Lymph nodes are also known as lymph glands. Lymph nodes are found in various parts of the body, including the neck , armpits , and groin. Lymph is a clear fluid containing white blood cells WBCs and dead and diseased tissue for disposal. The condition of having inflamed lymph nodes is referred to as lymphadenitis. Lymph node inflammation can occur for a variety of reasons. Any infection or virus, including the common cold , can cause your lymph nodes to swell.
Cancer can also cause lymph node inflammation. This includes blood cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma. Lymph node inflammation can cause a variety of symptoms. Symptoms depend on the cause of the swelling and the location of the swollen lymph nodes. A doctor typically diagnoses lymph node inflammation through a physical examination.
The doctor will feel around the location of various lymph nodes to check for swelling or sensitivity. They may also ask you about any associated symptoms, such as those listed above. Your doctor may order blood tests to check for infections. They may order imaging tests as well, such as X-rays or CT scans. These can look for tumors or sources of infection. Page last reviewed: 25 September Next review due: 25 September Swollen glands.
Check if your glands are swollen Swollen glands feel like tender, painful lumps: on each side of the neck under the chin in the armpits around the groin Glands known as lymph glands or lymph nodes swell near an infection to help your body fight it. Sometimes a gland on just one side of the body swells. Anyone who suspects that they have this condition should seek medical attention promptly. However, these infections typically affect the lymph nodes in other areas of the body, such as the neck or groin.
They are less likely to cause swelling in the armpits. Bacteria and viruses are not always responsible for swollen lymph nodes in the armpit. Other possible causes include:. Rheumatoid arthritis RA is one of several autoimmune conditions that can cause swollen lymph nodes.
A review article states that RA affects the lymph nodes, reducing their capacity to drain fluid from nearby inflamed joints. This impairment may lead to local lymph node enlargement. Doctors treat RA with medications that reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Physical therapy may also help. In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to replace or repair affected joints.
Cancer that begins in the lymphatic system is known as lymphoma. There are several types of lymphoma, including:. In addition to swollen lymph nodes, the symptoms of lymphoma can include :. Other types of cancer that have spread to the lymph nodes, such as breast cancer , can also cause swelling in these parts of the body. However, it is worth remembering that there are many causes of swollen lymph nodes that are not related to cancer. A doctor can determine the cause of swollen lymph nodes in the armpit and recommend the best treatment.
In some cases, a doctor may also carry out diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, a biopsy, or medical imaging. Swollen lymph nodes can be painful. While a person receives medical treatment, they can also try certain techniques at home to ease any tenderness. For instance, a person can apply a warm compress to reduce pain. They can run warm or hot water over a washcloth and wring it mostly dry before placing it on the swollen lymph node.
People can also take OTC pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve pain. A person should talk with their doctor if they are not sure what medications are best for them. Swollen lymph nodes One of the most common places to find swollen lymph nodes is in the neck. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter.
Show references Fletcher RH. Evaluation of peripheral lymphadenopathy in adults. Accessed Sept. Jameson JL, et al. Enlargement of lymph nodes and spleen. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. The McGraw-Hill Companies; Merck Manual Professional Version. Papadakis MA, et al. Lymphangitis and lymphadenitis. McGraw-Hill Education;
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