Enlarged, inflamed lymph nodes are a problem that many people face. After all, do not forget that it is the lymphatic system that is responsible for protecting the body from the adverse effects of the external and internal environment. So what are the symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck? What are the main causes of this problem? These questions interest many.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck: causes
The lymphatic system is primarily responsible for neutralizing the infection. Therefore, any disease of an infectious nature, including infection with fungi, viruses or bacteria, can cause an increase in lymph nodes. Of course, with trauma and wounds, pathogenic microorganisms can enter the lymphatic system from the outside. However, in most cases, symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck manifest themselves against the background of an inflammatory or purulent process in neighboring organs. Risk factors include colds, carious teeth, tonsillitis, tonsillitis, tuberculosis and other diseases of the respiratory system.
In addition, the immune system reacts in the same way to the formation of malignant structures. Cancerous diseases are also accompanied by enlargement and inflammation of the lymph nodes. The risk group includes people with autoimmune disorders.
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck: symptoms
In fact, the clinical picture in this case may look different - it all depends on the nature of the pathogen and the severity of the primary disease. For example, with a viral infection of the body, the lymph nodes increase, become painful, but all these changes disappear on their own after a few weeks.
But with a bacterial infection, the symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck look different, since such diseases, as a rule, are accompanied by the formation and accumulation of purulent masses. Yes, in the initial stages the same symptoms can be traced. Lymph nodes on the neck noticeably increase and become hard - they can easily be felt even on your own.
In the future, the so-called serous stage of lymphadenitis occurs. At the same time, the skin over the affected lymph nodes strongly swells, becomes hard and hot to the touch. Feeling the nodes is more difficult. Along with this, the main signs of intoxication are also observed - patients complain of weakness, drowsiness, constant fatigue, and loss of appetite. Often there is also an increase in temperature, nausea.
As the disease progresses, the symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck become more pronounced and at the same time dangerous. The skin above the affected node becomes red and hot. There is severe pain, which increases with any touch or even rotation of the head. All these signs indicate the beginning of a purulent process. In most severe cases, a large abscess can be seen under the skin.
In any case, if you have any of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor. The fact is that lymphadenitis is much easier to cure in the initial stages. Of course, first of all, the doctor must determine the nature of the infection, the primary disease and the source of pathogenic organisms. And if conservative treatment is effective in the early stages, then with the accumulation of a large amount of pus in the lymph nodes, surgical intervention is no longer necessary.