The lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, transmitting waste, nutrients, and lymph fluid between the blood stream and tissues to keep the immune system functioning properly. Occasionally, lymph nodes get swollen or irritated. The following are some of the reasons why and what to do if this happens.
The Cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes
Sometimes lymph glands swell up in reaction to stress. In these cases, the symptoms may be remedied by taking over-the-counter pain relievers and placing a heating pad over the area. However, more often they are a sign of infection. In this case, if these simple remedies do not lower swelling or lessen pain, a doctor may need to prescribe an antibiotic to treat for possible bacterial infection, while a viral infection will clear up on its own over time.