What should I do about inflamed neck lymph nodes?
In general, cervical lymphadenitis may be caused by improper diet, upper respiratory tract infection, gingivitis, tonsillitis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and other factors. The solution depends on identifying the specific cause to achieve effective treatment. It is important to seek medical attention promptly and follow medical advice for treatment. Details are as follows:
1. Improper Diet: If a patient consumes large amounts of spicy food and drinks insufficient water recently, symptoms of excessive internal heat ("fire") may occur. Under the stimulation of internal heat, cervical lymph nodes may become inflamed, accompanied by signs of heat accumulation in the body. It is recommended to adjust the diet by reducing intake of spicy and greasy foods, increasing water consumption, and eating more fruits, vegetables, and other light foods.
2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: This condition can reduce the body's immunity and resistance, making it more susceptible to bacterial or viral infections. Pathogens may enter the cervical lymph nodes through the lymphatic channels, causing lymphadenitis, often accompanied by coughing. Treatment may include medications such as Ganmao Qingre Granules, Isatidis Root Granules, or Shuanghuanglian Oral Liquid, as directed by a physician, to relieve symptoms and provide antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Gingivitis: Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue caused by bacterial infection. When inflammation occurs in the gums, inflammatory secretions may spread through the lymphatic channels to the cervical lymph nodes, causing lymphadenitis along with gum swelling. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Kangfuxin Solution, Amoxicillin Tablets, or Metronidazole Tablets may be used to provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
4. Tonsillitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tonsillar tissue caused by bacterial infection. When the tonsils become inflamed, secretions are produced, which may travel through the lymphatic channels to the cervical lymph nodes, causing lymphadenitis accompanied by throat pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Tablets, Houyeling Anti-inflammatory Granules, or Trollius Chinensis Granules may be used for anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.
5. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. When the immune system attacks the cervical lymph nodes, it may cause lymphadenitis, often accompanied by fever. As directed by a physician, medications such as Hydroxychloroquine Sulfate Tablets, Azathioprine Tablets, or Prednisone Acetate Tablets may be used to suppress excessive immune system activity.
Patients should maintain good lifestyle and hygiene habits to enhance immunity and prevent disease occurrence.