Swollen glands in the neck – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Causes:

• Viral Infections: Common colds, flu, mononucleosis, and other viral infections are frequent causes of swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
• Bacterial Infections: Strep throat, ear infections, sinus infections, and other bacterial infections can also cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Strep Throat: A bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils.
• Ear Infections: Infections in the middle ear.
• Sinus Infections: Infections in the sinuses.
• Mononucleosis: A viral illness often causing fatigue, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
• Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils.
• Dental Infections: Infections in the teeth or gums.
• Other Infections: Less common infections, such as tuberculosis or HIV, can also cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Some autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause swollen lymph nodes.
• Cancer: Lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system) or other cancers can sometimes cause swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Diagnosis:

• Physical Exam: Careful examination of the neck, noting the size, location, and tenderness of the swollen lymph nodes. The doctor will also examine the ears, nose, throat, and other areas.
• Patient History: Gathering information about any other symptoms (such as sore throat, fever, fatigue), recent illnesses, and relevant medical history.
• Blood Tests: May be done to check for infection or other underlying conditions.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy of a lymph node may be necessary to determine the cause of the swelling.

Treatment:

• Viral Infections: Usually resolve on their own with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Bacterial Infections: Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
• Other Infections: Treatment will depend on the specific infection.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Treatment will depend on the specific autoimmune disease and may involve medications to suppress the immune system.
• Cancer: Treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer and may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Important Considerations:

• Most swollen lymph nodes are benign and will resolve on their own within a few weeks.
• Consult a healthcare professional if the swollen lymph nodes are large, hard, fixed (don’t move), or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever, weight loss, night sweats, or persistent fatigue.
• If the swelling persists for more than a few weeks without any other symptoms, it’s also important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Don’t delay seeking medical advice for persistent or concerning lymph node swelling.