Swollen Lymph Nodes – Is It Serious?

Swelling in the lymph nodes is very common, and if this ever happens to you, don’t worry or be nervous. In 80% of cases, the swelling is the result of a simple inflammation, and sometimes when your body is in a slightly weak condition, it may start to accumulate tissue fluid (lymph fluid). This then results in swelling in the lymph nodes.

So stay calm and make an appointment with your doctor to make sure it’s not anything more serious. In this article, we’ll tell you more about a phenomenon called lymph node swelling – you’ll find out what its symptoms are and what it might cause. This is a very common dilemma, so don’t worry in vain!

1. What is the role of the lymph nodes in the body?

You can think of your lymphatic system as a complex network that covers your entire body – so it’s comparable to your blood vessels. It is made up of lymphocytes and is designed to defend your body as well as keep your immune system in order.

This means that your lymphatic system gets rid of toxic substances, pathogens and microbes, or any such harmful substances that can cause illness.

The lymph nodes are bean-shaped and are located in the neck, clavicle area, armpits, internal organs and branches. They are usually about one and a half inches long, and if they are not swollen, we usually don’t even remember they exist.

2. Why do lymph nodes sometimes swell?

You may find that after a particularly bad flu, there is a swollen lymph node in your neck or neck. The flu is the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes. Or maybe you’re in the shower and suddenly find a little bump in your armpit.

In that case, we must first calm down and focus on the fact that this is a very common phenomenon. Although there is no automatic cause for concern, it would still be necessary to contact a doctor to make sure that there is no more serious situation.

Next, we will tell you the reasons that can cause lymph nodes to swell.

• If you have a cold and your resistance has weakened.
• You may find this surprising, but dental inflammation can also be a cause of swollen lymph nodes. So it is very important to take good care of your dental hygiene for this reason too!

• Also be careful with ear infections. If you have a really bad ear infection, that too can be the cause of swollen lymph nodes.
• Oral ulcers are one such inflammation that should be kept in mind in connection with this problem.
• Some diseases, such as tuberculosis or tonsillitis, can cause the lymph nodes to swell.
• Immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis can also cause this phenomenon.
• Be careful with the product information for your medicine, as some possible side effects may include swelling of the lymph nodes.
• Leukemia is also one possible cause that should not be overlooked, although it is much less likely.
• The swollen lymph node may also be the result of lymphoma unrelated to Hodgkin’s disease. These are very common types of cancer, and it is important to remember that their recovery rate is quite high.

3. Symptoms of a swollen lymph node

In general, such swollen areas in your body are very easy to notice, but you should be aware of all of their symptoms so that you can stay calm. So if you notice a swollen lymph node in your body, first contact your doctor so that the matter can be clarified properly.

• If you notice a swollen bang in the clavicle area, armpit, or crotch, it may be a swollen lymph node. Here we would like to remind you that if you find this bang on your clavicle, it may be something more serious, so you should contact your doctor immediately. It may be that the symptom is related to Hodgkin’s disease, but keep in mind that if this disease is treated properly, it can usually be cured.

• The swollen lymph node usually presents with a mild fever. You may also find yourself sweating at night.
• Sometimes swelling of the lymph nodes can cause pain, which can of course be even more worrying.

4. Can swelling of the lymph nodes be prevented?

As we often repeat in our articles, there is no guaranteed way to protect against much of the disease. And when it comes to swollen lymph nodes, the most important thing is to remember to keep your immune system in order. So take a look at the following tips to help you improve your immunity and thus also avoid swelling of your lymph nodes.

• Increase the amount of vitamin C you get with food: you can either drink fresh juice squeezed from oranges, lemons and grapefruits, for example, or you can eat delicious salads with fruits like strawberries, kiwi and papaya. Awesome and tasty way to improve your resistance!

• Also remember vitamin E: you should get this vitamin to get green leafy vegetables like spinach, as well as whole grains like oats, wheat, barley and brewer’s yeast. Also try to eat more nuts.
• Increase the amount of iron, selenium and zinc your body gets : lean meats, legumes, pumpkin, salmon and olive oil are all products that get a lot of the minerals your body needs to keep itself strong.
• Always try to keep your stress levels low: when your body has large amounts of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, these toxins begin to interfere with the normal functioning of your immune system, and this has a detrimental effect on your overall health. So keep your stress levels as low as possible, as this will essentially help your body fight disease. Also take care of your feelings – your health is worth all this!

Now that you know the basics of swollen lymph nodes, you won’t have to worry dramatically in vain if you notice this phenomenon in your own body. But as we have already advised, always go to the doctor for safety to get clarity!