Lymph nodes on the back of the head, as in other parts of the body, are a formation of connective tissue in those places where several vessels join. Their functions include not only filtering lymph, but also cleaning it from bacteria, various viruses and harmful microorganisms. Cells of the immune system are involved in this process.
Why is the lymph node on the back of the head enlarged ?
Lymph nodes are the first level of protection of a living organism from infection, however, with the inflammatory process in the body, the load on the nodes increases, which leads to their increase. If the lymph node on the back of the head is inflamed , most likely this is a consequence of angina or conjunctivitis. Infection of the scalp and trauma also lead to such an unpleasant phenomenon.
Communication of lymph nodes with organs
Cervical lymph nodes are responsible for cleansing the tissues located on the head. They become inflamed and increase with acute respiratory viral infections (rhinitis, pharyngitis) or with more serious infections (tuberculosis, mononucleosis). The submandibular lymph nodes are associated with the oral cavity, i.e. their inflammation can be caused by diseases of the teeth, gums and throat.
With an increase in only one side, a blood test should be performed to rule out reactive lymphadenitis. Lymph nodes behind the ears increase with caries, colds, otitis media and sinusitis, and with rubella, they also become inflamed in front. If the inflammation affects the axillary region, most likely the person is sick with arthritis or mastitis. Inguinal lymph nodes become inflamed with infections associated with the genital area, injuries.
Features of the disease in children
Lymph nodes on the back of the head in children also increase when an infection enters the body, which indicates normal immunity. If their inflammation is localized in the neck, most often this is a consequence of a sore throat or inflammation of the adenoids. Diphtheria often leads to swelling of the neck. This group of nodes is sensitive to toxoplasmosis, a cat scratch disease . Chickenpox and abscesses on the body cause an increase in lymph nodes under the armpits.
When is an urgent need to see a doctor?
Most often, patients complain to the doctor about enlarged lymph nodes on the back of the head and other parts of the body, but there is no pain. This is a consequence of the inflammatory process in the body. If pain appears, it means that the infection has spread to the node itself, i.e. lymphadenitis developed. The reason for this may be reduced immunity. A visit to the doctor in this case should be immediate.
Tumor processes
Suspicion of a tumor arises from the fusion and excessive compaction of the lymph nodes. Before starting local treatment, you should find the focus of infection in the body and carry out its reorganization. Enlarged lymph nodes on the back of the head are a direct indication of a problem in the body. Therefore, you need to carefully check the condition of the throat, teeth, exclude gynecological diseases and get rid of the underlying disease. Enlarged lymph nodes are often a symptom of many serious diseases like cancer. At the same time, their size increases to 3 or more centimeters, a fairly strong compaction is observed. Various tumors form metastases in the lymph nodes, and then through them spread throughout the body.