Causes and Characteristics of Lymph Node Problems: What You Need to Know

KOMPAS.com – Lymph nodes are an important part of the body’s defense system in warding off various diseases.

Unfortunately, there are several factors that cause lymph node problems and weaken the body’s immune system.

For more details, identify the various triggers and characteristics of problematic lymph nodes that we need to be aware of.

Also read: Can Swollen Lymph Nodes Be Treated Without Surgery?

Causes of lymph node problems

Quoted from Health, lymph nodes are soft, round glands that can be found in several areas of the body, such as the armpits, neck, inside of the thighs, behind the ears, back of the head, under the jaw and chin.

The main benefit of lymph nodes is as part of the body’s immune system which can find and get rid of germs or viruses that cause disease.

Lymph nodes can swell or experience problems when dealing with certain conditions or diseases. Quoted from Medlineplus, here are some of them:

Infection is the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes or lymphadenopathy. Infections that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:

Abscess or impacted tooth Ear infections Colds and flu Gingivitis Mononucleosis (an infectious disease caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus Sores in the mouth, such as mouth ulcers Sexually transmitted diseases Tonsillitis or tonsillitis Tuberculosis or TB Skin infections.

Lymph nodes that suddenly have problems with symptoms of pain are usually caused by infection.

Also read: 3 Causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes

Immune disorders and autoimmune diseases characterized by swollen lymph nodes include HIV/AIDS and rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation of the joints that occurs due to autoimmune diseases).

Cancers that can cause swollen lymph nodes include leukemia or blood cancer, as well as Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancers which attack the lymphatic system. The characteristics of swollen lymph nodes due to cancer or tumors are usually slow to enlarge and do not cause pain.

Some drugs have the side effect of triggering swollen lymph nodes, including anti-seizure drugs such as phenytoin, and side effects of the typhoid vaccine.

Also read: 4 Ways to Treat Lymphadenitis When the Lymph Nodes Are Swollen

Characteristics of problematic lymph nodes

Quoted from WebMd, here are the characteristics of problematic lymph nodes that you need to watch out for:

Swollen lymph nodes, ranging from the size of a kidney bean to the size of a golf ball in the armpits, neck, inner thighs, behind the ears, back of the head, under the jaw, or chin Lymph nodes feel sore or tender, especially when pressed Frequent colds or coughs Pain Throat Often has fever. Lymph nodes feel hard, cannot be moved, or enlarge rapidly.

After listening to the explanation regarding the causes of problematic lymph nodes and their characteristics, you can increase your awareness regarding this health problem. If you experience this health problem, immediately consult a doctor.

Also read: 6 Characteristics of Swollen Clear Gums to Watch Out for

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2023-10-27 13:01:00
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