How to Relieve Lymph Node Pain

The lymphatic system is your body's defense system against infection and disease. The system transports a special fluid called lymph throughout the body. All 600 or so lymph nodes are hubs for immune system function. When your body has a need to combat an infection, lymph nodes enlarge. This enlargement may cause pain. Understanding what has caused the pain is important for treatment. It could be infection, disease, tooth problems, insect bites, injury or chronic fatigue syndrome, according to Native Remedies.com. If the pain and swelling do not resolve within several days, consult a medical professional for a complete diagnosis.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter pain reliever
• Washcloth

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Instructions

Relieving Lymph Node Pain

• 1

  Take appropriate medication. Mayo Clinic recommends that adults take a pain reliever like aspirin (over the counter) to relieve symptoms. This is not advised for children. If you suspect that the infection may be bacterial, then an antibiotic may be needed to completely clear the cause. If the inflammation is the source of the pain, your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory. Pain relievers will manage symptoms, but not address the cause of the pain.

• 2

  Apply a warm compress to the painful area. The lymph nodes in your neck, armpits and groin are most prominent and are often the culprits. You can soak a washcloth in hot water, wring out excess water and apply to the lymph nodes that hurt. Re-soak the washcloth when it begins to cool off. Apply the compress until the pain subsides. Repeat the process as needed.

• 3

  Get a lymph drainage therapy treatment. Massage therapy can stimulate the lymphatic system. Since this system has no natural pump, certain techniques can get lymph and toxins moving instead of remaining stagnant. Those with chronic painful lymph nodes due to lymphedema can benefit from these techniques. According to massagetherapy.com, pregnancy, breast tissue engorgement, breast cancer and even eczema, causing lymph node tenderness, might be relieved with lymph drainage therapy massage. Learn self-massage techniques if you would like to use this treatment regularly.

• 4

  Slow down and rest. Swollen and painful glands mean your body is taking care of an infection. Getting enough rest will aid your immune system. If you do too much, an infection can linger or progressively get worse.