Each of us has about 600 lymph nodes located throughout the body. In a healthy state, they are not felt in the body, but sometimes you can feel the submandibular node (for example, with toothache), axillary node and inguinal. The normal lymph node is small (5-7 mm to 1 cm) and solid; however, there are exceptions in different areas of the body. In addition, in children aged 2 to 10 years, they are larger.
With infections and aseptic inflammation, they usually increase in size, become soft and friable and are detected by palpation in different areas of your body during a physical examination. Infections that spread to the nodes are usually caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It is important to find out the cause of the spread of infection so that adequate treatment can be prescribed.
Lymph and lymph nodes
White blood cells fight infections by producing proteins that capture and fight invaders such as viruses and other microbes. These lymph nodes (or glands) are small bean-shaped structures located along the lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic vessels connect to each other in the lymphatic chains throughout the body, like vessels. Lymph is responsible for draining fluid from tissues and transferring it to the lymph nodes, which then destroy bacteria and other harmful substances. After the lymph nodes cleanse the fluid, it returns to the main vein, called the superior vena cava, where it enters the bloodstream.
What is lymphadenitis?
Lymphadenitis is the medical term for the enlargement of one, several, or all of the lymph nodes, usually due to an acute infection. Lymph nodes, in addition to lymphoid tissue, contain a large number of white blood cells (white blood cells), which are aimed at fighting the infection.
What causes lymphadenitis, risk factors
Lymphadenitis occurs when one or more lymph nodes are infected with bacteria, viruses, or fungi in surrounding tissues, such as the skin, ears, nasal cavity, or eyes. Thus, the lymph node becomes inflamed depending on the area of its localization, this most often indicates the presence of infection in nearby organs. Less commonly, the lymph nodes become reactive (inflamed) with cancerous tumors in the body.
This is often a complication of some bacterial infections caused by streptococci (which causes streptococcal throat) or staphylococci. In some cases, lymphadenitis is caused by other infections, such as tuberculosis, feline disease, or mononucleosis.
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that usually affects the submandibular lymph nodes and lungs. A sick person experiences a gradual, painless increase and swelling in one or more lymph nodes. Common symptoms such as fever, weight loss, fatigue, and excessive sweating at night are also observed. In more severe cases, treatment of symptoms of submandibular lymphadenitis may require the use of antibiotics.
Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection spread by cats infected with Bartonella henselae, bacteria that are transmitted through flea saliva and infected feces. In people with feline scratch disease, inguinal lymphadenitis can occur, the treatment of which requires contacting a specialist. Pain and redness in the infected area are also pronounced.
Epstein-Barr virus most often causes mononucleosis. This can lead to cervical lymphadenitis, which is treated symptomatically, taking into account sore throat and general body pain.
Types of lymphadenopathy
Lymphadenopathy is one of two types:
- Localized (focal) lymphadenitis. This is the most common type. It includes inflammation of one or more nodes that are located next to the area of inflammation or infection. For example, nodes enlarged due to tonsillitis can be felt in the neck. The treatment of lymphadenitis on the neck is sometimes accompanied by certain difficulties.
- Generalized (diffuse, general) lymphadenitis. This type occurs in two or more groups of lymph nodes; it occurs against the background of septic, tumor, or other conditions that affect the bloodstream and the body as a whole.
Clinical picture
The main symptom of lymphadenitis in adults and children is enlarged lymph nodes. The lymph node is considered enlarged if it has a width of more than one and a half centimeters.
In the treatment of lymphadenitis, the symptoms and the cause of which is infection, it is important to pay attention to:
- nodes increased in size;
- nodes painful on palpation;
- softened and friable;
- hyperemia (redness);
- nodes filled with pus (abscess).
In severe cases, complications of untreated lymphadenitis can lead to the formation of an abscess that must be opened surgically, cellulitis (chronic inflammation of the dermis), sepsis (blood poisoning), or fistulas that can develop with tuberculous lymphadenitis.
Symptoms and treatment of lymphadenitis in adults can be similar to signs of other problems or diseases. Always contact medical facilities for additional diagnosis.
Diagnostics
If you have some of these symptoms, the most important part of the diagnosis for the doctor is your complete medical history and initial physical examination. Describe in detail all your symptoms, such as chills and fever; remember any recent trip, any broken bones in the past, recent contacts with cats or other animals. How long have the first signs appeared? Indicate if you are allergic to any drugs.
During a physical examination, your doctor will rule out signs of infection near the reactive lymph nodes.
Also for the diagnosis will need the following studies:
- general and biochemical blood tests;
- lymph node biopsy;
- examination of the liquid contents of the node under a microscope;
- sowing the contents on a nutrient medium to determine the growth of microbial flora.
Therapies
The choice of the optimal treatment for lymphadenitis, its symptoms and causes depends on what type of infection has developed. As soon as the infection spreads to neighboring lymph nodes, it can spread quickly to other organs, so it is important to determine the path of infection and begin treatment.
Treatment of submandibular lymphadenitis and its other types may include:
- Oral antibiotics (by mouth) or injections (injections) to fight off harmful bacteria.
- Analgesic and antipyretic drugs.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Surgical treatment with drainage of purulent lymph node.
Early treatment can prevent complications.
Drug treatment
The treatment of the symptoms and causes of lymphadenitis depends on the type of inflammatory reaction and infection. It is very important to start treatment at an early stage. Since infection from one node can quickly spread to nearby organs and tissues.
- According to studies published in Current Infectious Disease Reports, antibiotic treatment of lymphadenitis is often successful in the early stages of the disease. However, an increase in the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria required the choice of other drugs that showed less resistance or converged with other types of treatment.
- Analgesics, or painkillers, are sometimes used to combat pain, especially in treating the symptoms of lymphadenitis in children. Common analgesics are acetaminophen (Panadol, Paracetamol) and NSAIDs (NSAIDs - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs / drugs), used to reduce inflammation. It is important to be aware of the dangers of the frivolous use of NSAIDs, because they increase the risk of heart failure, the appearance of ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract and serious allergic reactions.
- In some cases, surgery may be required to drain the lymph node filled with pus (abscess). Studies published in Clinical Infectious Diseases show that surgery is very effective, with positive dynamics ranging from 81 to 92%. Especially in children in the treatment of cervical and submandibular lymphadenitis. The main disadvantage of surgical therapy is the risk of facial paralysis and excessive scarring (scarring) of tissues.
Folk remedies
There are other, more traditional and safer ways to reduce pain and inflammation, especially if the original cause is known. For example, the use of essential oils is also very effective. In addition, natural treatments for lymphadenitis do not increase the risk of developing resistance to antibiotics and do not lead to damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
Below we consider the most popular methods of alternative therapy.
1. Raw Garlic
Studies show that garlic (especially chemical compounds found in garlic, such as allicin) is very effective in killing various microorganisms, both common and rare. The antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties of garlic can help alleviate the course of infection, leading to the development of edema and inflammation of the lymph nodes. Grind and eat 2-3 cloves of raw garlic every day until the symptoms of lymphadenitis disappear.
2. Honey Manuka
According to studies published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, honey manuka has significant bactericidal activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria that cause serious infections. Researchers have suggested that acidic pH and high sugar in Manuka honey inhibit microbial growth. Look for the real UMF (unique Manuka factor) that has a rating of UMF10 or higher. This rating ensures that honey has significant antibacterial activity and is recognized by a licensed manufacturer. The UMF rating actually checks the antibacterial effect of honey and compares it with phenol - a disinfectant.
3. Colloidal silver
Colloidal silver is used as a natural treatment for the causes of lymphadenitis. It directly attaches to the membranes of bacterial cells and blocks the cellular respiration of microbes. Unlike antibiotics, colloidal silver does not cause allergies or resistance in the body. Moreover, it destroys pathogenic and infectious agents within a few minutes after exposure.
Colloidal silver also has anti-inflammatory activity and can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with lymphadenitis.
Take one drop of colloidal silver under the tongue or add five drops to a glass of water and drink. Keep in mind that it cannot be used for more than 14 days in a row.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Acetic acid is a unique way to kill pathogenic bacteria, while provoking the growth of beneficial bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is equated with natural antibiotics, it helps in the treatment of infections and stimulates the immune system.
You can use apple cider vinegar in the form of a lymphatic tonic, which helps with the detoxification (elimination of toxins) of the body and stimulate lymph drainage.
To treat infections that can lead to lymphadenitis symptoms, you need to dilute two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Take three times a day. You can also prepare vinegar lotions from a clean gauze cloth and apply them to inflamed nodes.
5. Vitamin C
Ascorbic acid helps stimulate a tense immune system that fights infection. It plays an important role in protecting the body. It also reduces the likelihood of complications from infections in the lymph nodes. For a sick person with severe lymphadenitis, a therapeutic dosage of vitamin is necessary, which is 4000 mg for adults. Vitamin C is found in large quantities in pineapples, citruses, strawberries, and papaya.
6. Astragalus root
Astragalus root helps in removing edema from inflamed nodes in viral infections, such as mononucleosis. It has powerful antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory abilities. The usual use of Chinese folk remedies refers to a wide range of diseases due to its immunomodulatory effects. You can take the drug in the form of tincture or capsules or buy it in dry form and add to hot water.
7. Oregano essential oil
A 2016 study published in Frontiers by Microbiology shows that oregano oil has potent antibacterial activity against certain antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Oregano oil showed a bactericidal effect against all 17 strains involved in testing.
Oregano oil is also effective against viral and fungal infections. The benefits of oregano oil are superior to prescription antibiotics because, unlike antibiotics, patients using oregano oil to treat infections have no serious side effects, such as dysbiosis and intestinal disorders. To treat submandibular lymphadenitis, take oregano oil for a maximum of two weeks. Take orally by diluting it with water or mixing with coconut oil.
8. Tea tree essential oil
A study in India showed that tea tree essential oil is effective in controlling various bacteria. So, for example, it was found that when applying tea tree oil, the result came immediately and was accompanied by a lasting effect for 24 hours.
Prevention methods
The best way to prevent lymphadenitis is through a timely medical examination in specialized institutions. At the first sign of any infection or when there is a slight swelling that feels like a small bump right under your skin, consult a specialist.
In case of any scratches and damage to the skin, be sure to clean and disinfect them, always practice thorough hygiene in public places.
Take all medications in accordance with the instructions of the attending physician, be sure to follow the course of treatment and the timing of the visit to a specialist. Do not use medicines without a prescription and without first consulting your doctor.
Cool compresses and peace of the affected part of the body can help relieve pain and inflammatory swelling while the medications do their job.
In most cases, lymphadenitis resolves quickly with proper treatment, but it may take longer to fully recover. When symptoms of lymphadenitis return, be sure to inform your doctor.
Useful information and tips
Tips to help you get the most out of your health center are provided below.
Think in advance the reason for your visit to the doctor, what exactly you need to find out. Before visiting, write down all the questions that need an answer. Bring someone with you to support and help you not to forget questions, as well as remember all the answers.
During the visit, write down the name of the diagnosis, medication, procedure or test. Also write down all instructions and appointments from your doctor. Find out why and why these medications or treatments are prescribed, how this will help you. Do not forget to ask about side effects, whether treatment is possible in other ways.
Specify the consequences and what to expect if you interrupt the course of taking the medicine, or if you do not pass certain tests and tests. If you are scheduled to follow up with a doctor, write down the date, time, and purpose of this visit. Ask how you can contact your doctor if you have new questions.