Why Does a Lymph Node Swell During Infection?

Lymph nodes are present throughout the body. Occasionally, these lymph nodes can swell and become tender. Infection is the most common cause of lymph node swelling. The lymph nodes' primary purpose is to fight off infections.

Identification

• Your lymph nodes are located behind the ears, the armpit, the neck, the groin, under the jaw and chin, and on the back of the head. The main purpose for lymph nodes is to fight infection and foreign substances.

Types

• The most common cause of lymph node swelling is infection somewhere in the body. Infections that may cause swelling of the lymph nodes are ear infections, abscess, colds or flu, gingivitis, mononucleosis, mouth sores, sexually transmitted diseases, tonsillitis, skin infections and tuberculosis.

Considerations

• The swelling of lymph nodes occurs as the body's response to infection. Inflammation from the infection causes the lymph nodes to become swollen and tender. The glands that are swollen usually are near the site of the infection.

Treatment

• Swollen lymph nodes from an infection usually are treated with antibiotics, pain medication, anti-inflammatory medications to control swelling, and cool compresses to reduce swelling. If there is any abscess of the swollen lymph node, surgery may be necessary to drain the infection.

Warning

• While infection is the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes, there are other medical conditions that may cause the same symptoms. Some of these conditions include such cancer as Hodgkin's disease. Other causes can be the use of certain medications. Consult your doctor to obtain a correct diagnosis and treatment plan.