In the vast majority of cases, swollen glands are not serious. Swollen glands at the base of the neck and just above the collarbone may be an infection or even a tumor within the chest, and should be examined by a physician as soon as possible. In general, because children have more viral infections than adults, lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, are more likely to be enlarged. Sometimes the illness may be a generalized one, such as those caused by a virus, in which case many glands might be slightly swollen. For example, a sore throat often will cause glands in the neck to swell, or an infection on the arm will produce swollen glands under the arm. Often, if you look near the gland, you can find the infection or injury that has caused it to swell. If your child has swollen glands, you’ll be able to feel them or actually see the swelling. Rarely, swollen glands, particularly if long-lasting and without other signs of inflammation, such as redness or tenderness, may indicate a tumor. When lymph glands become enlarged or swollen, it usually means that the lymphocytes have increased in number due to an infection or other illness and that they are being called into action to produce extra antibodies. The lymphocytes produce substances called antibodies that destroy or immobilize infecting cells or poisons. These glands normally contain groups of cells, called lymphocytes, which act as barriers to infection. Lymph glands (or lymph nodes) are an important part of the body’s defense system against infection and illness.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |