Swollen lymph nodes can be a telltale sign that your immune system is fighting an infection and should go away by themselves within several weeks.
If your lymph nodes have become swollen and you are experiencing itchy nose, watery eyes, rashes or an enlarge tongue; these could all be signs of bacterial throat infection.
Allergies and Lymph Nodes
Causes
Lymph nodes are bean-shaped structures found throughout the body that serve as part of our immune system, located in armpits and groin areas to filter out bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that invade. When your lymph nodes become swollen this indicates an infection is being combated with force by your immune system.
Allergies are an immune reaction to an irritant such as pollen or food, inducing symptoms like watery eyes, itchy nose, runny nose, sneezing fits, rashes or hives.
Some allergies, such as hay fever or certain food allergies, may cause swollen lymph nodes in the throat and ears to swell up; this occurrence is uncommon, though sometimes caused by other causes like sinusitis or bacterial infection. Swollen lymph nodes can often be painfully tender when touched directly; warm compresses may provide temporary relief as can over-the-counter painkillers.
Symptoms
Lymph nodes serve to monitor lymph fluid for bacteria or viruses that could pose threats, alerting the immune system when any are discovered and sending white blood cells directly to where there may be swelling lymph nodes in order to combat any potential infection.
Most often, swollen lymph nodes will resolve themselves within two or three weeks once their bodies have successfully battled off any infection; however, if your lymph nodes become painful, drain pus, or become larger than usual you should seek medical advice immediately.
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam of the affected area, gathering details about your symptoms and medical history before conducting a physical examination of it. They may order various tests depending on the source of your swollen lymph nodes (see table Some Causes and Features of Swollen Lymph Nodes), including complete blood count testing for tuberculosis or HIV infection; chest x-ray; as well as mononucleosis testing using swabs; check for syphilis, toxoplasmosis or systemic Lupus Erthematosus infection before testing occurs.
Treatment
When lymph nodes swell, it’s essential that you schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, particularly if fever or other warning signs develop such as general unwellness, sore throat pain, fatigue or rashes.
Lymph nodes are part of your lymphatic system, which transports lymph fluid throughout your body and contains white blood cells that fight infection and disease. Lymph nodes appear under the skin as small nodules that resemble firm beans filled with fluid; they’re commonly found in armpits, groins, and neck regions.
Normal lymph node swelling (localized lymphadenopathy) should only affect one group at once; when multiple areas swell at once (multiregion lymphadenopathy), it’s usually an indicator of serious illness requiring medical intervention. Your doctor can typically detect swollen lymph nodes through physical examination and questioning about symptoms; they may also order chest X-rays or blood tests which detect tuberculosis, HIV infection and mononucleosis among others.
Prevention
Environmental allergies typically manifest with symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, itching or scratchy throat; less common are tender bean-sized lymph nodes on both sides of your neck which are tender to touch but could potentially be alarming.
Lymph nodes are part of your lymphatic system, which transports lymph fluid through your body and fights germs. They’re located all around your body – in places such as your neck, groin and armpit regions.
When your lymph nodes become swollen due to allergies, treating the cause with antihistamines – which will block histamine’s role in inflammation and swelling – is key. You could also try applying warm compresses directly over affected areas or gargling saltwater as part of the drainage process; then be sure to get plenty of rest so your body has time to recuperate itself.
Can Allergies Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Swollen lymph nodes, often a result of infections, can also stem from allergies occasionally.
Allergies, although uncommon, possess the capacity to incite swollen lymph nodes. These foreign substances—be it pollen, dust mites, mold, or animal dander—elicit an immune response, consequently activating the lymphatic system and inducing lymph node swelling.
Swollen lymph nodes primarily affect children and individuals enduring severe allergies.
By compromising the immune system, allergies render the body vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. Consequently, secondary infections like sinus or upper respiratory infections may ensue, causing lymph nodes to swell.
It’s crucial to note that food allergies do not contribute to swollen lymph nodes.
To summarize, while swollen lymph nodes do not typically accompany allergies, they can manifest in specific instances. If unsure of the cause for swollen lymph nodes, consulting a healthcare professional is advised.
When Should You See a Doctor if You Have Swollen Lymph Nodes Due to Allergies
If you notice swollen lymph nodes due to allergies, it is advisable to consult a doctor if the swelling persists for several days and does not show signs of improvement, or if it worsens. It is also essential to seek medical attention if you experience a fever or significant discomfort around the affected lymph nodes.
While swollen lymph nodes are not commonly associated with allergies, they can occasionally occur. If you have swollen lymph nodes and are uncertain about the cause, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.
Swollen lymph nodes due to allergies are more frequently observed in children but can also affect adults with allergies. However, developing swollen lymph nodes as a secondary infection from your allergies, such as a sinus infection, is more common in general.
What Are Some Home Remedies to Reduce Swollen Lymph Nodes Caused by Allergies
Here are some home remedies to ease swollen lymph nodes caused by allergies:
- Chamomile tea: It fights inflammation. Steep chamomile tea bags or flowers, rub them on lymph nodes. Repeat daily.
- Turmeric: A ginger-related plant. Eases lymph node swelling. Consult doctor before taking supplements.
- Apple cider vinegar: Treats infections underlying swollen nodes. Mix a tablespoon in warm water, drink twice daily for a week.
- Honey: Reduces inflammation, swelling, and pain. Mix honey, warm water, and lemon juice. Drink twice daily for a week.
- Warm compress: Apply a warm, wet cloth to the area. Reduces swelling and discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen for pain relief.
- Rest well: Recovery requires sufficient rest and sleep.
Note that it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional if swelling persists or worsens.
