Enlarged Lymph Nodes

Enlarged lymph nodes, or “lymphadenopathy,” can be a symptom of several underlying conditions. Southern ENT Associates provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment options for enlarged lymph nodes, ensuring personalized care and effective management for patients of all ages.

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doctor checking for enlarged lymph nodes

What Are Enlarged Lymph Nodes?

Enlarged lymph nodes occur when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, become activated in response to infection, inflammation, or other immune system reactions. These nodes, distributed throughout the body, may swell and become tender or painful to the touch due to increased activity.

What Causes Enlarged Lymph Nodes?

Infection:

Common causes include viral or bacterial infections such as colds, flu, strep throat, or mononucleosis.

Inflammation:

Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease can lead to lymph node enlargement.

Cancer:

Lymphoma, leukemia, or metastatic cancer from other parts of the body may involve lymph nodes and cause them to swell.

Immune System Disorders:

Disorders like HIV/AIDS or autoimmune diseases can result in lymph node enlargement as the immune system responds.

Where Are the Lymph Nodes on the Head and Neck, and What Do They Do?

Lymph glands, also known as lymph nodes, are a vital part of the body’s immune system, acting as filters that trap and destroy harmful substances like bacteria and viruses. In the head and neck region, lymph nodes are strategically located to protect against infections and diseases affecting these areas. They can be found in various locations, including:

Behind the ears (postauricular lymph nodes)
At the base of the skull (occipital lymph nodes)
Along the sides of the neck (cervical lymph nodes)
Under the chin (submandibular lymph nodes)
In front of the ears (preauricular lymph nodes)
Near the angle of the jaw (parotid lymph nodes)
In the back of the throat (tonsillar or jugulodigastric lymph nodes)

These lymph nodes work together to help the body recognize and combat infections, inflammation, and other abnormalities in the head and neck region. When the lymph nodes become enlarged or tender, it may indicate an immune response to an infection or other health condition. It is crucial to have your condition evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT).

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common signs and symptoms may include:

Swelling or enlargement of one or more lymph nodes may be noticeable and tender to the touch.
Pain or discomfort in the affected area, especially when pressing the swollen lymph nodes.
Redness or warmth over the area of the swollen lymph nodes.
Fever or chills, particularly if the enlargement is due to an infection.
Fatigue or malaise can occur with systemic infections or inflammatory conditions.
Other symptoms related to the underlying cause, such as sore throat, runny nose, cough, or rash in the case of an infection, or unexplained weight loss and night sweats in the case of cancer.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you notice persistent or concerning symptoms of enlarged lymph nodes, as they can indicate various health conditions that require proper evaluation and treatment.

Southern ENT Associates: State-of-the-Art Diagnostics

Southern ENT Associates offers thorough diagnostic evaluations for enlarged lymph nodes, including physical examinations, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans, and biopsy procedures if necessary. Our specialists carefully assess each patient’s medical history and symptoms to determine the underlying cause accurately.

How Are Enlarged Lymph Nodes Treated?

Treatment for enlarged lymph nodes will reflect the underlying cause:

Infection Management:

Antibiotics, antiviral medications, or other treatments may be prescribed to address underlying infections.

Anti-inflammatory Medications:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

Monitoring:

For benign causes, such as reactive lymphadenopathy, careful monitoring may be recommended to ensure the nodes return to normal size over time.

Specialized Care:

In cases of cancer or other serious conditions, Southern ENT Associates provides comprehensive care, including collaboration with oncologists or other specialists for advanced treatment options.

Why Choose Southern ENT Associates?

At Southern ENT Associates, we understand the concerns and uncertainties of enlarged lymph nodes. Our experienced team of ENT specialists offers compassionate care and personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. With state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities and a commitment to excellence, we strive to provide the highest quality care and support in the entire healthcare journey.