weakness, increased body temperature, loss of appetite. During movement, pain in the area of ​​inflammation sharply intensifies, so the patient, as a rule, spares it, limiting movements. Swelling and redness are observed in the area of ​​the affected lymph node.

If at this stage pathological process the patient is not provided with medical care, the tissues of the lymph node are destroyed and an abscess is formed, which subsequently breaks through and pus comes out into the surrounding tissues, forming adenophlegmon. Adenophlegmon is defined as a dense infiltrate, sharply painful on palpation, in which there are areas of softening (accumulation of direct purulent masses).

When palpating the lymph node, a crunching sound may be detected, indicating putrefactive processes in the affected area.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes occurs, as a rule, with the symptoms of lymphangitis - inflammation of the lymphatic vessels adjacent to it, which are defined as painful on palpation, dense cords with symptoms of edema and hyperemia (redness) above them.

Chronic nonspecific lymphadenitis occurs without pronounced symptoms: there are no signs of intoxication, locally enlarged, dense, not fused to each other and to the surrounding tissues, practically painless lymph nodes are detected. During a long-term process, the lymphoid tissue of the nodules is replaced by connective tissue, as a result of which the lymph node shrinks and lymph circulation in the affected area is disrupted - swelling appears, lymph stagnates in the vessels, and elephantiasis develops.

Specific lymphadenitis has its own clinical characteristics depending on the pathogen that caused it. Thus, with lymphadenitis of tuberculous etiology, the affected nodes often become necrotic, which is accompanied by phenomena of pronounced intoxication - an increase in temperature to febrile levels, sudden general weakness, chills, lack of appetite. With syphilis, as a rule, the lymph nodes are affected only on one side - they are slightly increased in size, not fused to each other and surrounding tissues, and are located in a chain. Purulent lymphadenitis is not typical for syphilis.

With absence adequate treatment may arise the following complications cervical lymphadenitis:

• lymphatic fistulas;
• septicopyemia;
• sepsis.

Diagnosis of cervical lymphadenitis

Diagnosis of acute nonspecific cervical lymphadenitis, as a rule, does not cause difficulties for a specialist. The diagnosis is based on complaints, the history of the disease and the patient’s life, the totality of clinical signs of the disease, the results of examination and palpation of the affected area. To clarify the diagnosis, a detailed blood test (to detect signs of inflammation) and an ultrasound of the affected lymph node (to determine its structure) are prescribed. In some cases of acute, as well as for the diagnosis of chronic lymphadenitis, it is necessary to perform a puncture biopsy of the lymph node - puncture it with a special needle, during which the affected cells are collected for examination. Instead of a biopsy, it is possible to perform an operation to excise the lymph node followed by histological examination operating material. Also, according to indications, ultrasound of the lymphatic vessels, lymphography with contrast, lymphoscintigraphy, magnetic resonance and CT scan.

Specific lymphadenitis is diagnosed using special methods. So, in the punctate from the lymph node of a patient with syphilis, pale treponema will be found. Tuberculous lymphadenitis is confirmed by the results tuberculin tests Mantoux or Pirquet, as well as the detection of Pirogov-Langhans giant cells in the punctate (material taken during a puncture biopsy). On radiographs of the soft tissues of the neck, dense shadows - calcifications - will attract attention; on a radiograph of the lungs - foci of tuberculosis in them.

Treatment of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes

Catarrhal and hyperplastic forms of lymphadenitis are treated conservatively in an outpatient setting. The emphasis is on the treatment of the underlying disease, the complication of which is lymphadenitis.

• rest the affected area;
• systemic antibiotic therapy, preferably taking into account the sensitivity of the pathogen to drugs, or antibiotics wide range actions – groups of protected aminopenicillins, cephalosporins of I–III generations;
• anti-inflammatory drugs – nimesulide, diclofenac, etc.;
• absorbable drugs – Serta;
• multivitamins – Duovit, Vitrum, Multitabs;
• immunomodulators – preparations based on Echinacea (Immunal, Echinacea compositum, etc.);
• locally - compresses with dimexide and an anti-inflammatory drug (the ratio of dimexide and water in the compress is 1:4; a high concentration of the drug is unacceptable - it will cause a burn);
• UHF therapy.

If lymphadenitis has already developed to the purulent stage, then conservative treatment will not be possible. In this case, it is necessary to open the node, abscess or adenophlegmon, treat wound surface antiseptic solution, drain and treat further as a purulent wound. In this case, an antibiotic is prescribed systemically (again, taking into account the sensitivity of microorganisms to it) and infusions of solutions (reosorbilact, saline, Trisol) for the purpose of detoxification.

The essence of the treatment of chronic nonspecific cervical lymphadenitis is the active treatment of the underlying chronic disease of the ear, throat or nose, which causes inflammation in the lymph nodes, as well as correction of the immune system.

Treatment of specific lymphadenitis is carried out according to protocols for the treatment of the primary process - tuberculosis, syphilis, etc.

Prevention of cervical lymphadenitis

Since lymphadenitis is a polyetiological disease, it specific prevention does not exist. To prevent the occurrence of the disease, it is necessary to maintain the health of the immune system, promptly treat acute infectious diseases (otitis, tonsillitis, caries) and prevent their chronicity. The occurrence of microtraumas and wound infections should also be prevented.

Forecast

Catarrhal and hyperplastic acute lymphadenitis, provided that it is adequately treated and the disease that provoked it, ends with complete recovery of the patient.

The prognosis of chronic lymphadenitis is less favorable - in most cases it ends with the replacement of the lymph node with connective tissue with complete disruption of its function.

The prognosis for purulent forms of lymphadenitis depends on how far the process has gone and how timely and adequate its treatment was. In case of development purulent complications– septicopyemia, sepsis – even a fatal outcome of the disease is possible.

Almaty TV channel, video about lymphadenitis:

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Pediatrician E. O. Komarovsky talks about enlarged lymph nodes in children:

IN Each person's body has about 1,000 lymph nodes, which are located in the neck, in the folds of the arms and legs, in the chest cavity, under the jaw and in the abdominal cavity.

The normal size of a lymph node is 5 to 10 mm.

Immune cells are formed in the lymph nodes. Since the nodes filter the body from harmful compounds, foreign proteins, pathogens and bad cells, immune cells destroy these harmful microorganisms.

There are parietal and peripheral lymph nodes. Parietal ones are located near human organs on the walls of cavities. Peripheral nodes are located on the back of the head, neck, elbow flexion, under the knees, in the groin area and armpits. They are located in groups - from 12 to 45.

Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck occurs when attacks harmful substances are strong, a large load of destruction is placed on the node pathogens. Lymph may be infected or the tissues through which it flows to cleanse the body may become inflamed.

Over time, when the body copes with the infection, the lymph nodes become the same in size, but still denser.

It is almost impossible to palpate the lymph nodes in young children, since they have not yet been seriously ill. If the lymph nodes in a child’s neck are enlarged, this most often indicates a cold.

In adults, the lymph nodes in the neck and under the jaw can be easily felt. The situation is worse with abdominal lymph nodes, which cannot be palpated. If such nodes become inflamed, doctors can often confuse the diagnosis with appendicitis or other inflammation.

Painless, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are called lymphadenopathy. If such a phenomenon is observed, we can conclude that there is a disease in the nearby tissues.

If an enlarged lymph node hurts, this is a sign of an inflammatory process in the node itself. This phenomenon is called lymphadenitis. The lymph node cannot cope with filtering lymph, or there are too many microbes. This can also happen when the immune system is weakened and unable to cope with the disease. As a result, the lymph node enlarges.

In such cases, suppuration may form between the tissues, which only surgeons can remove. If the lymph nodes are very dense and become one immobile group, the doctor can diagnose a malignant tumor.

Cancer cells

Each person produces up to one hundred thousand per day. cancer cells. These are the cells that change their properties. These cells travel throughout the body, and the lymph nodes neutralize these disease-causing cells. In those people who are predisposed to cancer due to heredity, the lymph nodes do their job worse. They are less able to distinguish harmful cells and may not detect them in tissues. Therefore, cancer cells begin to multiply.

Reduced immunity

When lymph nodes in the neck become enlarged in children or adults due to colds, this is called local lymphadenopathy. It arises due to reduced immunity when it is difficult for the body to cope with viruses and infections.

There is also a generalized enlargement of lymph nodes. Nodes appear everywhere, become inflamed and swollen. This happens with AIDS. The immune system fights the virus, but eventually it weakens, and the human body cannot cope with new tumors and infections. Lymph nodes stop performing their function.

However, you should not immediately panic; most often, an enlarged lymph node is simply a sign that the immune system is doing its protective work.

Still, if the lymph nodes are inflamed, it is better to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the enlarged nodes. More often swollen lymph nodes do not require their own treatment. You just need to cure a sore tooth or throat. Over the course of a person’s entire life, lymph nodes often enlarge as the immune system fights painful microorganisms, but this enlargement does not bring anything dangerous.

• Rhinitis;
• Sore throat, pneumonia;
• Otitis;
• Caries, gumboil;
• Cat and rat scratches, boils;
• Thyroid gland dysfunction;
• Metabolic disease;
• Frequent intake of alcoholic beverages;
• Allergic reactions;
• Immunodeficiency in humans;
• Fungal diseases;
• Venereal diseases;
• Oncology, syphilis, tuberculosis;
• HIV infection

Lymphadenitis in the neck is dangerous only because it is located close to the brain. And if the lymph node cannot cope with the infection, then it can get there too.

If the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, the causes can be determined by the disease:

• Enlarged retropharyngeal lymph nodes indicate that an infection has entered the nasopharynx;
• Submandibular - increase after infection from the face and oral cavity;
• Superficial lymph nodes enlarge due to scratches, boils, and skin damage.

If there is bilateral enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, this indicates more serious diseases.

If a child has an enlarged lymph node on one side of the neck, this can lead to torticollis.

If a person has an enlarged lymph node in the neck, he feels discomfort when turning his head, and sudden or nagging pain. With such discomfort, a person himself can feel the enlarged lymph nodes, which look like small bumps. When you click on them, painful sensations.

With enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, complications with swallowing begin. It is painful for the patient to eat and drink. There is also pain when speaking.

If the immune system does not cope with the infection, then pus may collect in the enlarged lymph nodes, and intoxication of the body will begin. Symptoms such as headache, lack of appetite, elevated temperature, weakness. There is no desire to work and have fun.

If you do not contact a specialist in time, purulent decomposition of the lymph node tissue will begin. The neck in the area of ​​the lymph nodes becomes hot, swelling appears, which can spread to the entire neck.

Lymphadenitis and its treatment

If your lymph nodes are enlarged, you should immediately consult a doctor to avoid serious consequences.

Specialists conduct a full examination and determine the cause of enlarged cervical lymph nodes.

A blood test can detect an inflammatory process in the human body. Based on the quantitative characteristics, a specialist can draw a conclusion about the severity of the disease and prescribe appropriate treatment. From which we can conclude that the sooner the patient consults a doctor, the less advanced the disease will be detected and the treatment process will not be difficult.

Sometimes it is necessary to undergo a biopsy to determine the exact source of the disease. The doctor prescribes targeted therapy, which also relieves pain and makes the patient feel better.

Also appointed special drugs, which improve the functioning of the immune system and relieve the inflammatory process (Prednisolone, Medrol). Antibiotics may be prescribed. It is recommended to take multivitamins and vitamin C, which also help strengthen the immune system.

Camphor oil compresses, rubbing ichthyol ointment can also be used to treat enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

At purulent tumors you have to carry out operations and cut them out.

The treatment of enlarged lymph nodes is carried out by specialists such as an infectious disease specialist, an oncologist and a surgeon.

If you delay the disease process and do not consult a doctor, a purulent tumor in the neck can reach the brain and develop into meningitis. In addition, an advanced disease can lead to blood poisoning, and then the entire infection will be spread throughout the body. In this case, the patient will be in mortal danger.

Lymph nodes are found throughout the body and contain lymph fluid that protects and filters the human body from bacteria and cancer cells. They are an integral part of the immune system.

If cervical lymph node enlarged, this can lead to swelling of the tonsils, parotid glands, lacrimal glands, thyroid gland and salivary glands.

Enlarged lymph nodes at the back of the neck

Enlarged lymph nodes on the back of the neck (photo) are a sign of an inflammatory process in the human body.

Such inflammation may indicate that a person is sick with tuberculosis, tonsillitis, acute pharyngitis, sore throat or colds. This phenomenon may also indicate the presence of rubella, a virus, or toxoplasmosis.

Symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes in the back of the neck

• Painful or painless soft swellings are felt on the neck;
• The cancer may also have affected the lymph nodes in the neck;
• A cold is the most common symptom of this phenomenon;
• Redness on the neck.

Highly qualified specialists can determine the cause of enlarged lymph nodes by their appearance, as well as by touching the inflammation.

If the lymph node enlarges and then quickly disappears (shrinks), we can conclude that microbes have entered the wound and reached the lymph nodes in the neck.

If a person has chronic enlargement of the lymph nodes, then pain during their inflammation may be absent. But when frequent inflammations this can cause degeneration of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes.

With painless inflammation, diagnosis is poorer, and only a doctor can identify the cause of the disease.

Enlarged axillary nodes are very common. Why does this happen and what diseases do such inflammations indicate?

Axillary lymph nodes are peripheral nodes. Most often they react to diseases upper limbs, breast, shoulder, neck, chest.

Lymphocytes arrive from the lymph node to the site of inflammation, which, thanks to the response of the immune system, eliminate foreign proteins.

If axillary lymph node increased, the reasons for this are:

• Inflammation sweat glands, their blockage;
• Inflammation of hair follicles;
• Boils, wounds on the arms or chest area;

You should adhere to all sanitary and hygienic rules and use deodorant correctly. For people prone to excessive sweating, enlarged axillary lymph nodes are not uncommon.

Often inflammation in the armpits occurs in people suffering from diabetes.

During lactation and pregnancy, a slight enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes may also appear. But it is not dangerous and does not require treatment. Also, the lymph nodes in the armpits become enlarged with mastitis in women.

Enlarged lymph nodes in children can be accompanied by diseases such as measles, mononucleosis, and chickenpox. Having cured the underlying disease, the lymph nodes will return to their previous shape.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes can be caused by diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, neurodermatitis and other skin diseases.

Lymph nodes in the armpits enlarge with oncological diseases, AIDS, breast cancer, tuberculosis, syphilis, tularemia, plague, brucellosis, lymphogranulomatosis.

Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits are often a sign serious illnesses than inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck.

Types of lymphadenopathy

• Inflammatory;
• Non-inflammatory (no pain)

Treatment for these types is different. Inflammatory types lymph nodes are treated with antibiotics.

If treatment for an enlarged lymph node does not help within three weeks, your doctor may prescribe a puncture or biopsy.

It must be remembered that self-treatment of an armpit tumor at home is unacceptable. You should definitely consult a doctor as soon as possible. For oncological diseases, breast cancer, purulent tumors, surgical intervention is necessary.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to avoid enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, since a person cannot be insured against colds, viruses and infections. Bacteria surround us everywhere, but for some people the immune system is stronger and copes with filtering out harmful microorganisms, while for others a viral infection can develop into a serious illness.

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

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

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 in the neck provides protection to the brain and the neck itself from infections and tumors.

Nodes on the neck are divided into the following types:

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

Where are the lymph nodes located in in good condition(painless), cannot be seen or felt.

An exception is the anterior cervical superficial nodes. They have a pale pink color, round in shape, less often ribbon-shaped. The lymph nodes are quite soft and mobile to the touch. When touching them when they are in a normal state, a person does not feel pain.

Role of lymph nodes

A lymph node is a peripheral organ of part of the vascular system that acts as a natural filter. Connective tissue (lymph) flows through the lymph node, entering it from various parts of the body.

Lymph delivers elements foreign to the body to the lymph node. The node produces lymphocytes (protective cells) that fight substances harmful to the body.

Thus, lymph nodes are constituent elements of the lymphatic system, responsible for the production of immune cells, which are a barrier to the spread of not only infections, but also cancer cells.

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Normal sizes for adults

The size of a lymph node in an adult’s neck in a normal state (without pathological enlargement) reaches from 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

Often the size also depends on physiological characteristics. So, if in one person the normal size of a lymph node is considered to be up to 5 mm, then in another it is up to 1 cm.

Why do lymph nodes in the neck enlarge in an adult?

There are many reasons for enlargement (inflammation) of lymph nodes in the neck in adults. All of them symbolize the presence of pathologies in the body.

A characteristic feature of the lymph nodes is that the group of nodes that is closest to the site of formation (penetration into the body) of the infection becomes inflamed.

Less commonly, the cause of inflammation is another pathology in the body, for example, a tumor.

The most common reasons include:

• infectious diseases - ARVI, influenza, smallpox, tuberculosis and others;
• inflammations and infections of the oral cavity, such as stomatitis, caries, sore throat, gingivitis, pulpitis and others;
• disturbances in the functioning of the immune system;
• freezing;
• deficit useful vitamins and minerals;
• malignant degeneration of cells of the lymphatic system (tumor);
• mechanical damage to lymph nodes, for example, scratches and others;
• pathologies in the thyroid gland;
• allergies, complications after vaccination;
• alcohol and drug addiction.

It is important to know, that, in addition, the human immune system reacts quite strongly to emotional stress. Due to various stresses, the functioning of the lymphatic system is weakened, which can also cause enlargement of nodes.

At the same time, inflammation of certain groups of lymph nodes also symbolizes what disease caused this pathology. For example, the submandibular nodes become inflamed in diseases of the tongue, lips and salivary glands.

But the posterior cervical lymph nodes indicate inflammation of the skin of the head, chest and upper shoulder girdle.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck

It is quite difficult not to notice that the lymph nodes in the neck area have become enlarged (inflamed). This is an open part of the body that is always in sight. In addition, both children and adults unconsciously touch their neck several times a day, which is why any changes in its area immediately become noticeable.

The most common symptoms of inflammation include the following:

• With inflammation, bulges form on the neck, often reaching a diameter of 2.5 to 5 cm, but may differ from the indicated sizes.

It depends on the individual characteristics of the person, the disease that provoked the inflammation and many other factors.

• Second a clear sign, this is pain during palpation of the place where the inflamed lymph node is located.
• To the touch, the place where the lymph node is inflamed becomes harder. If the lump is hard, this may indicate a blood disease and oncology.

• The person begins to experience discomfort when swallowing or talking.
• Weakness and headache appear, the temperature rises.
• There is redness in the area of ​​the bulge and swelling around the lymph node.
• A fistula may form in the neck, releasing pus or dead soft tissue.

Please note that if the lymph nodes become inflamed due to an infectious disease, then the signs of this disease first appear, and then the nodes become enlarged.

And if no other symptoms of disease appear before the onset of inflammation, most likely it is caused by a weakened immune system or the possible entry of harmful cells into the body, for example, through a scratch, etc.

What to do if the lymph node in the back of the neck is inflamed

Most often, in children and adults, the lymph nodes become inflamed in the back of the neck due to reasons such as colds - sore throat, tuberculosis, as well as viral diseases such as rubella, toxoplasmosis and others. At the same time, it is almost impossible to avoid their increase.

Inflamed lymph nodes that appear on the back of the neck may not cause pain and can often be detected only by scratching or touching the back of the neck.

Having discovered an inflamed node on the back of the neck, you need to contact a specialist to identify the cause of inflammation and begin proper treatment.

Besides, it is important to follow the rules of hygiene, avoid mechanical or other impact on the inflamed node, for example, when combing, be careful not to touch the inflamed area.

In what cases do the nodes under the chin become inflamed?

The lymph nodes under the chin become inflamed, as a rule, due to pathological processes that occur in the throat, nose, bottom of the mouth and in the ear area. No less often they symbolize various inflammations of the teeth and palate.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes under the chin can be caused by ordinary cuts or small abrasions of the oral cavity, through which the infection could enter the body.

The nodes can increase either symmetrically, that is, on both sides simultaneously, or appear on only one side. This usually depends on the location of the pathology. For example, if your right ear hurts, then first of all characteristic bulges will appear under the chin on the right side.

The lymph node on the left and right neck is inflamed, what to do?

Lymph nodes in the neck in children and adults become inflamed closer to the site of infection entering the body or the primary occurrence of inflammatory reactions. So, if the initial process of inflammation of the thyroid gland is on the left, then the lymph nodes will first become inflamed on the left. If the right tonsil in the throat is inflamed, then the right lymph nodes will increase first.

note, if the lymph nodes are enlarged on the left side of the neck, this may indicate organ damage abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space. Therefore, in this case, without apparent reason inflammation of the lymph nodes, you need to consult a specialist and undergo an examination of the abdominal cavity.

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The lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed. Treatment, its types

If the nodes in the neck become inflamed, you should consult a specialist who will prescribe treatment. Self-medication is not recommended.

Initially, you need to see a therapist. He will prescribe a series of tests, and after that, he will decide whether the treatment is within his competence or will refer you to a doctor of the appropriate profile. For example, if the cause of inflammation of the nodes is dental problems, then go to the dentist, if there are thyroid disorders, go to the endocrinologist, etc.

Typically, a general practitioner prescribes a blood test, urine test, culture smear, and biochemistry. Additionally, ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, computed tomography, immunogram and testing for infections may be prescribed.

However, there are a number of medications and techniques that are prescribed most often:

• anti-inflammatory drugs, which include “Acyclovir”, “Keterol”, “Ibuprofen” and others, as well as for ear disease, these can be ear drops, for nose disease - nasal drops, etc.;
• antibacterial and antiviral drugs, such as Sumamed, Anaferon, Amoxicillin and others;

• for allergic inflammation of the lymph nodes, antihistamines are prescribed, such as Suprastin, Zodak, etc.;
• if there is a deficiency of vitamins and beneficial microelements, a course of vitamins and minerals is prescribed;
• for tumors, as a rule, Methotrexate, Thioguanine and others are prescribed; surgical intervention is indicated, which is used for large accumulations of pus in the lymph nodes;
• physiotherapy.

Typically, one of the following three types of physical therapy is prescribed:

• UHF (exposure electromagnetic field ultra-high frequency per person), is used for inflammation of nodes, if this is not associated with infection in the body.

A contraindication for this procedure is general intoxication of the body.;

• laser treatment;
• treatment with currents (galvanization) - is often used to prevent complications and to get rid of residual effects.

Important to remember that during treatment the patient needs bed rest and plenty of clean water.

What not to do with lymphadenitis

When the lymph nodes are inflamed, it is not recommended to engage in any type of self-medication (this applies to both adults and children in particular), regardless of the cause of the inflammation.

This is due to the fact that your actions can aggravate the situation and provoke complications.

But you need to know that there are a number of actions that are strictly forbidden to do when the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed.

These include:

• warming up the sites of inflammation of the nodes (often as a result of this action the lymph node becomes hard);
• applying iodine networks to the place of their formation;
• various kinds massage movements, rubbing and others similar actions in area inflamed nodes.

All of these actions in almost all cases lead to urgent hospitalization of patients. This is due to the fact that any of these movements accelerates the process of infection spreading into the body.

No less it is important to avoid any mechanical damage integrity of the lymph nodes, and even more so, it is strictly forbidden to open them, squeeze them out and perform other similar actions.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes in a child’s neck

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck in children are often not associated not so much with pathologies in their body, but with the physiological characteristics of childhood.

The risk group for inflammation of the lymph nodes, due to the immature lymphatic system, includes children in the age range from 5 to 7 years.

Just like in adults, the reasons may be:

• the entry of various types of infections into the body (in children this is often associated with animal bites or scratches from their claws),
• various infectious diseases (in children, as a rule, an extensive list of childhood diseases is also added, such as chickenpox, scarlet fever and others),
• allergies,

• ENT diseases,
• inflammation in the oral cavity and
• vaccinations, as a rule, mainly in the form of a reaction to vaccinations.

In addition, the child's lymph nodes in the neck often become inflamed after the appearance of purulent formations on the skin or with diseases of the scalp, such as lichen and others.

These are the most common, but not the only causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in children. There are a number of more serious factors contributing to the appearance of lymphadenitis. These include:

• Decreased immune system activity.

It often occurs in a child after hypothermia, when he has a deficiency of useful vitamins and microelements, as well as under stress. In addition, this manifestation is typical for children who have suffered severe infectious diseases.

• The child has an acute viral disease, characterized by fever, damage to the pharynx, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, as well as changes in blood composition, that is, mononucleosis.

Infectious diseases include toxoplasmosis, lymphangitis, tuberculosis, hepatitis and others. Often these diseases can be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, and convulsions. In addition, there is an enlargement of the spleen and liver.

• Oncology. Lymph nodes become inflamed due to metastases entering them.

In addition, children often have swollen lymph nodes due to the use of strong drugs. In this case You should consult your doctor about the advisability of using these medications..

Ultrasound of neck lymph nodes

For inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, it is often prescribed ultrasonography(ultrasound). On currently- this is one of the most effective, painless and harmless methods for determining the condition of the lymph nodes.

Ultrasound helps to obtain accurate information about the size of the lymph nodes, their location and shape, as well as structure and echogenicity.

Ultrasound should be performed for both children and adults, as it helps to determine the cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes. This study is also prescribed to monitor the treatment and its effectiveness.

But ultrasound is not the main and not the only method for diagnosing the disease. This method is used mainly to confirm the diagnosis.

Most often, ultrasound of the lymph nodes in the neck is prescribed for suspected:

• neoplasms in the form of tumors, metastases from malignant tumors,
• tuberculosis,
• leukemia,
• purulent-inflammatory processes in the neck area,
• syphilis,
• complications of fungal diseases of the skin,
• actinomycosis,
• leprosy,
• infections affecting the oropharynx and mononucleosis.
• if the inflammation of the lymph nodes does not go away for about 2 months, and for quite a long time the nodes continue to enlarge and fester.

Lymph nodes in the neck area are not examined using ultrasound if they are caused by ARVI, influenza, or other inflammatory processes occurring in the oropharynx.

Is it possible to warm the lymph nodes in the neck?

Heating inflamed lymph nodes is strictly prohibited., if the cause of their inflammation is unknown. Any heating of them, if the factor that provoked the inflammation allows it, should only take place after consultation with the attending physician.

Self-medication with this method can provoke an increase in the density of the node or provoke a sharp deterioration in the patient’s condition.

It is strictly forbidden to warm up lymph nodes in case of oncology, the presence of benign formations, purulent abscesses, acute and severe stages of the disease, fever and severe inflammation.

After consultation, the doctor may allow warming, but only for initial stage certain diseases, such as the ear. But usually in addition to this they are prescribed immune drugs and vitamin C.

Warming up is done in the following ways: apply heated salt, previously wrapped in a rag, to the site of inflammation in a rag, draw a mesh with iodine and make alcohol compresses.

How to treat swollen lymph nodes in the neck at home

It is necessary to use methods for treating swollen lymph nodes at home with extreme caution, especially if such treatment is used for children. In children, you should not warm up the inflamed area with an iodine mesh., due to the toxicity of iodine solution.

Before using any method, you need to know the cause of inflammation of the nodes. In addition, it is important to check for allergic reactions to the components of the products used in treatment.

Usually used at home the following means treatment:

• decoctions or tinctures;
• rinsing;
• massage;
• compresses.

The decoction can be prepared according to the following recipe: mix 20 g of hop cones, oregano, and yarrow. Add 10 g of horsetail to 5 g of this mixture and pour 1 glass of boiling water. Then steam the broth and leave to infuse for 15 minutes. This decoction is taken 3 times a day, half a glass.

You can buy fireweed tea at the pharmacy and drink it according to the instructions on the package. You can mix 5 g of elderberry, lavender, and wormwood inflorescences. Then brew these herbs in one glass of water. You need to drink this tea 2 times a day.

Infusions can be purchased at the pharmacy. The most commonly used infusions are ginseng, propolis, and echinacea.

For juice treatment, two important components are needed: beets and carrots. They are mixed in equal proportions and left for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator. This drink should be consumed 2 times a day, 100–150 ml.

Rinse solutions are used for diseases that occur in the oral cavity, for example, such as tonsillitis, stomatitis and other diseases. In this case, you need to gargle at least 3 times a day.

Salt, soda and iodine are often used, which are mixed with warm water and the resulting solution is gargled. It is also possible to use various herbs for rinsing, such as chamomile, mint, calendula.

In this case, before each rinse, it is recommended to prepare a new solution or take one prepared no more than 12 hours ago. To prepare such rinses, you usually need about 5 g of herb per 1 glass.

No less often, a home plant such as aloe is used to create a solution. Squeeze about 15 ml of juice into 1 glass, and rinse your mouth with this solution.

At home, you can do a light massage of the inflamed area. In this case, to increase the effect, it is allowed to use eucalyptus and lavender essential oils.

The procedure is carried out in a lying position, with smooth movements. The massage should begin from the collarbone area and end with stroking the ears. It is not recommended to make strong pressing movements. The duration of the procedure is about 10 minutes. It is necessary to perform a massage 2 times a day.

For a compress you can use dandelion and burdock. They must be applied to the inflamed area for about 2 hours.

It is also possible to prepare the ointment at home. To do this, you need to boil 200 g of pork or interior fat in a water bath. Then add 40 g of St. John's wort to it and simmer for 4 hours. This ointment is applied to the inflamed area 3 times a day. The ointment is stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Why self-medication is dangerous

Self-medication, in best case scenario, will not bring the desired result and will not harm your health, and at worst will significantly aggravate the situation.

In addition, without a proper examination, it is easy to make a mistake about the reason that provoked the inflammation of the lymph nodes (including those in the neck), and you can miss precious days, especially if the inflammation of the lymph nodes was caused by oncology or other serious diseases.

In addition, the components used for tinctures, mixtures and solutions with compresses can provoke allergic reactions in both children and adults.

Consequences of untreated lymph nodes

The lymph nodes themselves return to their normal state after proper treatment. IN otherwise, inflammatory purulent processes may begin, as a result of which the nodes will not be able to perform their functions of protecting the body, and the patient’s condition will worsen.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes is important to diagnose and begin to treat on time. Depending on the factor that provoked their inflammation, the following complications may occur: the appearance of chronic ENT diseases, complications of cancer or serious chronic diseases.

Carefully! The most dangerous complication is the fact that with prolonged inflammation of the nodes, their tissue can gradually be replaced by connective tissue, which will subsequently lead to disruption normal operation immune system, and which will be almost impossible to restore.

Prevention of lymphadenitis

The main prevention of inflammation of the lymph nodes is the timely treatment of diseases that have arisen in the body. And for young children, timely treatment of abrasions, scratches and any other violations of the integrity of the skin is also necessary.

You should not squeeze out acne and various manifestations on the skin, so as not to introduce an infection into the body.

In order not to get sick or to more easily transfer the disease It is necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle and observe personal hygiene rules. And since inflammation in the neck is often a sign of dental problems, need to visit the dentist more often, but at least once every six months.

Inflamed lymph nodes in the neck always indicate serious pathological processes occurring in the human body. Therefore, when they increase, it is necessary to seek specialized help, and not ignore the inflammation or self-medicate.

Why do the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed in children, what are the reasons and what to do in this case - Dr. Komarovsky advises:

Why the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed - a specialist will tell you about the reasons:

The neck contains a large number of lymph nodes, known as cervical lymph nodes, and many of them are superficial and easily palpable (can be felt by touch). Swollen neck lymph nodes are not uncommon and are common in children, even when there is no disease or obvious cause. With age, the frequency of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck decreases until it occurs due to some pathology.

The most common cause of swollen cervical lymph nodes is infection. While most cases of enlarged cervical lymph nodes resolve themselves fairly quickly, some may persist for a longer period of time and may require more aggressive intervention. Among this group, the supraclavicular lymph nodes are of particular importance. Their increase may not be a good sign, since it is most often associated with malignancy and indicates the need for careful diagnosis and investigation.

Anatomy of the cervical lymph nodes

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck can be localized when only certain groups lymph nodes in the neck area are enlarged. In some cases, it can be generalized when lymph nodes in other parts of the body are involved.

There are six different groups of lymph nodes located in the neck and according to their location they are classified as follows:

• Anterior cervical lymph nodes, which lie in the front of the neck and are of two types: superficial and deep. They dry out the internal structures of the throat, as well as the tonsils and thyroid gland.
• Posterior cervical lymph nodes, which are located in a line at the back of the neck, extending from the mastoid portion of the temporal bone (about the middle of the head) to the collarbone. They typically increase in the case of an upper respiratory tract infection.
• Almond lymph nodes, which are located directly under lower jaw. They dry out the tonsils and the back of the throat.
• Sub-mandibular lymph nodes, which lie along the lower jaw and drain the floor of the mouth, tongue, lips and conjunctiva. They are usually enlarged due to infections of the head, neck, sinuses, ears, eyes and throat.
• Sub-mental lymph nodes, which are located just below the chin and help drain the teeth, lower lip, floor of the mouth, tongue and cheeks. They usually become swollen due to mononucleosis, toxoplasmosis, and dental infections such as periodontitis.
• Supraclavicular lymph nodes, which are located in a depression just above the collarbone.
• The right supraclavicular lymph nodes drain the lungs, mediastinum and esophagus. They are usually enlarged due to lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancer or Hodgkin's lymphoma.
• The left supraclavicular lymph nodes provide drainage to the chest and abdomen. They may be enlarged due to breast or retroperitoneal cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, or infection. Enlargement of the left supraclavicular lymph nodes or enlargement of Virchow's node may be the first sign of stomach cancer, even before any other symptoms appear.

Causes of neck lymphadenopathy

Common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the neck include:

1. Infections

• Angina
• Tonsillitis
• Peritonsillar abscess
• Piggy
• Rubella
• Dental infections
• Ear infections
• Skin infections and infected wounds of the head and neck in particular
• Sinusitis
• Epiglottitis
• Infectious mononucleosis
• Tuberculosis
• Sarcoidosis
• Cat scratch disease
• Toxoplasmosis
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as syphilis, can also cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Malignant tumors, especially in the head or neck area, can lead to lymphadenopathy of the cervical lymph nodes. It may also indicate metastasis (spread of cancer) from other parts of the body or areas drained by affected lymph nodes. It is important to take note of Virchow's node, which can be an early warning sign of stomach cancer.

Among the cancers that swollen cervical lymph nodes may indicate are:

• Lymphoma is cancer of the lymph nodes. There are two forms of lymphoma - Hodgkin's disease and non-Hodgkin's disease.
• Leukemia is cancer of hematopoietic tissues, including bone marrow and lymphatic system, can cause enlarged lymph nodes.
• Melanoma is a type of skin cancer.
• Cancer of the mouth, larynx, or oropharynx can cause the draining lymph nodes in the neck to dilate.

1. Systemic causes of enlarged lymph nodes

Systemic causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck usually include Various types autoimmune diseases and other diseases that cause immune deficiency. Among them are:

• HIV AIDS
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus

Typically in these cases, lymph node swelling is not found in the cervical lymph nodes and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body.

1. Medicines and vaccines

Some drugs, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, can cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck as a side effect. Other drugs can also cause enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

Vaccinations to protect against measles, mumps and rubella, as well as the typhoid vaccine, can sometimes cause swollen lymph nodes, although this is usually temporary.

Duration of lymph node enlargement

Typically, with a bacterial or viral infection in the first stage, enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck is accompanied by an increase in temperature. When palpated, they become painful, and with prolonged swelling they appear additional signs: loss of appetite, general malaise of the body. When the disease is treated with antibiotics or other targeted agents, the swelling in the lymph node subsides and the pain goes away.

If the enlarged lymph nodes in the neck last for several months, this may indicate a tumor, and the symptoms cannot be treated with antibiotics.

With tumor lymphangitis, the nearest lymph nodes gradually enlarge, which can be located not only in the neck.

To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor can do an ultrasound and palpate the lymph nodes to determine their exact characteristics.

Diagnosis of inflamed cervical lymph nodes

The characteristics of swollen lymph nodes often help determine the cause of the swelling. Typically, a lymph node that is swollen due to infection is soft, tender, and mobile, with signs of inflammation on the skin. Cancerous lymph nodes are hard, fixed (not mobile), and usually not painful. Lymph nodes that appear connected to each other are called "confused" lymph nodes and may be associated with tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, or malignancy.

Lymph nodes are sometimes called "leaky" lymph nodes when they may be small, firm, and have a rubbery consistency. This type of lymph node can be seen after the infection has already been treated and does not have the typical characteristics, or in an infected or cancerous lymph node.

First of all, experts strive to exclude dangerous pathology, that is, they check for signs of cancer and exclude the presence of tumor metastases.

Persistent symptoms such as fever, night sweats, weight loss and fatigue may also provide clues as to the cause of swollen lymph nodes. If necessary, the doctor may consider biopsy for further investigation in order to make a final diagnosis.

In some cases, additional lab tests to determine white blood cell count, red blood cell rate, C-reactive protein test and others to help determine the underlying disease.

It can also be used to diagnose a disease that has caused inflammation of the lymph nodes. x-ray , but it will only be effective if calcium salts are deposited in the lymph nodes. In this case, the lymph nodes are clearly visible in the image, but such cases are quite rare, they are caused either by long-term changes or by severe metabolic disorders.

How is an ultrasound of the cervical lymph nodes performed?

The lymph node on ultrasound is presented as a hypoechoic mass with a constant geometric shape. Most lymph nodes have oval shape. Muscle fiber and the vessels may have the same appearance, but are tubular in shape, while the lymph node is oval in shape, regardless of the angle between the node and the transducer. Therefore, the patient is usually examined in two perpendicular sections.

Indications for ultrasound of cervical lymph nodes:

• Syphilis
• Leprosy
• Actinomycosis
• Tuberculosis
• Lymphomas (tumors of lymphoid tissue)
• Cancer metastases of other locations

IN everyday practice Ultrasound reveals enlarged lymph nodes in 10-30% of patients. Most are reactive and have no clinical or oncological significance. A reactive type lymph node is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Smooth edge
• Homogeneous or minimally heterogeneous structure,
• Oval shape,
• Clear boundaries.

If the node meets these characteristics, the probability of malignancy is reduced to one hundredth. Although malignant nodes are typically larger than benign lymph nodes, node size is of very limited diagnostic value.

If the lymph node does not meet any of the characteristics listed above, the doctor palpates it. The malignant nodule is very rarely tender and may only be painful in very advanced cases of metastatic carcinoma. On the other hand, a bacterially infected lymph node hurts in most cases. Such nodes have blurred boundaries, round shape, but their edges are often untouched. They may contain necrotic or cystic areas.

Specific lymphadenitis

Inflammatory processes in the lymph node system caused by specific infections, such as syphilis, whooping cough, tuberculosis, diphtheria, are called specific lymphadenitis. This condition is accompanied by high fever, as well as skin rash, headache, and fever.

Thus, the lymph node system acts as a protector of the body from various infections and cancers, so they often “take the hit” on themselves. Pathogenic organisms settle in the lymphatic tissue and are neutralized. If the lymph nodes enlarged for a while, but then returned to normal, it means that they have overcome the pathogen and everything is calm in the body again. But if the inflammation, as mentioned above, lasts for some time and does not go away, causes pain, begins to spread to the lymph nodes in other parts of the body, this serves as an alarm signal and indicates that it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor to determine the exact causes of the enlarged lymph nodes and staging correct diagnosis, on which the health, and sometimes the life, of the patient depends.

And finally - 2 videos “Causes of enlarged lymph nodes” and “Lymph nodes - invisible self-defense”:

Lymph nodes are a kind of filter in which the destruction of foreign proteins and harmful compounds is carried out. Forced production of immune cells is accompanied by enlargement of lymph nodes. This means that the body cannot cope with the load placed on it, and inflammation of the lymph occurs. With severe infection, pain is observed, the lymph nodes become denser, and the infected lymph enters other tissues and causes their inflammation. If the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, this indicates the development of an infection in the nasopharynx and oral cavity. Cervical lymphadenitis is accompanied by headaches, fever, and swelling of the neck.

Types of cervical lymphadenitis

Cervical lymphadenitis may be specific or nonspecific. This classification is based on the types of microorganisms causing inflammation. If an increase in nodes in the neck is a consequence of nonspecific lymphadenitis, then the source of the disease will most often be ordinary bacteria, viruses and fungi. Specific lymphadenitis becomes a consequence of infection with bacteria of tuberculosis, syphilis, brucellosis and a number of other pathogens that cause serious diseases.

According to the degree of the inflammatory process, the following types of cervical lymphadenitis are distinguished:

• Simple. It is characterized by a slight influx of leukocytes into the site of inflammation. Accompanied by impaired blood flow in the lymph node, which leads to swelling. Indicates the initial stage of the disease or its mild course.
• Hyperplastic. Lymphadenitis medium degree difficulties. Observed during a long course of the disease, it is accompanied by the proliferation of lymphatic tissue and its inflammation due to large quantity leukocytes in tissue.
• Purulent. Indicates the advanced state of the disease. It is dangerous because it can cause complete damage to the lymph node and its destruction. If not properly treated, it can lead to a purulent infection entering the brain tissue.

They also distinguish acute and chronic lymphadenitis. The first is a consequence of a highly virulent infection. The second can be caused by specific bacteria, when the disease is asymptomatic and chronic. Untreated acute lymphadenitis can also become chronic.

Why do the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed?

When the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, the causes are determined based on the general condition of the body. Typically, lymphadenitis is a consequence of infectious diseases. Inflammatory processes can affect various groups of lymph nodes:

Superficial. Lymph from the soft tissues of the head and neck accumulates in them. They become inflamed when the skin is damaged, accompanied by complications. They may be the result of purulent abscesses or advanced acne.

Deep. They are the result of infectious processes in the larynx, nasal cavity, neck muscles, upper esophagus and other internal organs of the head and neck.

Not everyone knows why the lymph nodes in the neck become inflamed, although the causes of the disease are obvious: violation of personal hygiene rules, neglect of safety rules during communication with infectious patients, and insufficient attention to abrasions and scratches. This is how the infection enters the body, causing an inflammatory process that the immune system cannot cope with on its own.

Among the diseases characterized by enlarged lymph nodes, the most common are the following:

• specific infectious diseases: tuberculosis, mononucleosis, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, etc.;
• acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections;
• fungal diseases, including ringworm and scab;
• rubella;
• caries and its complications;
• oncological diseases.

Not only viral and bacterial infections can lead to inflammation of the lymph nodes. There are known cases of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, the causes of which are non-infectious. Dental implants, silicone particles embedded in facial tissues, can also provoke inflammatory processes and lead to enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes.

Other non-infectious causes include:

• chronic fatigue;
• weakened immunity;
• alcoholism;
• side effect of medications;
• psychological problems.

Symptoms of inflamed lymph nodes in the neck

The first sign of inflammation is an increase in the size of the lymph nodes. It happens that the lymph node in the neck on one side is enlarged. This indicates that this node is working more actively. Bilateral lymphadenitis indicates the presence of a systemic disease that requires immediate treatment. The location of the lymph nodes in a person’s neck is obvious, so it is difficult to confuse them with other organs.

The growth of nodes can be either significant or barely palpable. In the latter case, as a rule, there is no pain or other symptoms indicating the disease.

Acute infection is accompanied by rapid enlargement of lymph nodes. The presence of this is indicated by:

• lack of appetite;
• bad feeling;
• body aches;
• weakness;

If the skin is red, swollen, and the lymph nodes in the neck are swollen, this may indicate the spread of a purulent infection. This condition is accompanied by chills, pain in the lymph nodes and high fever.

Chronic lymphadenitis may be asymptomatic. Lymphoid tissue often adheres to neighboring tissues, which limits lymph flow and leads to swelling.

Chronic lymphadenitis is dangerous because it can develop for a long time without any manifestations, hiding the true source of infection and masking the root cause of inflammation, which can be very serious diseases.

Diagnosis of cervical lymphadenitis

Usually, enlarged lymph nodes can be easily felt. It is not always possible to diagnose lymphadenitis, complicated by inflammatory processes in the internal organs of the neck and head. To establish the most accurate diagnosis, the following methods are used:

• lymph node biopsy;
• MRI or computed tomography;
• general blood analysis;
• radiography;
• ultrasonography;
• histological analysis.

The most accurate results are provided by a biopsy, which allows not only to detect the presence of inflammation of the lymph node, but also to determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to drugs.

Treatment of an inflamed lymph node in the neck

Treatment of lymphadenitis is based on eliminating the root cause of inflammation. As a rule, the answer to the question of how to treat an inflamed lymph node in the neck is limited to medication, but in some cases it is necessary to resort to surgical treatment.

Patients do not always know what to do if a lymph node becomes inflamed. First, you need to contact a therapist who will help establish an accurate diagnosis or refer you to doctors of narrow specialties.

In the presence of purulent inflammation in running form it will be required surgical removal affected tissue. In the event of a fungal disease, it will be sufficient to prescribe antifungal drugs that inhibit the growth of fungi. For tuberculous lymphadenitis, bacteriostatic drugs are prescribed to prevent the process of RNA formation. To eliminate inflammation, nonsteroidal drugs that block the activity of cyclooxygenase are used.

• Laser therapy. Improves lymph circulation in tissues, stimulates cell restoration.
• UHF therapy. Used in the treatment of acute lymphadenitis. Contraindicated in the presence of high fever, severe pain and suspected tuberculous lymphadenitis.
• Galvanization. It has an analgesic effect and promotes the restoration of damaged tissues. Recommended for chronic forms of lymphadenitis.

The question often arises: is it possible to warm the lymph nodes in the neck with severe lymphadenitis? Thermal exposure improves cell restoration, but before you start warming up the lymph nodes, you need to know exactly the cause of the disease.

It is worth refraining from warming up in the presence of tuberculous lymphadenitis and in case of severe intoxication of the body.

Anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to enhance the effect of drug treatment. herbal teas, among which the most well-proven complexes are those with dandelion root, calendula and nettle flowers.

Have you ever had swollen lymph nodes in your neck? What did you do in this case? Share your experience on

The lymph nodes receive interstitial fluid from the lymphatic capillary system, containing elements that do not enter the blood (coarsely dispersed proteins, fragments of dead cells, microorganisms and their metabolic products, etc.).

In case of cancer, tumor cells linger in the lymph nodes, which often settle there and begin to multiply, forming tumor metastasis. In this case it happens enlarged lymph nodes, as a rule, not accompanied by inflammation.

The occurrence of this pathology, as a rule, indicates a weakening of the body’s defense reactions caused by one reason or another (senile age or infancy, the presence of concomitant diseases, past infections, physical or psychological trauma, hypothermia, etc.).

Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes occurs both with nonspecific infections (streptococcus, staphylococcus, etc.) and with infections caused by specific microflora (tuberculosis, cat scratch disease, etc.).

It should be noted that the importance of lymph nodes for the body is not limited to the drainage function alone. Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes that produce antibodies against foreign proteins. When a sufficient number of microorganisms enter the lymph node, its working hypertrophy occurs.

In such cases, the enlargement of the lymph node is not associated with inflammation of its tissue, but with an increase in the number of lymphocytes that produce antibodies against this infection, as well as macrophages that absorb microorganisms, their waste products and dead cells.

Working hypertrophy of the lymph nodes occurs both in regional infections (chronic tonsillitis, pharyngitis, etc.) and in chronic septicemia (blood poisoning), which most often develops in severe blood diseases that occur with a decrease in the level of normal leukocytes in the blood (aplastic, chronic agranulocytosis, etc.).

Systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, etc.) are also characterized by working hypertrophy of the lymph nodes that produce antibodies against the tissues of the body’s own. In this case, the degree of enlargement of the lymph nodes indicates the activity of the process.

And finally, like any fabric human body, lymph nodes may undergo tumor degeneration. In such cases (lymphogranulomatosis, lymphomas), an enlargement of the lymph nodes of a non-inflammatory nature also occurs.

Signs of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes. How to determine enlarged lymph nodes yourself?

It is believed that normally the size of lymph nodes should not exceed 1 cm. The size of lymph nodes depends on their location and the individual characteristics of the body. It should be noted that most lymph nodes in normal condition cannot be palpated at all.

When diagnosing pathological enlargement of lymph nodes, other signs are also taken into account. Normal lymph nodes:
1. Absolutely painless on palpation.
2. They have a densely elastic consistency.
3. Movable (easily move when palpated).

With enlargement and inflammation, the lymph nodes often become painful and lumpy, lose elasticity, and in case of chronic process often unite into one irregularly shaped conglomerate and become fused with the surrounding tissues.

In addition, in some cases, with inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes, the skin over them undergoes pathological changes: pain, swelling and hyperemia (redness) are observed.

It is quite possible to determine the described signs independently by palpation, however, to make a diagnosis it is necessary additional examination And.

Causes

Thus, the list of diseases in which enlargement of lymph nodes occurs is quite long, so that in case of suspected inflammation of the lymph nodes, it is often necessary to differentiate with non-inflammatory enlargement (tumor metastases to the lymph nodes, lymphogranulomatosis, etc.).

Causes of enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes - video

How to determine inflammation of the lymph nodes? Pain, temperature and enlargement as symptoms of acute inflammation of the lymph nodes

Thus, when the lymph nodes become inflamed, their size always increases. However, there are many pathologies that occur with regional or systemic enlargement of the lymph nodes, which are not accompanied by inflammation.

Therefore, when making a diagnosis, you have to take into account other signs that indicate this symptom. So, a mandatory sign of any inflammatory process is pain. Therefore, in case of acute inflammation, the lymph nodes are always painful to the touch. In addition, with severe inflammation, patients complain of pain in the affected lymph node, which intensifies with movement.

If inflammation of the lymph node develops acutely and violently, then the gate of infection can be easily detected - the source of inflammation from which, through the flow of lymphatic vessels, pathogenic microorganisms entered the affected node. It could be a wound on the surface of the skin, a sore throat, inflammatory lesion external genitalia (vaginitis, balanitis), etc.

And finally, when acute inflammation lymph node, a general reaction of the body is observed:

• increased body temperature (sometimes to very high numbers);
• chills;
• headache;
• weakness;

Thus, differential diagnosis inflammatory and non-inflammatory enlargement of lymph nodes can present great difficulties.

Therefore, if the lymph nodes are inflamed, it is necessary to consult a doctor to undergo a thorough examination, identify the cause of their enlargement and promptly begin adequate therapy.

Nonspecific infections as a cause of enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular, cervical, axillary, elbow, inguinal, femoral, or popliteal lymph nodes: symptoms and treatment

Nonspecific infection, as one of the most common causes of pathology

These are microorganisms that often inhabit the human body, usually without causing signs of disease. However, when favorable conditions arise (hypothermia, illness, injury, etc.), opportunistic microflora begins to multiply intensively, which leads to the development of the disease.

Most often, nonspecific inflammation of the lymph nodes is caused by so-called pyogenic cocci:

• less often - E. coli;
• even less often - other opportunistic microorganisms.

• submandibular;
• cervical;
• axillary;
• elbows;
• inguinal;
• femoral;
• popliteal

Infection during acute inflammation enters the lymph node from a local focus (carbuncle, boil, open infected wound, panaritium, etc.) and causes severe reaction, for which the following clinical and morphological classification exists:
1. Acute catarrhal lymphadenitis.
2. Acute purulent lymphadenitis.
3. Adenophlegmon.

These types of acute inflammation of the lymph nodes represent stages of a pathological process, which, with timely and adequate treatment, can be stopped at the stage of catarrhal lymphadenitis.

Chronic nonspecific inflammation of the lymph nodes, as a rule, occurs as a local complication of chronic foci of infection. Less commonly, it develops as a result of untreated acute catarrhal lymphadenitis.

The course of chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes is productive (connective tissue grows inside the lymph node), so that over time, the enlargement of the affected lymph node is replaced by its degenerative shrinkage. In this case, suppuration occurs extremely rarely.

What does acute purulent inflammation of the lymph nodes look like?

If the patient does not receive adequate treatment, the catarrhal process can turn purulent. Purulent lymphadenitis is characteristic of the affected area, intensifying with movement. Palpation of the lymph nodes is extremely painful; a dense infiltrate is felt in the affected area, consisting of inflamed nodes and edematous surrounding tissues. Redness and swelling appear above the inflamed formations. The general reaction of the body intensifies: the temperature rises to febrile levels (38-39), patients complain of increasing weakness, etc.

Then, in the center of the infiltrate, a purulent melting of tissue forms, which is palpated in the form of a softening focus. With further development, adenophlegmon is formed - diffuse purulent inflammation of the tissues surrounding the affected lymph node. The patient's condition worsens: movements in the affected part of the body are severely difficult due to pain, fever with chills increases, heart rate increases, blood pressure may decrease, headaches intensify, nausea and dizziness appear.

Consequences

In addition, when untimely treatment acute inflammation of the lymph nodes there is a threat of developing purulent inflammation (purulent inflammation of the veins of the affected part of the body), which, in turn, can be complicated by pulmonary embolism (clogging of the pulmonary vessels with fragments of blood clots and/or fragments of pus entering the bloodstream) or sepsis.

How to treat?

Most often, acute inflammation of the lymph node occurs on the extremities. In such cases, immobilization (immobilization) of the affected arm or leg is performed. This measure prevents the spread of infection and relieves the patient.

At the stage of catarrhal inflammation, conservative treatment is carried out. Antibiotic therapy is indicated taking into account the sensitivity of the microflora to antibiotics, dry heat(compresses, UHF, etc.).

In case of purulent melting of the lymph node and lymphophlegmon, the resulting abscess is opened, followed by drainage of the cavity.

Long-term painless enlargement of lymph nodes in chronic inflammation caused by nonspecific microflora

• chronic tonsillitis;
• pharyngitis;
• trophic ulcer of the leg;
• chronic inflammatory diseases of the external genitalia, etc.

How to cure?

Antibiotics are prescribed. At the same time, samples are taken from the source of infection to determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to drugs (nonspecific microflora is often resistant to many antibacterial agents).

In addition, activities are carried out to strengthen protective forces body: vitamin therapy, general tonics, herbal medicine, Spa treatment etc.

Is chronic enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes caused by nonspecific microflora dangerous?

Long-term chronic inflammation of the lymph nodes leads to their degeneration. Sometimes, as a result of growth connective tissue, in the affected lymph node, lymph drainage is disrupted and lymphostasis develops, which is clinically manifested by chronic swelling and trophic disorders in the affected area of ​​the body.

IN severe cases with chronic lymphostasis, elephantiasis develops - a pathological proliferation of connective tissue, leading to a significant increase and disfigurement of the affected area of ​​the body. Most often, elephantiasis is observed on the lower extremities, which in such cases visually resemble the legs of an elephant - hence the name.

Specific infections as a cause of enlargement and inflammation
lymph nodes

Tuberculosis

This is the most common form of primary tuberculosis (about 80% of all cases). This increased incidence is associated with vaccination against the disease. That is why tuberculosis of the intrathoracic lymph nodes is more common in children, adolescents and young people, when the artificial one is still quite strong.

Symptoms of tuberculous inflammation of the intrathoracic lymph nodes depend on the degree of their enlargement, the localization of the process and its prevalence.

A common process is manifested by a severe whooping cough, worsening at night. At first the cough is dry, then sputum appears. In addition, signs of tuberculosis intoxication are characteristic: weakness, lethargy, fever (sometimes up to high numbers), night sweats, irritability.

In minor forms, which are more often observed in vaccinated children, the disease is practically asymptomatic and is detected only during routine examinations.

Enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the lungs
When infected with tuberculosis, the so-called primary tuberculosis complex often forms in the lung tissue - inflammation of an area of ​​the lung tissue, combined with lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymphatic vessel) and lymphadenitis.

It should be noted that in many cases, the primary tuberculosis complex is asymptomatic and is often not diagnosed - at this stage self-healing is possible (resorption or calcification of the lesion).

In addition to enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the lungs, during primary infection there is often a reactive enlargement of the superficial lymph nodes (reaction to infection), which has an important diagnostic value.

If the course of the disease is unfavorable, further distribution infections. In this case, the lung tissue is affected and other nodes become enlarged and inflamed.

Signs of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes are detected radiographically, but clinical manifestations depend on the location and degree of their enlargement. Thus, when the airways are compressed, an obsessive dry cough is possible, and when the trachea is partially blocked, noisy breathing occurs.

The clinical picture of tuberculous lymphadenitis, as a rule, develops against the background of severe intoxication and symptoms of lung damage (cough, shortness of breath, chest pain).

Enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular, cervical, axillary, inguinal and ulnar lymph nodes
Infectious and inflammatory lesions of superficial lymph nodes in tuberculosis develop when the infection spreads throughout the body some time after the initial infection.

Most often, enlargement and inflammation of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes occur. At the initial stage of the process, symptoms of tuberculosis intoxication are observed, as well as pain in the area of ​​the affected nodes, which during this period are palpable as mobile elastic formations.

Subsequently, the lymph nodes fuse together and with surrounding tissues, and then suppuration occurs with the formation of an external long-term non-healing fistula.

In addition to the formation of fistulas and abscesses, enlargement and inflammation of the superficial lymph nodes during tuberculosis can lead to bleeding (when the vessel wall is infiltrated) and to the generalization of the process.

Symptoms of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the abdominal cavity (mesenteric lymph nodes) with abdominal tuberculosis
Abdominal tuberculosis is a fairly rare form of tuberculosis that affects the abdominal organs. As a rule, abdominal tuberculosis occurs with mesadenitis - enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity.

There are acute and chronic course tuberculous mesadenitis. In the acute form, patients complain of severe abdominal pain, which, as a rule, is localized along the intestinal mesentery, to which the inflamed lymph nodes are attached: in the navel, in the left hypochondrium and in the right iliac region(to the right and below the navel). A characteristic symptom is shifting pain when the patient turns to the left side.

Chronic mesadenitis occurs with remissions and exacerbations, and can manifest itself as attacks of intestinal colic or constant dull aching pain. Patients often complain of bloating, which increases in the evening.

A serious complication of chronic enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes of the abdominal cavity is the formation of bedsores of the neurovascular bundle due to prolonged pressure from calcified nodes.

Enlargement and inflammation of the inguinal, mandibular and mental lymph nodes in primary syphilis

A few days after the appearance of hard chancre, enlargement and inflammation of the nearest lymph nodes develop. Since infection most often occurs during sexual intercourse and kissing, the inguinal lymph nodes are most often affected (if the chancre is located on the genitals), as well as the mandibular or chin (if the primary ulcer is located on the lips or in the oral cavity).

Enlargement of the inguinal and mandibular lymph nodes is usually bilateral, up to the size hazelnut or beans. At the same time, the affected nodes retain a hard-elastic consistency, are mobile and absolutely painless. Often, concomitant lymphangitis develops - inflammation of the lymphatic vessel leading to the enlarged node. The inflamed lymphatic vessel is palpable in the form of a hard thin cord, sometimes with distinct thickenings.

Much less often, the primary ulcer occurs on the fingers (infection is possible through damaged skin if hygiene rules are violated during the examination) or on the body (most often due to bites). In such cases, the corresponding regional lymph nodes become inflamed.

Duration primary syphilis– about 12 weeks. All its manifestations are painless and disappear on their own, without treatment. Rarely (when the body is weakened and hygiene rules are violated) a secondary infection occurs and inflammation of the chancre occurs. In such cases, the development of purulent lymphadenitis is possible.

Enlargement and inflammation of the occipital, cervical, parotid, popliteal and axillary lymph nodes as an important diagnostic sign of rubella

Most often with rubella, enlargement and inflammation of the occipital, posterior cervical and parotid lymph nodes occur. In this case, patients complain of pain in the neck, which intensifies with head movements.

Palpation reveals a painful enlargement of the lymph nodes (usually to the size of a bean), while their dense elastic consistency and mobility are preserved.

Chickenpox

It should be noted that this symptom does not develop in all cases, and in adult patients, as a rule, indicates the severity of the disease.

HIV

Apart from enlarged lymph nodes, no other manifestations are noted at this time, although laboratory tests can already detect the disease. That is why clinicians often call this stage the stage of generalized lymphadenopathy.

The most commonly affected are the cervical, occipital and axillary lymph nodes. It is believed that the enlargement of two or more groups of extra-inguinal lymph nodes (size more than 1 cm) for more than three months should raise suspicion of HIV.

Of course, generalized enlargement of lymph nodes occurs in many diseases, so this sign cannot be considered an unconditional marker of HIV, therefore for correct setting diagnosis requires further examination.

Enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes – constant sign expanded clinical stage AIDS. It should be noted that during this period, lymphadenopathy can be caused by both HIV and infectious complications that develop at this stage of the disease.

What is the danger of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes during specific infections?

Causes of enlargement and inflammation of lymph nodes in children

In addition, some infections causing an increase and inflammation of the lymph nodes, develop mainly in children (rubella, chickenpox, measles).

The cause of non-inflammatory lymph node enlargement at an early age may be severe hematological diseases (acute leukemia, lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis, congenital pathology blood).

But cancerous lesions of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and mammary gland, which can metastasize to the lymph nodes, are practically never found in children.

Answers to the most popular questions

What are the causes of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes in the groin in men and women?

However, the most common cause of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin is inflammatory processes of the external genital organs (vaginitis in women, balanitis in men), which can be caused by both specific (gonorrhea, syphilis, chancroid, genital) and nonspecific microflora (with and violation of personal hygiene rules).

When making a diagnosis, the possibility of non-inflammatory lymph node enlargement should be taken into account. It is necessary to exclude their metastatic damage during the tumor process in the pelvic organs, as well as malignant transformation of lymphoid tissue (lymphoma).

When does enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the arms develop in women?

In addition, enlargement and inflammation of the axillary lymph nodes in women may be a consequence of the presence of silicone implants.

And finally, in women, as well as in men, enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the armpits develops with tumors (melanoma) and infectious diseases of the external skin of the upper extremities and chest (infected wounds, ulcers, cat scratch disease, etc.).

A differential diagnosis with lymphoma is routinely performed.

What could be the reasons for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes in the neck?

Differential diagnosis of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes located in the back of the neck is much more difficult. In addition to a banal infection, such lymphadenitis may indicate rubella or tuberculosis.

In addition, the possibility of developing lymphoma and metastatic lesions of the lymph nodes in malignant neoplasms of the head and neck should be taken into account.

Which doctor should I contact?

I'm expecting a baby (fourth month of pregnancy). I recently caught a cold, a severe sore throat, and a fever. Today I noticed enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes under the jaw. How dangerous is it during pregnancy?

This condition, in itself, does not pose a danger, but it is necessary to urgently seek medical help and undergo a course of treatment, since untimely or inadequate treatment may lead to the development of complications - such as, for example, suppuration of the lymph node or the development of streptococcal.

Complications of this kind can threaten pregnancy, and it will be much more difficult to cure them without harm to the child.

What tests are prescribed?

• type of course (acute or chronic inflammation);
• prevalence (generalized or regional enlargement of lymph nodes);
• the presence of other symptoms of lymph node pathology (pain on palpation, loss of consistency, adhesion to surrounding tissues, etc.);
• the presence of specific signs that allow one to suspect a specific pathology (characteristic intoxication syndrome in tuberculosis, chancroid in syphilis, rash in measles, focus of infection in acute inflammation of the lymph node, etc.).

What antibiotic is prescribed for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes?

When nonspecific inflammation It is recommended to test the sensitivity of the pathogen to antibiotics. The fact is that many strains (varieties) of opportunistic microorganisms (especially staphylococci) develop resistance to antibiotics.

The sample is easy to take if there is a gate of infection (infected wound, boil, acute tonsillitis and so on.). In the absence of an open source of infection (healed wound), and before receiving the test results, antibiotics that have proven their effectiveness against nonspecific microflora are prescribed.

In cases where the antibiotic does not have the desired effect (there are no signs of clinical improvement), another medication is prescribed. Of course, all medications for enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes are prescribed by a doctor, taking into account contraindications.

Is it possible to apply compresses?

An absolute contraindication to this type of procedure is malignant neoplasms(metastases to the lymph node, lymphoma), so if the lymph nodes are enlarged and inflamed, you should never self-medicate.

Treatment of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes using compresses is carried out on the recommendation and under the supervision of a doctor.

Is ichthyol ointment and Vishnevsky ointment used for enlargement and inflammation?
lymph nodes?

The drug is used in combination with other medical measures in the treatment of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes in cases where the cause of the pathology is the existence of long-term non-healing wounds, abrasions, trophic ulcers or bedsores. The ointment is applied to the affected surfaces that have become the gateway to infection. In the case of chronic inflammation, therapy of the primary lesion is essentially a treatment of lymphadenopathy.

Ichthyol ointment is a rather weak antiseptic, but has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and soothing effect, so it is often used for local treatment in the initial stage of acute enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by a nonspecific infection.

Local treatment is necessarily supplemented with antibiotic therapy; drugs and dosage regimens are prescribed by the doctor after an examination.

The child has symptoms of enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes behind the ear. Which doctor should I contact? Are there any traditional treatments?

Of course, this is not the only possible diagnosis. The parotid lymph nodes receive tissue fluid from the temporal region of the head, the auricle and the external ear canal, therefore, enlargement and inflammation of the lymph node behind the ear may indicate infections of the scalp (boils, wounds) or acute or chronic inflammation of the external auditory canal (this pathology occurs quite often in children).

If there is a purulent focus on the temporal surface of the head, you should contact a surgeon; if there is inflammation of the external auditory canal, you should contact an otorhinolaryngologist (ENT).

As for the traditional treatment of enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes, it (especially herbal medicine) is often prescribed in conjunction with other medical measures.

However, before starting treatment, including traditional treatment, it is necessary to undergo a thorough examination and establish a diagnosis.

Lymph– a very important fluid in the human body. It helps eliminate toxins, waste and other harmful substances. The movement of this substance is carried out along lymphatic vessels, which unite to form lymph nodes. Lymphocytes are formed in them - a kind of shield of the human body from infections, viruses and even tumors. Large collections of lymph nodes are found in the neck, in axillary area, in the groin, in the elbow and knee bends. Each of these clusters is responsible for the functioning of certain organs.

Let's look at where exactly the lymph nodes are located in the neck:

• submental nodes are located directly under the chin;
• submandibular - under the bone of the lower jaw;
• retropharyngeal - between the ear and lower jaw, where the bone forms an angle;
• parotid - at the entrance to the auricle;
• behind the ear - behind the auricle;
• occipital - on the back of the head at the base of the skull;
• anterior cervical - on the neck in front on the sides of the Adam's apple, slightly retreating from it;
• posterior cervical lymph nodes are located on the back of the neck on either side of the spine;
• supraclavicular - in the depression above the collarbone;
• subclavian - under the collarbone.

The normal size of a lymph node in the neck is from 1 to 2 centimeters. In the normal state, the nodes are poorly palpable or not felt at all. In the neck we can only detect anterior cervical nodes. These touches are not painful, and the skin in these places is smooth.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

If the lymph node in the neck is enlarged, this indicates some kind of health problem. The cause of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck can be various factors. Most often these are inflammatory processes, infections of nearby organs:

• , respiratory infections can cause the lymph node in the neck on the right and left to become enlarged;
• , other similar diseases can lead to enlargement of the parotid nodes;
• inflammation of the gums, diseases of the oral cavity;
• tuberculosis and so on.

Lymphadenitis (enlargement of nodes associated with inflammation) usually leads not only to an increase in the size of the node, but also to painful sensations while palpating the swollen area. Why do the lymph nodes in the neck enlarge? This process is provoked by increased production of white cells caused by the inflammatory process.

But not only diseases of nearby organs can cause large lymph nodes in the neck. This fact may indicate a failure in endocrine system a person, that the immune system could not withstand the onslaught of a serious illness. Infections such as HIV can cause the body to react in this way.

If the cervical lymph nodes are inflamed, especially in the back of the head, it hurts to swallow, you feel constant weakness, and the temperature constantly rises, then these may be symptoms of a cancerous tumor. A characteristic sign of this disease is that the lymph nodes become hard and do not bend under the fingers.

Methods for treating large lymph nodes in the neck

In any case, if the nodes become enlarged, you should consult a doctor. Self-medication can lead to disastrous consequences. If the cause of lymphadenitis is a viral infection provoked by pathogenic bacteria, then, as a rule, the doctor prescribes a course of antibiotics. Identifying the cause of inflammatory processes and treating it with medications is the main tactic in the treatment of such diseases.

In the case of the formation of malignant tumors, a course of chemotherapy is prescribed, as well as a course radiation therapy. If inflammation leads to purulent formations, then surgery will most likely be required. In addition to medications, there are traditional medicines that help relieve the symptoms of lymphadenitis.

IN Each person's body has about 1,000 lymph nodes, which are located in the neck, in the folds of the arms and legs, in the chest cavity, under the jaw and in the abdominal cavity.

The normal size of a lymph node is 5 to 10 mm.

Immune cells are formed in the lymph nodes. Since the nodes filter the body from harmful compounds, foreign proteins, pathogens and bad cells, immune cells destroy these harmful microorganisms.

There are parietal and peripheral lymph nodes. Parietal ones are located near human organs on the walls of cavities. Peripheral nodes are located on the back of the head, neck, elbow flexion, under the knees, in the groin area and armpits. They are located in groups - from 12 to 45.

Enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck occurs when the attacks of harmful substances are strong, and a large load is placed on the node to destroy pathogens. Lymph may be infected or the tissues through which it flows to cleanse the body may become inflamed.

Over time, when the body copes with the infection, the lymph nodes become the same in size, but still denser.

It is almost impossible to palpate the lymph nodes in young children, since they have not yet been seriously ill. If the lymph nodes in a child’s neck are enlarged, this most often indicates a cold.

In adults, the lymph nodes in the neck and under the jaw can be easily felt. The situation is worse with abdominal lymph nodes, which cannot be palpated. If such nodes become inflamed, doctors can often confuse the diagnosis with appendicitis or other inflammation.

Painless, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are called lymphadenopathy. If such a phenomenon is observed, we can conclude that there is a disease in the nearby tissues.

If an enlarged lymph node hurts, this is a sign of an inflammatory process in the node itself. This phenomenon is called lymphadenitis. The lymph node cannot cope with filtering lymph, or there are too many microbes. This can also happen when the immune system is weakened and unable to cope with the disease. As a result, the lymph node enlarges.

In such cases, suppuration may form between the tissues, which only surgeons can remove. If the lymph nodes are very dense and become one immobile group, the doctor can diagnose a malignant tumor.

Cancer cells

Each person produces up to one hundred thousand cancer cells per day. These are the cells that change their properties. These cells travel throughout the body, and the lymph nodes neutralize these disease-causing cells. In those people who are predisposed to cancer due to heredity, the lymph nodes do their job worse. They are less able to distinguish harmful cells and may not detect them in tissues. Therefore, cancer cells begin to multiply.

Reduced immunity

When lymph nodes in the neck become enlarged in children or adults due to colds, this is called local lymphadenopathy. It occurs due to decreased immunity, when the body finds it difficult to cope with viruses and infections.

There is also a generalized enlargement of lymph nodes. Nodes appear everywhere, become inflamed and swollen. This happens with AIDS. The immune system fights the virus, but eventually it weakens, and the human body cannot cope with new tumors and infections. Lymph nodes stop performing their function.

However, you should not immediately panic; most often, an enlarged lymph node is simply a sign that the immune system is doing its protective work.

Still, if the lymph nodes are inflamed, it is better to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the enlarged nodes. Most often, inflamed lymph nodes do not require treatment. You just need to cure a sore tooth or throat. Over the course of a person’s entire life, lymph nodes often enlarge as the immune system fights painful microorganisms, but this enlargement does not bring anything dangerous.

• Rhinitis;
• Sore throat, pneumonia;
• Otitis;
• Caries, gumboil;
• Cat and rat scratches, boils;
• Disorders of the thyroid gland;
• Metabolic disease;
• Frequent intake of alcoholic beverages;
• Allergic reactions;
• Immunodeficiency in humans;
• Fungal diseases;
• Venereal diseases;
• Oncology, syphilis, tuberculosis;
• HIV infection

Lymphadenitis in the neck is dangerous only because it is located close to the brain. And if the lymph node cannot cope with the infection, then it can get there too.

If the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, the causes can be determined by the disease:

• Enlarged retropharyngeal lymph nodes indicate that an infection has entered the nasopharynx;
• Submandibular - increase after infection from the face and oral cavity;
• Superficial lymph nodes enlarge due to scratches, boils, and skin damage.

If there is bilateral enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck, this indicates more serious diseases.

If a child has an enlarged lymph node on one side of the neck, this can lead to torticollis.

If a person has an enlarged lymph node in the neck, he feels discomfort when turning his head, and a sharp or nagging pain may occur. With such discomfort, a person himself can feel the enlarged lymph nodes, which look like small bumps. When you press on them, pain occurs.

With enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, complications with swallowing begin. It is painful for the patient to eat and drink. There is also pain when speaking.

If the immune system does not cope with the infection, then pus may collect in the enlarged lymph nodes, and intoxication of the body will begin. Symptoms such as headache, lack of appetite, fever, and weakness will be present. There is no desire to work and have fun.

If you do not contact a specialist in time, purulent decomposition of the lymph node tissue will begin. The neck in the area of ​​the lymph nodes becomes hot, swelling appears, which can spread to the entire neck.

Lymphadenitis and its treatment

If your lymph nodes are enlarged, you should immediately consult a doctor to avoid serious consequences.

Specialists conduct a full examination and determine the cause of enlarged cervical lymph nodes.

A blood test can detect an inflammatory process in the human body. Based on the quantitative characteristics, a specialist can draw a conclusion about the severity of the disease and prescribe appropriate treatment. From which we can conclude that the sooner the patient consults a doctor, the less advanced the disease will be detected and the treatment process will not be difficult.

Sometimes it is necessary to undergo a biopsy to determine the exact source of the disease. The doctor prescribes targeted therapy, which also relieves pain and makes the patient feel better.

Special medications are also prescribed that improve the functioning of the immune system and eliminate the inflammatory process (Prednisolone, Medrol). Antibiotics may be prescribed. It is recommended to take multivitamins and vitamin C, which also help strengthen the immune system.

Camphor oil compresses and rubbing with ichthyol ointment can also be used to treat enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

In case of purulent tumors, it is necessary to perform operations and cut them out.

The treatment of enlarged lymph nodes is carried out by specialists such as an infectious disease specialist, an oncologist and a surgeon.

If you delay the disease process and do not consult a doctor, a purulent tumor in the neck can reach the brain and develop into meningitis. In addition, an advanced disease can lead to blood poisoning, and then the entire infection will be spread throughout the body. In this case, the patient will be in mortal danger.

Lymph nodes are found throughout the body and contain lymph fluid that protects and filters the human body from bacteria and cancer cells. They are an integral part of the immune system.

If the cervical lymph node is enlarged, it can cause swelling of the tonsils, parotid glands, tear glands, thyroid gland and salivary glands.

Enlarged lymph nodes at the back of the neck

Enlarged lymph nodes on the back of the neck (photo) are a sign of an inflammatory process in the human body.

Such inflammation may indicate that a person is sick with tuberculosis, tonsillitis, acute pharyngitis, sore throat or colds. This phenomenon may also indicate the presence of rubella, a virus, or toxoplasmosis.

Symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes in the back of the neck

• Painful or painless soft swellings are felt on the neck;
• The cancer may also have affected the lymph nodes in the neck;
• A cold is the most common symptom of this phenomenon;
• Redness on the neck.

Highly qualified specialists can determine the cause of enlarged lymph nodes by their appearance, as well as by touching the inflammation.

If the lymph node enlarges and then quickly disappears (shrinks), we can conclude that microbes have entered the wound and reached the lymph nodes in the neck.

If a person has chronic enlargement of the lymph nodes, then pain during their inflammation may be absent. But with frequent inflammation, this can cause degeneration of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes.

With painless inflammation, diagnosis is poorer, and only a doctor can identify the cause of the disease.

Enlarged axillary nodes are very common. Why does this happen and what diseases do such inflammations indicate?

Axillary lymph nodes are peripheral nodes. Most often they react to diseases of the upper extremities, mammary gland, shoulder, neck, and chest.

Lymphocytes arrive from the lymph node to the site of inflammation, which, thanks to the response of the immune system, eliminate foreign proteins.

If the axillary lymph node is enlarged, the reasons for this are:

• Inflammation of the sweat glands, their blockage;
• Inflammation of hair follicles;
• Boils, wounds on the arms or chest area;

You should adhere to all sanitary and hygienic rules and use deodorant correctly. For people prone to excessive sweating, enlarged axillary lymph nodes are not uncommon.

Often inflammation in the armpits occurs in people suffering from diabetes.

During lactation and pregnancy, a slight enlargement of the axillary lymph nodes may also appear. But it is not dangerous and does not require treatment. Also, the lymph nodes in the armpits become enlarged with mastitis in women.

Enlarged lymph nodes in children can be accompanied by diseases such as measles, mononucleosis, and chickenpox. Having cured the underlying disease, the lymph nodes will return to their previous shape.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes can be caused by diseases such as psoriasis, eczema, neurodermatitis and other skin diseases.

Lymph nodes in the armpits enlarge in cases of cancer, AIDS, breast cancer, tuberculosis, syphilis, tularemia, plague, brucellosis, lymphogranulomatosis.

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpits are more often a sign of serious illness than inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck.

Types of lymphadenopathy

• Inflammatory;
• Non-inflammatory (no pain)

Treatment for these types is different. Inflammatory types of lymph nodes are treated with antibiotics.

If treatment for an enlarged lymph node does not help within three weeks, your doctor may prescribe a puncture or biopsy.

It must be remembered that self-treatment of an armpit tumor at home is unacceptable. You should definitely consult a doctor as soon as possible. For oncological diseases, breast cancer, purulent tumors, surgical intervention is necessary.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to avoid enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, since a person cannot be protected from colds, viruses and infections. Bacteria surround us everywhere, but for some people the immune system is stronger and copes with filtering out harmful microorganisms, while for others a viral infection can develop into a serious illness.

It is necessary to undergo preventive medical examinations more often in order not to develop diseases. It is also necessary to remember about hygiene products and rules. Try not to contact sick people and not expose your body to infections.

As you can see, inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck and the causes of its occurrence are varied and not always safe.

If it happens that you get sick, you don’t need to make the disease worse, but get rid of infections as quickly as possible.

Enlarged lymph nodes are not fatal. But you should immediately contact a specialist to avoid progression of the disease.

Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck indicate the development of dysfunction in the body. They are a kind of filters that allow lymph to pass through them. The purpose of the lymph nodes is to remove pathogens. With large accumulations of pathogenic bacteria and atypical cells, there is a need for the system to operate in an enhanced mode. At the same time, the number of immune cells increases. As a result of this process, an enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck occurs.

Causes of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck:

• Violations by protective functions body.
• Infectious lesion: sore throat, otitis media, ARVI, etc.
• Crashes metabolic processes and fungal diseases.
• Chronic alcoholism and caries.
• Autoimmune diseases: diabetes, arthritis, etc.

The causative agents of enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are streptococci, staphylococci and coli. Non-infectious agents, such as dental implants, may also be the cause. chronic fatigue And adverse reactions medical drugs.

Symptoms

Enlarged lymph nodes may not be accompanied by pain. Pain usually occurs only in response to an inflammatory response. In its absence, discomfort does not occur. The lymph node in the neck may be enlarged on one side or on both sides at once. If such symptoms appear, it is recommended to consult a doctor. The sooner the diagnosis is made and treatment is prescribed, the greater the chance that complications will not arise.

Enlarged cervical lymph nodes are accompanied by the development of the following clinical picture:

• A lump under the skin is the size of a pea.
• Swelling and redness (not in all cases).
• Discomfort during palpation and swallowing.
• Hyperemia skin around seals.
• Increase in low-grade fever.

Severe body aches appear. The patient feels weak and suffers from a headache. If swelling and redness occurs, then we are talking about the development of a purulent process - a serous form of lymphadenitis. In this case, there is a high risk of spreading purulent contents to adjacent tissues.

Lymphadenitis can occur without symptoms. In this case we are talking about chronic form disease, which indicates the presence of a hidden infectious focus. If you consult a doctor in time, you can avoid the development of undesirable consequences.

Treatment measures

To determine the cause of enlarged lymph nodes on the right or left side of the neck, diagnostic methods such as radiography, MRI and ultrasound are used. It is mandatory for the patient to take the OAC and OAM.

After the diagnosis is made, the doctor prescribes drug treatment, the effectiveness of which is aimed at eliminating the cause of the development of disorders in the body and eliminating symptoms. Competent therapy can stop the progression of the pathological process. If there are ulcers, there is a need for surgery.

If the lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged, complex treatment is prescribed:

• For bacterial and purulent processes, antibiotics are prescribed. The drug is based on the results of the tests and depending on the course of the disease, the condition of the body and the age of the patient. Among the most effective antibacterial drugs Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin, Amoxicillin and Sumamed should be highlighted. Please note that the course of treatment should be completed. Otherwise, the immune system is disrupted, which is fraught with the development of relapses.
• In case of a viral infection, there is a need to prescribe antiviral drugs: Anaferon, Arbidol and Ergoferon. Medicines stop the progression of the virus and promote the production of the body’s own interferon.
• In the presence of a tumor process, drugs such as Decarbazine, Thioguanine and Methotrexate are used. Their effectiveness is aimed at stopping the growth of formations and eliminating the likelihood of malignant degeneration.
• At autoimmune diseases there is a need to use immunostimulants. Among the most popular medicines Cyclosporin A and Tacrolimus should be highlighted. The drugs quickly restore the body's defenses and help the affected lymphatic structures recover.

If lymphadenitis is not treated on time, the inflammatory process progresses. In this case, the lymph nodes in the neck enlarge, and severe pain appears. To eliminate discomfort, painkillers are prescribed. When body temperature rises, it becomes necessary to take antipyretic medications.

cervical lymphadenitis

To increase the effectiveness of drug treatment, physiotherapy is prescribed. The most effective are galvanization, laser therapy and UHF. Physiotherapy increases the effectiveness of the drugs used and reduces the time of treatment. They not only improve lymph microcirculation, but also restore damaged cellular structures. Procedures that use heat are unacceptable in cases of tuberculous lymphadenitis and intoxication of the body.

Traditional therapy to help

Enlarged lymph nodes on the back and sides of the neck can be treated independently. Please note that traditional treatment can only be used at the initial stage of disease progression. Most often this approach is used to increase efficiency drug therapy. Before putting traditional recipes into practice, it is imperative to consult a doctor.

Among the most effective means For the treatment of enlarged lymph nodes, the following should be highlighted:

• Onion cake. Bake the onion with the peel, peel and chop. To enhance the effect, add 1 tsp. tar. The compress should be applied to the bump for 2-3 hours.
• Echinacea tincture. Buy a ready-made tincture at the pharmacy and add 40 drops to 100 ml of water. Stir and drink 3 times a day. The tincture is widely used for compresses.
• Celandine. Squeeze from leaves medicinal plant juice. Add 1 tbsp. l. per 100 ml of alcohol. Use for compresses.

If it is untimely or insufficient good treatment there are high risks of developing complications in the form of spread infectious process and the development of periadenitis. The possibility of thrombophlebitis and esophageal fistulas cannot be excluded. The formation of adenophlegmon often occurs.