Lymph nodes are tiny organs that filter fluids from the lymphatic system.
Thesewhite blood cellshelp fight infection and disease.
The inflammation associated with the immune assault will cause the lymph nodes to swell.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Swollen lymph nodes often return to their normal size after your body fights off an infection.
The swelling may beacute(meaning sudden and severe) orchronic(meaning persistent).
These features can help your healthcare provider narrow the possible causes.
This is usually due to an infection somewhere in the body.
Bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections are common causes of swollen lymph nodes.
Autoimmune Causes
Swollen lymph nodes are common with certainautoimmune disorders.
These are diseases in which the immune system mistakenly attacks normal tissues with inflammation.
Medication Causes
Certain medications can also cause swollen lymph nodes.
In such cases, lymphadenopathy can be reversed if the drug can be stopped or substituted.
Swollen lymph nodes are rarely a sign of cancer.
Lymph nodes should return to normal within two to three weeks following an infection.
If the swelling doesnt go down or the lymph nodes still feel tender, see your healthcare provider.
You’ll be asked when your symptoms started and if the swelling was sudden or if it is persistent.
The location and accompanying symptoms can often provide clues as to the underlying cause.
While you receive medical treatment, you’re able to also try at-home remedies for symptoms.
The condition may be mild or severe, localized or generalized, acute or chronic.
These factors can help the healthcare provider narrow the possible causes.
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National Library of Medicine.Lymph node abscess.
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