Other possible but rare causes include certain medications, such as the anti-seizure medication phenytoin Dilantin and preventive medications for malaria. If infection is the cause of your swollen lymph nodes and isn't treated, an abscess may form. Abscesses are localized collections of pus caused by infections.
Pus contains fluid, white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria or other invaders. An abscess may require drainage and antibiotic treatment. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Lymph node locations Open pop-up dialog box Close. Lymph node locations Your lymph nodes play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off infections.
Swollen lymph nodes Open pop-up dialog box Close. Swollen lymph nodes One of the most common places to find swollen lymph nodes is in the neck. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Fletcher RH. Evaluation of peripheral lymphadenopathy in adults. Accessed Sept. Jameson JL, et al. Delaying treatment gives the cancer time to grow and get worse.
Swollen lymph nodes can be alarming, especially if the cause of the swelling is unclear. People who have HIV or AIDS , who take immune system-suppressing drugs, or whose doctors have told them they have a weak immune system, should call the doctor if their lymph nodes swell. For most people, it is safe to wait for 1—2 weeks to see if symptoms go away.
See a doctor within a day or two if any of the following occur:. If a person has no signs of an infection, a swollen lymph node might be a sign that the body has successfully fought off an infection. It is safe to wait for about 2 weeks to see if the swelling decreases. If the swelling does not go away, or if the lymph node is hard or larger than 1. Lymph nodes swell for many reasons, most of which are relatively harmless.
A doctor can help with determining whether a person has a serious infection that warrants treatment, as well as assessing for other potential causes of reactive lymph nodes. Sometimes lymph nodes remain swollen long after an infection has disappeared. As long as the lymph node does not change or become hard, this is not typically a sign of a problem.
If a person notices that a lymph nodes changes, hardens, or grows very large, they should see a doctor. Swollen lymph nodes usually indicate a temporary infection, but they can also be a sign of some medical conditions, including certain immune disorders…. Adenopathy is any disease or inflammation that involves glandular tissue or lymph nodes. Learn about what causes swollen lymph nodes.
A lump under the chin may be hard or soft, and tender or painless. This is not always a cause for concern. Learn about causes and when to see a doctor. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. With about nodes and a vast network of vessels penetrating nearly every tissue, the lymphatic…. What to know about reactive lymph nodes. Medically reviewed by Elaine K.
They usually get better by themselves within 2 weeks. Glands known as lymph glands or lymph nodes swell near an infection to help your body fight it. They can arrange a phone call from a nurse or doctor if you need one. Go to A GP will be able to recommend treatment depending on the cause, which might include antibiotics antibiotics do not work on viral infections.
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