Spread throughout the body, including the neck and stomach, lymph nodes are a vital part of the body’s immune system, as they help in the fight against infection. However, sometimes the lymph nodes themselves are beset by infection. When this is the case, they may swell and become tender.
What causes it?
Swollen lymph nodes are most often caused by infection – the source of which may be something as simple as the common cold, or may be a more serious infection, depending on what other symptoms go with them. Lymph nodes swell as they try to fight the infection.
Tips?
Swollen lymph nodes caused by something like the cold or flu are generally nothing to worry about, but it can be difficult to determine the cause. Because of this, it is a good idea to play it safe and let your healthcare provider know about the swollen lymph node so he or she may be able to treat you if they see fit, as they see fit.
Read more
Sources
- “Toxoplasmosis.” CDC.gov. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1/10/2013. Web.
- Mayo Clinic Staff. “Swollen lymph nodes.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 1/2/2014. Web.
