There are a number of causes of swollen lymph glands. The most common cause is infection. See your doctor if you have swollen lymph glands and you do not know why they have swollen, or if swollen lymph glands caused by an infection do not go down again within two weeks. Show
What are swollen glands?Dr Sarah Jarvis MBEWhat are lymph glands?Detail of lymph gland names Small lymph glands (sometimes called lymph nodes) occur throughout the body. Lymph glands that are near each other often form into groups or chains. Examples of where lymph glands group together are the sides of the neck, the armpits and the groins. The diagram shows the main groups of lymph glands in the head and neck. However, lymph glands occur in many other places in the body. Lymph glands are joined together by a network of lymph channels. Lymph is a fluid that forms between the cells of the body. This watery fluid travels in the lymph channels, through various lymph glands, and eventually drains into the bloodstream. Lymph and lymph glands are major parts of the immune system. They contain white blood cells (lymphocytes) and antibodies that defend the body against infection. What causes swollen lymph glands?Lymph glands are normally pea-sized. You can sometimes feel them as lumps under the skin. People often feel their lymph glands in the neck. Lymph glands under the skin become more noticeable and easier to feel if they swell. They can swell to the size of marbles or even bigger. You cannot see or feel lymph glands that are deeper in the chest or tummy (abdomen) but they may be uncomfortable or tender. Causes of swollen lymph glands include the following: Infection - the common causeThe lymph glands near to an infection swell quickly and become tender as the immune system 'fights off' infecting germs (bacteria, viruses, etc). The lymph glands usually go back to their normal pea size when the infection is over. It can take a week or so for them gradually to go back to normal after the infection. Examples of infections include the following:
Cancers, lymphomas and leukaemias - the less common causesSome cells from a cancer can break off and spread (metastasise) to nearby lymph glands via the lymph channels. These cancer cells then grow and multiply in the lymph glands and cause the glands to swell. For example:
As a rule, swollen lymph glands due to cancers, lymphomas and leukaemias develop more slowly than those due to infections. They also tend to be painless at first. Other less common causesRarely, swollen lymph glands can be due to causes such as:
What is the treatment for swollen lymph glands?The treatment depends on the cause. Swollen lymph glands are like a marker of various conditions, all with different outlooks and treatments. So, for example, the common cause is due to a viral infection. In this case no specific treatment may be advised and the lymph glands will normally go back to normal after a week or so. However, swollen lymph glands caused by a cancer, lymphoma or leukaemia may need extensive treatment. What should I do if I find swollen lymph glands?Swollen lymph glands due to viral infections are common. For example, swelling of neck lymph glands may go up and down if you have frequent throat infections. This is of little concern. However, you should see your doctor if your lymph glands have not gone down after two weeks. Swollen lymph glands are more of a concern if there is no apparent reason for them to swell. Tell your doctor if:
What does a swollen lymph node on back of neck mean?Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of infection from bacteria or viruses. Rarely, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer. Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off infections.
Where is lymph node in back of neck?Cervical lymph nodes are located in the sides and back of the neck. These glands are usually very small. However, when a lymph node is greater than 1 centimeter in diameter, it is enlarged. The cervical lymph nodes sit deep inside the neck.
What does a cancerous lump on the back of neck feel like?Cancerous lumps are typically hard and often pain-free in the early stages, starting up deeper in the body. Lumps that are associated with growths or sores in your mouth are also worrisome, as is any lump accompanying throat problems, such as hoarseness or trouble swallowing.
What does a lump mean on the back of your neck?Summary. Lumps or bumps near the hairline at the back of the neck are usually not a cause for concern. Possible causes of lumps in this area can include acne, muscle knots, boils, and skin irritation. Speak to a doctor for lumps that are painful, do not go away after a few days, or accompany other concerning symptoms.
How do you get rid of swollen lymph nodes in back of neck?If your swollen lymph nodes are tender or painful, you might get some relief by doing the following:. Apply a warm compress. Apply a warm, wet compress, such as a washcloth dipped in hot water and wrung out, to the affected area.. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. ... . Get adequate rest.. When should I worry about a lump behind my neck?Remember that lumps can appear anywhere on your body - not just your neck - and usually they're harmless. If you're particularly worried about a lump on your neck or the lump hasn't gone away after 2 weeks, always get it checked by a doctor.
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Are there lymph nodes in the back of your neck
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