Swelling of lymph nodes in the neck
Like the lymph nodes on the side of the neck, the lymph nodes in the neck can be swollen in cases of respiratory tract infections or infectious diseases such as glandular fever or rubella infection. The lymph nodes in the neck can also swell in the case of cancer.
Unilateral swelling of the lymph nodes
A unilateral lymph node swelling often occurs in the case of a local infection. A local infection is present, for example, when the child injures itself (one scratch is enough). Bacteria can then enter the body through the skin.
They are then controlled, so to speak, in the next lymph node ward and the lymph nodes try to fight them. This leads to a swelling of the affected lymph nodes. If, on the other hand, there is a systemic infection – an infection that affects the whole body – the lymph nodes are often swollen on both sides. Examples of such infections are infections of the respiratory tract, colds, flu, measles, rubella and glandular fever.
Generalized swelling of lymph nodes in children
A generalized lymph node swelling means a swelling of lymph nodes of all lymph node stations, i.e. especially in the area of both groins, both armpits and on both sides of the neck. Such a generalized swelling can have various causes, it occurs rather rarely. One possible cause is, for example, the presence of HIV. But even in the case of the rather harmless Pfeiffer’s glandular fever, a generalized lymph node swelling can occur.
Swelling of lymph nodes in the groin
In children, swelling of lymph nodes in the neck area is most common. But swelling of lymph nodes in the groin can also occur. The cause may be a small injury. Once this has subsided, the swelling usually recedes. If the swelling persists for a long time or increases, a doctor should be consulted.
Lymph node swelling after an insect bite
After an insect bite, lymph node swelling can occur as a reactive immune response of the body. If someone is allergic to a certain type of insect bite, an allergic reaction with redness and swelling at the bite site may occur.This leads to the vessels of the capillaries becoming more permeable and more fluid reaching the tissue. However, this usually causes lymph congestion, which in turn causes the lymph nodes to react and swell.
In some cases, pathogens also enter the bloodstream through a puncture, which also causes a reaction. The most common form of lymph node swelling occurs after harmless bacterial or viral colds. During infection, the pathogens are transported to the nearest lymph node stations, which are an essential part of the immune defense against the disease.
Under certain circumstances, the lymph nodes swell as a reaction to the pathogen contact and cause pain. In colds of the upper respiratory tract, cervical lymph nodes are particularly affected. In rare cases, lymph nodes in the neck, behind the ears, around the collarbone or in the armpit may also be swollen. After the cold, the swelling subsides.
