Lymphadenitis on the neck is a fairly common problem that occurs in both children and adults. A similar disease is accompanied by inflammation of the lymph nodes and occurs against the background of infection activity. So what are the causes and symptoms of the inflammatory process?
Lymphadenitis on the neck and its causes
It's no secret that the main function of the lymph nodes is to protect the body from infection, since it is here that some varieties of white blood cells are produced and mature. An increase and inflammation of the node indicates the penetration of viruses, bacteria or fungal orgasms into the body.
Lymphadenitis on the neck can occur against a background of various diseases, in particular, sinusitis, tonsillitis, tonsillitis, otitis. In addition, carious teeth, sore gums, or the mucous membrane of the mouth can be a source of infection. Rubella, colds, mononucleosis, flu - all these diseases can be attributed to risk factors. Much less often, pathogenic microorganisms enter the lymph nodes of the neck from internal organs.
Lymphadenitis on the neck and its symptoms
The main signs of the disease directly depend on the degree of its development. Acute lymphadenitis of the neck proceeds in three stages:
- The catarrhal phase is accompanied by a significant increase in the affected nodes. When probing, they are hard - sometimes the knot can be seen with the naked eye. Touching the affected area is painful.
- If untreated, the hemorrhagic stage of inflammation sets in , in which lymph with blood impurities begins to accumulate in the lymph nodes. In such cases, the skin over the affected node swells and becomes hard to the touch.
- The purulent phase of inflammation is considered dangerous, as it can lead to the development of phlegmon. At this stage, the skin over the node reddens, becomes extremely painful and red to the touch. Along with this, the patient's well-being worsens significantly.
Of course, lymphadenitis in the neck can cause other symptoms. In some patients, already in the initial stages there is a strong increase in temperature, weakness, drowsiness, muscle aches, and heaviness in the body. Depending on the primary disease, a runny nose, sore throat, nausea, and other problems are possible.
Lymphadenitis on the neck and its complications
Of course, with qualified medical care, the inflammatory process is easily eliminated with the help of medications. But in some cases, lymphadenitis ends with an abscess or the formation of phlegmon. Particularly dangerous complications include sepsis, toxic shock syndrome, and the development of rheumatism.
Lymphadenitis on the neck: treatment
Of course, a strong enlargement of the lymph nodes is a good reason to visit a doctor’s office. In this case, the main goal of a specialist is to determine the primary disease, since if the cause is eliminated, the inflammatory process in the lymph nodes can decay by itself. Patients are recommended bed rest, warmth and peace, a balanced diet and plenty of drinking. In some cases, anti-inflammatory and analgesics are prescribed, in particular, ibuprofen preparations. In the presence of a purulent process, surgical intervention is necessary.