Causes
The reason most common for swollen glands in the neck is some type of infection, normally a infection by a virus for instance the common cold. But, there are additional kinds of infections such as bacterial as well as parasitic and other probable reasons for swollen glands. They consist of:
Infections – Common
- Ear infections
- Strep throat
- Mononucleosis
- Measles
- Infected or abscessed tooth
- HIV – the virus which causes AIDS
- Wound infections such as cellulitis or erysipelas
Infections – Uncommon
- Tuberculosis
- Cat scratch fever
- Toxoplasmosis
Immune system disorders
- Lupus
- HIV
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Cancers
- Lymphoma
- Leukemia
- Other cancers which have metastasized
Complications
If the reason for swollen neck lymphatic nodes is infection and is not treated, these are the complications that could ensue:
Formation of Abscess
Abscesses are a collection localized of pus triggered by some sort of infection. This pus contains white cells, tissue that is dead, fluid as well as bacteria or other intruders. The abscess requires antibiotic treatment and drainage. An abscess can cause destruction if it comprises an organ that is vital.
Infection of the blood system or bacteremia
Bacterial infections anyplace in the body can cause sepsis, causing an overpowering infection of the blood system. Sepsis can cause failure to organs and then even death. Management involves hospitalization as well as IV antibiotics.
Treatment
In order to diagnose the cause of the swollen lymph nodes in the neck the physician may need:
Complete medical history
Physical exam
The physician will need to check the nodes that are close to the surface for tenderness, size, texture as well as warmth. Other symptoms and signs will give the doctor clues as to help diagnose of underlying cause.
Blood tests
Certain blood test can be done to exclude or confirm underlying conditions. This will most likely include total blood count which helps to assess the individual’s complete health and can distinguish a variety of illnesses, for instance mononucleosis as well as leukemia.
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Studies by Imaging
X-ray of the chest or CT scan can help to decide on possible causes of infection or discover any tumors.
Lymphatic node biopsy
If a diagnosis cannot be decided on, the physician can take out a section of the lymphatic node for examination under the microscope.
Swollen lymphatic nodes in the neck triggered by a virus can go back to normal as soon as the viral contagion gets better. Viral infections cannot be treated by antibiotics. Treatment for other sources is determined by the cause which could be:
Infection
The common management for swollen lymphatic nodes that are triggered with a bacterial contagion is antibiotics. Fever reducers as well as pain relievers over-the-counter include aspirin, ibuprofen, for instance Advil, Motrin and acetaminophen, such as Tylenol. Aspirin as well as ibuprofen have properties for anti-inflammation that can reduce various swelling.
It is advised that children not be given aspirin due to the link to Reye’s syndrome. This is a rare and very serious disease that can disturb teenagers and children recovering from any infections that are viral.
Disorders of Immunity
If the swollen neck glands are caused by situations such as lupus, HIV or rheumatoid arthritis, management is focused at the underlying disorder.
Cancer
Swollen neck glands triggered by cancer need the cancer to be treated. Contingent on the kind of cancer, therapy usually involves surgery, chemotherapy or radiation.
Swollen Glands in Neck Pictures
