As you know, the lymph nodes in the body are laid from birth. In young children, determining them is usually quite problematic, because they are soft and small. However, sometimes the nodules increase in size. Many parents do not know what to do if the lymph node becomes inflamed, and what this phenomenon may indicate.
This disease is called lymphadenitis.
The main function of the lymph node is lymph filtration. Passing through it, the liquid leaves impurities. Thus, diseased cells, viruses, and pathological bacteria accumulate in the lymph nodes. In addition, immune cells mature in them. They are involved in the destruction of all extraneous pathological microorganisms.
If the lymph node on the neck is inflamed, it means that a lot of harmful bacteria have accumulated in it. In such cases, increased production of white blood cells begins. This, in turn, triggers powerful reactions of the body aimed at the destruction of pathological bacteria. In this case, parents note that the child has a lymph node on the neck.
According to experts, this condition can be caused by a number of reasons.
The most common triggering factor include cat scratches. This reason is popular among those children who are in frequent contact with these animals. The fact is that feline saliva contains pathological bacteria that, when ingested, cause an increase in the lymph node. Penetration can occur through a bite or scratch.
Often you can see that the lymph node on the neck is inflamed against the background of a cold. Often this phenomenon occurs in those children who are very prone to colds.
When an infection penetrates a child’s body, an increase occurs near the source. If the lymph node on the neck becomes inflamed, this may indicate a disease of the respiratory system, a disease of the throat or head. With an increase in the nodules behind the ears, the development of dental, eye or ear infections is possible.
An increase can accompany pain in the lymph nodes, fever, weakness, and appetite disorder. Sleep is also disturbed, the child becomes lethargic, moody.
According to experts, treatment of the lymph nodes themselves is inappropriate, due to the fact that their increase is a consequence of the main pathology. In order for therapy to become effective, it is necessary to find out the exact cause of the condition and eliminate it. As a rule, after this, the inflamed lymph node returns to its normal state.
It should be noted that this symptom does not always indicate the development of diseases. An enlarged lymph node indicates that immune cells are active. Of course, with significant inflammation, accompanied by intense and constant pain, it is necessary to immediately take the baby to the doctor.
It is not always possible to accurately diagnose at home and, therefore, choose the right and optimal treatment. That is why, one should not neglect the visit to the doctor. The specialist will prescribe the necessary tests, the results of which will most accurately indicate the cause of the enlargement of the lymph nodes. In addition, the doctor will prescribe treatment in accordance with the characteristics of the child's body, given the nature and course of the underlying disease. In addition, along with drug exposure, some traditional medicine are also effective. So, often at home, rinses with soda and iodine are used to relieve inflammation. In many cases, a timely detected disease and correctly prescribed therapy can avoid surgical intervention, which is often used with enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.