The Body’s Virus Protection
Every day, some viruses could harm a computer. That’s why most machines come built-in with virus protection to screen and eliminate threats. The body works the same way. All over the body lies the lymphatic system, a series of organs, vessels, and nodes. This system is dedicated to trapping and eliminating bacteria and viruses. Lymph nodes are located in the head, neck, armpit, and groin areas. If these nodes become swollen, there could be an underlying issue or infection.
Where the action happens
Lymph nodes in the neck are the most common to appear swollen due to infections. Most viruses and bacteria enter through the nose and mouth. So these neck glands will get the first crack at fighting the intruders. Swollen neck glands are often a sign that the lymphatic system is hard at work. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, coughing, and chills. These are just 3 of many reasons behind enlarged lymph nodes.
1. The case of the common cold
The common cold or flu are two of the main reasons for swollen neck glands. Adults get the cold 4-6 times per year on average. Common symptoms include coughing, sneezing, fatigue, excess mucus, and sore throat. However, there are times where the neck glands become enlarged. Swollen lymph nodes mean the lymphatic system is hard at work to fight the unwanted virus. These could remain swollen throughout the flu, returning to normal in a few weeks. The cold is not the only infection to cause this reaction. Tonsilitis, sinusitis, strep throat, tooth infections, and mononucleosis can cause swollen glands.
2. Waging war on the body
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. So there would be a reaction if there is an immune disorder at play. An autoimmune disease is a circumstance where the immune system starts attacking the body’s cells. Some of these diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, and sarcoidosis. Signs of an autoimmune disease can cause lymph nodes to become enlarged.
3. The overwhelming cause of swollen neck glands
Stress and anxiety create a host of emotional and physical reactions. Add enlarged neck glands to the list. While stress is not the exact reason for enlarged lymph, too much psychological pressure can be the catalyst. Persons experiencing stress and anxiety may have a weaker immune system. That means the lymph nodes work a bit harder to repel viruses.
Do any of these signs ring a bell?
Discovering an enlarged neck gland is reason enough to see a doctor. Is the enlarged gland accompanied by fever, pains, or changes in weight? Then schedule a visit with an ENT. If the swollen gland becomes too large, painful to touch, and won’t go down, seek medical help immediately. The reason could be stress, an infection, or one of several other causes, including possible cancer. Better to be safe than sorry.
Don’t ignore the bump
Swollen lymph nodes are the body’s alarm bells that something’s wrong. In most cases, this is just the glands hard at work, keeping the body safe from infection. At the same time, the swollen gland could be the sign of a deeper concern. Seek advice from an ENT who is skilled in identifying and treating the underlying cause.
Recent Posts
Outpatient Surgery vs Inpatient Stay: Understanding The Advantages Of Same-Day Care
During elective and cosmetic surgery, most patients have the option of outpatient surgery and inpatient stay. Explore the amazing advantages of same-day care.
Rotator Cuff Repair: Restoring Shoulder Function & Relieving Pain
A torn rotator cuff can benefit from rotator cuff repair. Minimally invasive surgery and therapy can restore shoulder function and relieve pain.
Ask The Anesthesiologist: Answers To Your Questions About Pain Management During Surgery
Patients can prepare for a successful surgery by selecting the right pain management options. Effectively manage post-surgery pain to ensure a smooth recovery.
RFA vs Traditional Surgery: Choosing The Right Approach For Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain management requires immediate long-term intervention. Surgery and RFA are fantastic options, but which approach is better?
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
Recent Posts
Outpatient Surgery vs Inpatient Stay: Understanding The Advantages Of Same-Day Care
During elective and cosmetic surgery, most patients have the option of outpatient surgery and inpatient stay. Explore the amazing advantages of same-day care.
Rotator Cuff Repair: Restoring Shoulder Function & Relieving Pain
A torn rotator cuff can benefit from rotator cuff repair. Minimally invasive surgery and therapy can restore shoulder function and relieve pain.
Ask The Anesthesiologist: Answers To Your Questions About Pain Management During Surgery
Patients can prepare for a successful surgery by selecting the right pain management options. Effectively manage post-surgery pain to ensure a smooth recovery.
RFA vs Traditional Surgery: Choosing The Right Approach For Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain management requires immediate long-term intervention. Surgery and RFA are fantastic options, but which approach is better?
