Why Do Lymph Nodes Swell Below the Throat?
Lymph node swelling below the throat is relatively common in daily life. When this occurs, it often causes symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain, and fever. In acute cases, it may even lead to abscess formation. Generally, these are benign lesions, but in rare cases, they may undergo malignant transformation, which should be noted. Lymph nodes are immune organs, and their inflammation is often related to bacterial and viral invasion. Let's take a closer look at what causes lymph node swelling below the throat.
Lymph node swelling below the throat is often caused by inflammation in the mouth and throat, leading to enlarged submandibular lymph nodes. Lymph node enlargement refers to a condition where the diameter of the lymph node exceeds 1.5 centimeters, with changes in shape and abnormal texture. The condition may be acute lymphadenitis, with mild cases presenting as mild swelling and tenderness of local lymph nodes. It most commonly occurs in the submandibular, neck, axilla, and groin regions and usually resolves without treatment. More severe cases may involve significant enlargement of local lymph nodes, accompanied by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and fever. If not treated promptly, acute lymphadenitis can progress to abscess formation.
The main clinical manifestations of lymph node swelling below the throat include fullness in the submandibular region, enlarged and tender lymph nodes. The following are some common examination methods:
1. Evaluate for primary infection sites such as respiratory infections, oral inflammation, boils, and skin infections.
2. Examine for local enlarged and painful lymph nodes, or redness and tenderness. Fluctuation may be felt, often accompanied by fever and loss of appetite.
3. If necessary, perform a lymph node biopsy to rule out malignancy.
Here are some methods to relieve lymph node swelling below the throat:
1. Develop healthy lifestyle habits.
2. Maintain a positive attitude and stable emotions. Have a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, to boost your immune system.
3. If you work in an environment with heavy smoke and fumes, take protective measures such as wearing a mask and taking regular breaks to breathe fresh air. Get at least one check-up per year.
4. Avoid exposure to smoke, alcohol, drugs, radiation, pesticides, noise, volatile harmful gases, toxic and harmful heavy metals, etc.
