The body cannot do without an antivirus, which protects us from infections and bacteria that are actively developing in the environment. Such an antivirus in the body is the lymph nodes that synthesize lymphocytes aimed at fighting the infection.
If a bacterium or microbe enters the body and begins to actively multiply and cause disturbances in the functioning of the body, the first ones to act in the way of protection – these are lymph nodes, so the inflammation of these "lumps" signals the fight against the virus. There are 150 lymph nodes in our body, evenly distributed among organs and systems.
Each lymph node has its own set of functions and organs that it protects. Therefore, when the node becomes inflamed, the organs are left without protection. In this case, treatment of enlarged lymph nodes should be taken immediately.
What is lymph and lymph node
Lymph nodes are grouped near the lymphatic vessels and belong to the body's defense system. Lymph flows through the lymph nodes, from the lymphatic vessels to the organs. The nodes serve as a barrier to the spread of infections. The lymph flowing from the organs contains aggressive agents (viruses, infections, bacteria), which, when they enter the lymph node, cause a reaction of the lymphatic system to fight these agents.
When the lymph node works on a response, it releases the necessary cells – lymphocytes, which fight the virus in the body, prevent the reproduction of bacteria and cancer cells.
Causes of the inflammatory process of the lymph nodes
When a certain group of lymph nodes becomes inflamed, it means that the body becomes infected, an inflammatory process occurs. When the body is actively fighting harmful elements, the lymph nodes are actively working and can increase in size, get sick if they cannot cope with the influx of agents.
Lymph nodes become inflamed and contribute to disruption of the whole organism, therefore, at the first signs of disruption of the lymphatic system, it is worth starting treatment for enlarged lymph nodes and the root cause of inflammation. When inflammation of the lymph nodes occurs, there is pain, the body temperature rises, the skin turns red – these are signs of lymphadenitis.
This disease can occur in an acute form with suppuration. In this case, the lymph node collects pus inside, which can lead to rupture and death. Therefore, the treatment of enlarged lymph nodes cannot be shelved.
Causes of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes:
- sinusitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis;
- diabetes mellitus, HIV infection;
- cervical injury;
- dental problems (tooth abscess);
- allergy;
- toxoplasmosis;
- oncological diseases (cancer of the larynx or tongue, thyroid cancer).
Causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the armpits:
- trophic ulcer;
- furuncle;
- thrombophlebitis;
- SARS;
- mastopathy;
- breast cancer, melanoma.
Causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the groin area
- syphilis;
- tuberculosis;
- plague;
- fungal diseases;
- eczema, psoriasis;
- skin cancer, melanoma;
- cancer of the rectum, duodenum, cancer of the genital organs in men and women.
Treatment of enlarged lymph nodes
If there is the slightest increase in the grouping of lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or in the groin area, it is necessary to consult a specialist to find out the cause of the inflammation and provide treatment for the enlarged lymph nodes. With symptoms of inflammation of the lymphatic system, self-treatment methods will only worsen the condition. Rubbing, massages, heating, lotions are not allowed.
At the appointment, the doctor examines the lymph node and sends for examination: X-ray, blood test, ultrasound, MRI, if necessary, advises to do a biopsy and puncture. After the diagnosis is clarified, the specialist prescribes antibiotic treatment to relieve the symptoms: enlargement and pain.
If the cause of an inflamed lymph node is in another disease, the underlying cause should be treated immediately. If treatment in the first days of lymphadenitis does not give any results, then lymphadenectomy is prescribed – surgical removal of lymph nodes.
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