Swollen lymph nodes is a condition in which the lymph nodes become enlarged due to a reaction to the large number of immune cells that the lymph nodes produce to fight substances that harm the body.
Lymph nodes are found in many parts of the body, including the:
- Armpit
- Chin
- behind the ear
- Neck
- Groin
- The back of the head
Symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes can occur in several parts of the body, such as the neck, nape or back of the neck, breasts, armpits, and groin. Swollen lymph nodes may or may not be accompanied by pain when touched or when making movements, for example when chewing food if there is swollen lymph nodes on the chin. Swollen lymph nodes can occur in anyone, both children and adults.
In addition to the appearance of lumps, swollen lymph nodes can also cause other symptoms. The symptoms in question include:
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Sweating at night
- Have a cold
- Sore throat
Immediately see a doctor if swollen lymph nodes are experienced:
- Appears for no apparent reason.
- It keeps getting bigger and has been going on for more than 2 weeks.
- Firm texture and does not move when shaken.
Go to the emergency department (ER) immediately if swollen lymph nodes cause difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Causes and Treatment of Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes can be triggered by infection, disease of the immune system or cancer. Therefore, the treatment will depend on the trigger itself.
Although sometimes it can recover without treatment, it is advisable to consult a doctor if symptoms of swollen lymph nodes appear. Sometimes, the characteristics of swollen lymph nodes due to infection or cancer can be similar to each other.
Treatment can be done with antibiotics, if caused by infection. If swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer, treatment may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery.