In addition to the system of arteries and veins, in the human body there is also a network of lymphatic vessels. They permeate every organ and every cell of the body. Of course, the study of the properties and functions of the lymphatic system has not yet been thoroughly carried out, but today it is clear that its main task is to protect the body from the effects of foreign aggressors, such as viruses, bacteria, tumor cells and so on.
By circulating through the lymphatic vessels, the lymph washes all organs and tissues and thereby removes excess fluid, toxins and foreign substances. All of them fall into the lymph nodes, which are a kind of roadblocks that are located in extremely important parts of the body. So, the lymph node on the neck, as well as in the groin, in the armpit, in the chest and abdomen, knee and elbow bends is very significant.
The lymph node by its nature is a kind of filter that delays everything that can bring some harm to the body. It constantly produces cells (lymphocytes) that attack and destroy foreign substances. And such a struggle goes on endlessly, just a person does not see it and does not notice it.
But in the case of a massive attack of bacteria or viruses, for example, with angina or flu, the lymph node on the neck is forced to work literally at the limit of its capabilities to prevent the spread of the disease. This leads to the production of more lymphocytes. And as a result - an increase in the node in size. In addition, it becomes hard and painful to the touch.
That is why the compaction and enlargement of the lymph nodes should alert, as this can serve as a signal of creeping diseases, starting relatively innocent and ending with formidable ailments. In their usual state, the lymph nodes are somewhat soft and smooth.
The lymph node on the neck can become inflamed with diseases of the organs of the oral cavity (teeth, tongue, gums), nasopharynx, thyroid gland, or with an ear infection. Due to their compaction, the lymph nodes cause pain in the neck. And their growth in size indicates the presence of any infection in the body.
Most often, the lymph nodes increase directly on the back of the neck. As a rule, the lymph node in the neck should return to its normal size within two to three weeks after the illness. But if this did not happen, you should definitely contact an experienced specialist.
For quite some time, it was believed that the appendix and tonsils are a kind of atavism that does not bring any benefit to the body. That is why 20-30 years ago they were recommended to be removed as a preventive measure for children to avoid appendicitis and tonsillitis.
But recent studies have shown that the appendix, like tonsils, consists of lymphoid tissue, which is simply necessary for the body to function properly. And their removal without extreme need only weakens the body's defense.
It should be noted that the adult lymphoid system is different from the children's. Therefore, an increase in lymph nodes in the neck in children is observed much more often. But they come back to normal a little longer. But this does not mean at all that children's lymph nodes can be ignored.
Mostly, in the neck, the lymph nodes in children increase with colds or infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. Also, this kind of swelling can occur with tooth disease, a viral or bacterial infection of the sinuses of the nose or ear.
In addition, the enlargement of the lymph nodes in the neck of a child can be caused by an infection that was introduced into the wound (for example, through a scratch received from a cat). In any case, any change must be carefully monitored. After all, when the lymph nodes on the neck are normal, they are elastic and mobile. And with an increase - dense and painful. Watch the appearance and size of the lymph nodes, because they stand for the protection of health!