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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staff
Swollen lymph nodes usually occur as a result of exposure to a bacteria or virus. Less commonly, swollen lymph nodes are caused by cancer.
Your lymph nodes, also called lymph glands, play a vital role in your body's ability to fight off viruses, bacteria and other causes of illnesses. Common areas where you might notice swollen lymph nodes include your neck, under your chin, in your armpits and in your groin.
Swollen lymph nodes may become inflamed. This is known as lymphadenitis (lim-fad-uh-NI-tis). Treatment for lymphadenitis depends on the cause. In some cases, the passage of time and the use of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and warm compresses may be all you need to treat swollen lymph nodes. For more serious cases, treatment of swollen lymph nodes involves treating the underlying cause.
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- Lymphadenitis. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec10/ch119/ch119j.html#sec10-ch119-ch119j-691. Accessed Dec. 5, 2010.
- Mohler ER, et al. Lymphedema: Etiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 6, 2010.
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- Anderson CF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Dec. 7, 2010.
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