How is lymph node swelling caused?
Nov 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
As part of the human immune system, lymph nodes may undergo reactive hyperplasia in response to external stimuli such as infections, inflammation, or vaccinations, leading to lymphadenopathy. This hyperplasia is a normal response of the body to stimulation and is usually not accompanied by other symptoms. The enlarged lymph nodes are typically soft in texture, smooth-surfaced, non-tender, and may resolve spontaneously after a period of time.
Generally, lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) may be caused by reactive hyperplasia, growth and development, acute lymphadenitis, rheumatic fever, tuberculosis, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Reactive Hyperplasia
Lymph nodes, as part of the human immune system, may undergo reactive hyperplasia when encountering external stimuli such as infections, inflammation, or vaccination, leading to lymph node enlargement. This hyperplasia is a normal response of the body to stimuli and is usually not accompanied by other symptoms. The enlarged lymph nodes are typically soft in texture, smooth on the surface, non-tender, and may resolve spontaneously after a period of time. No specific treatment is generally required, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and enhancing immunity are sufficient.
2. Growth and Development
During the growth and development stages in children and adolescents, lymph nodes also gradually enlarge to meet the increasing immune demands of the body. This enlargement is usually uniform, non-tender, and does not interfere with normal daily life. Lymphadenopathy caused by growth and development typically does not require specific treatment, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular observation is sufficient.
3. Acute Lymphadenitis
Acute lymphadenitis is an acute inflammation of the lymph nodes caused by bacterial or viral infections. Bacteria or viruses enter the lymph nodes through lymphatic vessels, triggering an inflammatory response within the lymph nodes, resulting in lymphocyte proliferation, vascular congestion, and edema, which can cause symptoms such as swollen, painful, and red lymph nodes. Anti-infective medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefradine capsules, or erythromycin ethylsuccinate tablets may be used according to medical advice.
4. Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever is a systemic disease caused by streptococcal infection. Following streptococcal infection, the body mounts an immune response, forming immune complexes that deposit in areas such as the joints, heart, blood vessels, and lymph nodes, causing inflammatory reactions and tissue damage. It can affect multiple systems including the joints, heart, blood vessels, and lymph nodes, leading to symptoms such as lymphadenopathy, joint pain, and subcutaneous nodules. Medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, azithromycin tablets, or compound aspirin tablets may be used under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.
5. Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. After entering the body through the respiratory tract, Mycobacterium tuberculosis can infect the lymph nodes, causing tuberculous lymphadenitis and resulting in lymph node enlargement. Additionally, Mycobacterium tuberculosis can produce toxins that cause systemic reactions such as low-grade fever and night sweats. Treatment may involve medications such as isoniazid tablets, rifampicin capsules, or ethambutol hydrochloride tablets, administered under the guidance of a physician.
It is recommended to develop good living habits, maintain a proper balance between work and rest, and avoid excessive fatigue to promote overall health.
