What is the significance of swollen lymph nodes

If a person has impetigo, they should seek medical attention to address their symptoms and prevent the condition from spreading to others. Ringworm , or jock itch, is a fungal infection that can affect many areas of the body. If the fungus develops in the groin, a person may experience lymph node swelling in that area.

Typically, ringworm starts as a fungal lesion. The fungus often transmits when people share towels or razors. Ringworm thrives in moist environments, and therefore a person should take care to dry thoroughly after a wash and try not to stay in damp clothes. The best way to prevent ringworm is to wear breathable fabrics, avoid sharing towels and razors, and dry thoroughly after bathing. Learn more about swollen lymph nodes in the groin here.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma occurs when cancer cells spread from one cluster of lymph nodes to another. By contrast, in non-Hodgkin lymphoma, there is no order in how cancer cells spread throughout the lymphatic system. These are also common symptoms of viral infections, which can make lymphoma hard to diagnose.

However, in people with lymphoma, symptoms tend to persist for longer periods of time. It is of note that these symptoms do not clearly indicate cancer. If a person experiences any of these, they should contact a doctor to identify the cause of their symptoms. Treatment options for lymphoma include :. A person should contact a healthcare professional if they are experiencing persistent swelling of lymph nodes.

Swelling usually indicates an infection, and therefore a person should not immediately worry about lymphoma. Lymph nodes are a part of the lymphatic system. They filter lymph, which contains pathogens and damaged cells, and send the dead cells to the kidneys and liver. Lymph node swelling usually results from an infection. In rare cases, however, it may be due to lymphoma. If a person is concerned about swelling and other symptoms they have, they should contact a doctor. Lymphoma is a cancer that starts in the white blood cells This article looks at the two main types: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, as well….

The cervical lymph nodes are tiny glands located in the sides and back of the neck. These glands can become swollen. In this article, learn why this…. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. With about nodes and a vast network of vessels penetrating nearly every tissue, the lymphatic…. When health conditions cause a buildup of lymph fluid, people can use lymphatic drainage massage to get this fluid moving. When cancer from one area spreads to the lymph nodes, survival rate decreases.

Lymphoma , which is a cancer of the lymphatic system, also causes the lymph nodes to swell. They can often be felt simply by running your hand over your neck just below your jawline. They may be tender as well. This information is vital in helping them determine the cause of your symptoms. The doctor will also ask you about your medical history.

Since certain diseases or medications can cause swollen lymph nodes, giving your medical history helps them find a diagnosis. After the physical examination, blood tests may be ordered to check for certain diseases. If necessary, the doctor may order an imaging test to further evaluate the lymph node or other areas of your body that may have caused the lymph node to swell. Common imaging tests used to check lymph nodes include:. If the above tests suggest the need for further evaluation, the doctor may order an MRI.

In certain cases, even further testing may be needed following the MRI. In this case, the doctor may order a lymph node biopsy. This is a minimally invasive test that consists of using thin, needle-like tools to remove a sample of cells from the lymph node. Swollen lymph nodes may become smaller on their own without any treatment.

In some cases, the doctor may wish to monitor them without treatment. In the case of an infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics or antiviral medications to eliminate the condition responsible for the swollen lymph nodes.

Your doctor might also recommend medications such as acetaminophen Tylenol and ibuprofen Advil, Motrin to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Swollen lymph nodes caused by cancer may not shrink back to their normal size until the cancer is treated. Cancer treatment may involve removing the tumor or any affected lymph nodes. It may also involve chemotherapy to shrink the tumor. The only way to prevent swollen lymph nodes is to prevent the conditions that may cause them.

Some steps you can take are below:. If you experience any of the symptoms that sometimes accompany swollen lymph nodes, or if you have painful swollen lymph nodes and no other symptoms, talk with a doctor. Inside lymph nodes are a combination of different types of immune system cells. These specialized cells filter your lymphatic fluid as it travels through your body and protect you by destroying invaders.

Lymph nodes are located in groups, and each group drains a specific area of your body. You may be more likely to notice swelling in certain areas, such as in the lymph nodes in your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin. The site of the swollen lymph nodes may help identify the underlying cause.

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is an infection, particularly a viral infection, such as the common cold. Other possible causes of swollen lymph nodes include:. Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin Dilantin and preventive medications for malaria. If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn't treated, an abscess may form.

Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections. Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Lymph node locations Open pop-up dialog box Close. Lymph node locations Your lymph nodes play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off infections.

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