What happens within a lymph node after sore throat?

After a sore throat, the lymph nodes in the neck may become swollen and tender as part of the body's immune response. Here's what typically happens within a lymph node after a sore throat:

1. Activation: When a sore throat occurs, it is often caused by an infection such as a virus or bacteria. The infection triggers an immune response in the body, including the activation of lymph nodes.

2. Trapping of Antigens: Lymph nodes act as filters, trapping antigens or foreign substances, such as bacteria or viruses, from the infected area. These antigens are carried to the lymph nodes by lymph fluid.

3. Immune Cell Proliferation: Once the antigens reach the lymph node, they are presented to immune cells, including B-cells and T-cells. B-cells produce antibodies that specifically target the invading pathogen, while T-cells help eliminate infected cells.

4. Enlargement and Tenderness: As immune cells proliferate and become active within the lymph node, it swells in size. This enlargement can cause the lymph node to become tender and palpable.

5. Germinal Center Formation: Within the lymph node, specialized structures called germinal centers form. These centers are where B-cells undergo rapid division and differentiation, producing plasma cells that secrete antibodies and memory cells that provide long-term immunity against the specific pathogen.

6. Filtering of Waste: As the immune response occurs, waste products and cellular debris are filtered within the lymph node. Macrophages, which are immune cells, engulf and destroy foreign particles and dead cells.

7. Return to Normal: Once the infection is cleared and the immune response subsides, the lymph node gradually returns to its normal size and tenderness resolves.

It's important to note that persistent or significantly enlarged lymph nodes after a sore throat should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions.