What is lymphatic inflammation. Inflammation of the lymph nodes - causes, diagnosis and treatment

Inflammation lymph nodes- a disease characterized by lesions of the lymph nodes, becoming painful to the touch, increasing in size. Such an inflammatory process is called lymphadenitis.

Infections and bacteria systematically penetrate inside, and the lymphatic system is a reliable protective barrier that protects the body from the harmful effects of pathological microorganisms.

Microbes that could not “pass further” settle in the lymph nodes, which has an extremely negative effect on the health of the body, since these glands sensitively monitor the state of a person, immediately responding to pathological manifestations.

What are lymph nodes?

This term refers to the glands, round in shape, pinkish-gray in color, located in the lymphatic vessels. Involved in hematopoietic processes. Lymphocytes formed inside, together with lymph, flowing through the nodes, penetrate into the blood, are carried throughout the body.

Locations

• head
• elbow
• armpit
• chest,

They are located superficially (under the skin, in the subcutaneous fat), or deep in the body.

What are the lymph nodes responsible for?

The task assigned by the body is the filtration function. Pathogenic microorganisms arriving with lymph are delayed:

• viruses
• bacteria
• tumor cells

Inflammatory phenomena in the gland - the action of the above voiced protective function, preventing the further spread of the infectious process.

The resulting lymphocytes are involved in immune processes.

In addition, the nodes are involved in metabolic processes, redistributing between blood and lymph:

• platelets, leukocytes, erythrocytes

Classification of the disease, stage

There are acute and chronic forms of the disease. With acute development of lymphadenitis, three stages are possible:

• catarrhal
• hyperplastic
• purulent

The pathogenesis of the first two phases is characterized by reddening of the skin over an enlarged lymph node, expansion of the cavities of the gland ducts, and desquamation of the endothelium. The tissues are saturated with exudate, swell and become inflamed.

The number of lymphocytes increases, the cells of the lymphoid tissue rapidly divide, the tissue grows. The described structural changes do not go beyond the node capsule. In a negative scenario, a purulent form is possible, when the exudate that accumulates in the capsule “breaks through”, filling the surrounding fiber with infected contents.

Lymphadenitis can become a catalyst for the development of purulent pathologies: sepsis, adenophlegmon.

Severe consequences are borne by the ichorous form of the disease, when the putrefactive decay of nodes is ascertained. lymphatic system.

In the case of rapid and extensive tissue necrosis, we are talking about the necrotic form of the disease.

Rare forms include:

• - knot is saturated with blood
• fibrinous - fibrin prolapse, extensive exudation

Inflamed lymph nodes are treated by lymphologists, phlebologists.

Causes of lymphadenitis

Inflammation can affect:

• single nodes
• group, adjacent

Based on the etiology of the disease, as well as the causative agent that provoked inflammation, lymphadenitis classify:

• specific - pyogenic bacteria (staphylococci, streptococci), reach the nodes by hematogenous, lymphogenous, contact routes
• non-specific

As for nonspecific inflammations, the causative factors in this situation are:

• boils
• festering wounds
• caries
• erysipelas
• osteomyelitis
• felons

• angina
• scarlet fever
• diphtheria

The list of possible pathogens of a specific form of inflammation of the nodes:

• tuberculosis
• syphilis
• gonorrhea

Signs of the disease

An increase in size is a fundamental sign indicating an unfavorable state in the “zone” of the location of the nodes. For catarrhal, hyperplastic forms, a change in size is not difficult to detect, since the nodes are easily palpable, pain insignificant.

With suppuration of the node, the symptomatic pattern is more distinct, there are more negative factors:

• headache
• feverish state
• loss of appetite
• temperature increase
• the knot becomes tight, the touch is painful
• the affected area swells, reddens
• the capsule of the gland, adjacent tissue become inflamed, so the contour outlines of the node become fuzzy

Perceptible pains force the patient not to load the affected area, to treat it with care. As a result, an abscess forms quickly, breaks through, and the surrounding tissues are filled with purulent contents.
The abscess, the doctor needs to open on time, otherwise the likelihood of developing serious purulent complications increases: blood sepsis, adenophlegmon, thrombophlebitis. For putrefactive lymphadenitis, with palpation, a crunch of the node is characteristic. The patient has a fever, an increase in the pulse is noted.

Chronic form - the nodes are dense, enlarged, there are no "adhesions" with the surrounding tissues.

The result - the affected areas of the lymphoid tissue are replaced by connective tissue, the nodes are wrinkled. Growing, the tissue is able to swell, cause lymphostasis, elephantiasis.

Diagnostics

To stop the formation, timely opening of the primary purulent focus are the main tasks of the attending physician.

Self-examination of a peripheral lymph node is a preventive procedure that allows you to quickly respond to problems that have arisen.

Carefully, with the fingers of both hands, feel the back of the head. It is better to start palpation from the center, slowly moving towards the auricles. Next, make a total inspection of the back of the neck, the area behind the ears. Continuing an independent examination, in turn we feel the areas of the chin, collarbone, armpit.

An increase in size is a reason to immediately consult a doctor.

However, this is only relevant for acute form nonspecific lymphadenitis, when there is a clear change in the size of the node on the face.

The purulent form of the disease is more difficult to diagnose, a competently collected anamnesis is extremely important - the medical biography of the patient. The doctor needs to find out:

• when did the increase
• under what circumstances good health, or period of illness)
• determine the number of enlarged nodes
• to determine whether there were contacts with other infectious patients
• find out the current weight loss is possible

After the conversation, an initial examination is carried out, at which the fundamental criteria for a doctor are:

• temperature indicator in the area of ​​superficial lymph nodes
• dimensions
• skin color
• elasticity
• density
• soreness
• connection with surrounding tissues
• softening

It is possible to detect deeply located lymph nodes by palpation examination, in case of a noticeable increase in size.

The standard diagnostic measure is the procedure of puncture biopsy of the node. Detects possible presence serious illnesses(, sarcoidosis, lymphogranulomatosis), or helps to state the chronic form of lymphadenitis. The tissue sample taken is carefully examined under a microscope. The biopsy procedure checks whether the lymph node is affected by cancer.

Nodes that are not available for verification by palpation, puncture methods are examined by other diagnostic methods. List of similar clinical and laboratory studies:

• X-ray of the affected area
• radionuclide
• ultrasonic
• CT scan affected areas
• lymphography

Treatment of swollen lymph nodes

The therapeutic process allows for a conservative approach if the pathology has not had time to “gain momentum”. What has been said is relevant for the catarrhal, hyperplastic stage of acute lymphadenitis. Treat with antibiotics, given the sensitivity of the microbial flora. They prescribe a course of UHF procedures, prescribe the necessary vitamins.

In the case of a purulent form of the disease, surgical intervention is required:

• open an abscess
• withdraw
• sanitize the lesion

The treatment process is complex, but the emphasis is on detoxification, antibacterial therapy.

In the case when the inflammation of the nodes has become chronic, then efforts are aimed at combating the primary disease, which provokes inflammation.

With specific lymphadenitis, treatment is based on the etiology of the pathogen that caused the primary pathological process.

Folk methods of treatment

The lymphatic system, along with immunity, is the basis for protecting the body from diseases, however, many people know about the importance of increasing immunity, but little attention is paid to the proper strengthening of the lymph nodes. These are biological filters, because the lymph flowing through them is cleared of pathogenic microorganisms.

Disturbances in performance are possible, which leads to inflammation, which must be detected in time and subjected to adequate therapy.

Cleansing the lymph with folk methods is a secondary therapeutic measure that requires mandatory approval from the doctor.

The main treatment is medication. In severe cases (purulent form), you can not do without it.

Before use, consult your doctor for possible contraindications.

• Bathing with leaves walnut. Pre-dried leaves, at least 1/2 kilogram, fill the container. Add cold water, boil for three quarters of an hour, tightly closing the container with a lid. After straining the resulting broth, squeezing out the raw material, the drug is poured into the bath. Similar, positively affects the inflamed lymph nodes.
• Thoroughly grind the following components: lure roots, pink radiola (2 hours), hawthorn fruit, wild rose (3 hours), nettle, St. John's wort (2 hours). After mixing the ingredients mentioned above, with boiling water (200 ml.), Pour the resulting mixture. We stand a quarter of an hour. We drink the decoction warm, 70 ml each, before meals for a quarter of an hour.
• We mix lingonberries, viburnum, rose hips in equal shares. Pour boiling water (200 ml.), 1 tbsp. l. the resulting mixture. Boil ten minutes. Having wrapped, we insist for three hours. A single portion of the resulting infusion is 100 ml., Twice a day.
• We take in equal parts grated carrots, wild rose, black currant, nettle leaf. Half a liter of very hot water, pour the resulting mixture (1 tablespoon). Boil for a quarter of an hour, insist, filter. Reception is identical to the previous recipe.
• With the task of lymph, an ordinary dandelion copes. Grind to a powdery state, previously dried roots of this plant. Fill the resulting mixture with boiling water (st. L.), We insist in a thermos. For a week, take 200 ml half an hour before meals.
• Burdock roots (4 tablespoons), pre-crushed, pour a liter of boiling water overnight. In the morning, filter, drink before meals, in a glass, in a warm form.
• Bring dry burdock root to a powder. Reception by tsp, washed down with tea, warm milk.
• Boiling water (400 ml.), Combine with burdock seeds (2 tablespoons). Insist in a thermos for ten hours. A quarter of an hour after eating, drink 100 ml.

Treatment started in time will help to overcome the pathological process and will not allow it to spread. chronic stage diseases can lead to scarring of the node, with the replacement of lymphoid tissue. There is a probability .

In order to prevent inflammation of the lymph nodes, you need to follow simple preventive recommendations. Try not to:

• microdamages of the skin
• infection of wounds - disinfect abrasions, cuts in time
• competently deal with emerging infectious foci - caries, tonsillitis
• respond in time to purulent formations - treat boils, carbuncles, panaritiums

Take an interest in health, goodbye.

Lymph nodes are part of the immune system and produce cells that help fight infections. These are a kind of biological filters that delay various infections and preventing them from penetrating the entire body.

The appearance of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck is a fairly common occurrence, most often found in children. Scientifically it is called cervical lymphadenitis.

Inflammation is localized in the cervical lymph nodes, and it is very dangerous because these same lymph nodes are quite close to the brain. This means that if the cervical region of the lymphatic system does not cope with the infection, then the risk of its penetration into the brain tissue will increase significantly.

In case of inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes, it is urgent to consult a specialist. To timely diagnose and conduct effective drug treatment.

What are lymph nodes for?

An enlarged lymph node is a signal from the immune system, which means that it is no longer able to protect the body itself from an infection that has penetrated into it or a frolic autoimmune inflammation. Most of the lymph nodes are located on the human neck, these are:

• submandibular,
• chin;
• anterior and posterior;
• anterior and posterior;
• submandibular;
• pharyngeal;
• occipital.

Depending on which group or which lymph node is enlarged, the cause of the inflammation can also be suspected. The functions of the lymph nodes are:

• participation in biochemical processes - exchange;
• the formation of immune cells - immunopoietic;
• stimulation of the reproduction of cells of some organs - stimulating;
• an obstacle to the penetration of foreign substances into the body - barrier.
• education shaped elements blood - lymphocytes - hematopoietic;

Normally, peripheral lymph nodes, including the cervical ones, are defined as single rounded formations with a diameter of 3 to 8 mm (submandibular - up to 1 cm, inguinal - up to 1.5 cm), soft, mobile, not soldered to each other and others tissues, painless.

With an increase, the formation loses its elasticity and becomes somewhat painful due to irritation of the nerve receptors of the surrounding tissues.

Causes of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck

Why are the lymph nodes in the neck inflamed? There can be quite a few reasons for this. Usually, cervical lymphadenitis is not an independent disease, but is a complication of the inflammatory process of a different localization (more often, organs located in the immediate vicinity of the lymph node).

In some cases, lymphadenitis still occurs primarily: infectious agent penetrates into the lymphatic network through mechanically damaged skin or mucous membranes.

The main causes of inflammation of the lymph node in the neck:

Less often, enlarged lymph nodes may indicate disorders in the body due to:

• diseases thyroid gland;
• violations of metabolic processes;
• alcoholism;
• allergic reactions;
• disease connective tissue.

In most cases, lymphadenitis is formed when pathogenic microorganisms enter the body. These often include staphylococci and streptococci. With a small lesion of the body, there may not be a response from the lymphatic system.

Symptoms of cervical lymphadenitis

With inflammation of the lymph nodes, the following symptoms are observed:

1. A significant increase in the size of the cervical lymph nodes;
2. Subjective local symptoms (lymph nodes in the neck hurt, pain increases significantly during swallowing, as well as during palpation of the affected area);
3. General symptoms (general malaise, fever, constant feeling fatigue, weakness).

It is important to understand that lymph nodes are composed of lymphatic tissue. It is in the lymph nodes a large number of protective cells that help fight bacterial and cancer cells. Lymph nodes are important for immunity, with the help of their body actively fights viruses and microbes.

What to do with inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck

Inflamed lymph node on the neck what to do? Initially, you need to visit a medical facility, the diagnosis of this disease is not particularly difficult for a qualified specialist. The diagnosis is based on the study of the patient's history, his questioning, the results of the examination and the study of complaints.

To clarify the diagnosis, the following studies are prescribed:

• radiography of the soft tissues of the neck and submandibular zone;
• biopsy of the affected lymph node;
• magnetic resonance and computed tomography;
• excision of the lymph node with histological analysis.

Since lymphadenitis is threatening with its consequences for the human body, treatment should be started immediately after the diagnosis is made.

How to treat swollen lymph nodes

Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes - mainly secondary state, therefore, first of all, it is necessary to cure the underlying disease, and getting rid of lymphadenitis will help remove the infection and increase immunity.

Often swollen lymph nodes in the neck area are treated conservatively. The patient is shown compliance with bed rest. You can’t walk for a long time, be out of the wind or in extreme heat, play sports, actively walk around the rooms. Antibiotics are recommended, selected taking into account the sensitivity of the infectious agent, mental and physical rest. Also along with various medicines, it becomes mandatory to take multivitamins, immunostimulating drugs and products with high content vitamin C.

With purulent forms of lymphadenitis, the resulting foci are opened, drained, and enhanced antibiotic therapy is required. Such patients are usually treated in a hospital, under the supervision of qualified professionals.

Complications

In no case should the disease be treated at home. This is due to the fact that cervical lymph nodes are located close to the brain and the ascending pathological process threatens to reach the brain and lead to.

Also, advanced lymphadenitis threatens to get the infection into the blood, which means that it can occur (blood poisoning) and spread the infection throughout the body. In this case, the life of the patient is in mortal danger.

Prevention

What to do after recovery to avoid inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck? Since lymphadenitis refers to a disease that can develop for many reasons, it can be understood that, as such, tips and recommendations for complete prevention this disease does not exist.

To prevent cervical lymphadenitis, try:

• support the health of the immune system;
• do not start acute infectious diseases;
• exclude the possibility of being in a draft or hypothermia;
• properly tempered regularly;
• prevent the occurrence of microtrauma, as well as infection of wounds;
• observe personal hygiene and use a gauze bandage during the epidemiological season.

If the lymph node is still inflamed and causes inconvenience, then the first thing to do is to consult a doctor. Especially when there is a suspicion of purulent lymphadenitis. The specialist will diagnose and tell you what to do.

Lymph nodes or lymph glands are small structures Swollen lymph nodes on the neck, under the armpits, in the groin and other areas located near the vital important bodies. The main task of the lymph nodes is to filter the lymph and help the body fight infections.

What is lymph, in general terms, everyone knows. It is also called ichor: this is the same colorless liquid that appears on the wound if the skin is slightly damaged. But there is much more lymph in the body than it might seem. It washes the cells of all organs and tissues, fills the intercellular spaces, is considered a special type of connective tissue and one of the most important elements.

It is the lymph that flushes out dead cells, decay products, viruses, bacteria from the body.

The basis of lymph is lymphocytes - the main cells of the immune system that can recognize pathogens. Flowing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is filtered: viruses and bacteria linger in them and are destroyed.

When a person is healthy, the glands purify the lymph without undue stress. But if the viral or microbial attack is too strong, they have a hard time. The lymph nodes overflow with "garbage" that they do not have time to digest, become inflamed and become like peas rolling under the skin.

In general, enlarged lymph nodes are a sign that an inflammatory process is developing somewhere nearby.

Why are the lymph nodes in the neck inflamed

Here is a list of the most likely causes:

• Diseases respiratory tract- the same SARS.
• Problems in oral cavity or nasopharynx. For example, pulpitis, inflammation in the sinuses.
• General infections - chickenpox, measles, cytomegalovirus.
• Skin infections - for example, inflammation that has arisen due to an unsuccessful attempt to squeeze a pimple.
• Otitis.

However, there are also more unpleasant reasons inflammation of the lymph nodes.

When to see a doctor with enlarged lymph nodes

Most often, enlarged lymph nodes are not an independent disease, but only a symptom. Therefore, they are usually accompanied by other signs of infection:

• general malaise and weakness;
• rise in temperature;
• headache;
• pain in the throat, ears or mouth;
• , nasal congestion.

Is there such a thing? So, do not worry and with the whole bunch of symptoms go to the therapist. The doctor will help you quickly cure a cold, otitis media or send you to the same dentist - if he decides that caries may be the cause of the trouble. As soon as you cope with the underlying disease, the lymph nodes will also deflate and cease to be a concern.

Much worse if the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed, and you have no signs of SARS or other infections. In this case, we can talk about systemic inflammation - autoimmune diseases, oncological processes, .

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Here is a list of symptoms, for any of which you should not just go to the therapist, but run:

• The skin over the enlarged lymph node turned red and became hot - this indicates the beginning of a purulent process.
• Lymph nodes in the neck have increased for no apparent reason.
• Lymph glands became inflamed not only on the neck, but also in other places. For example, under the armpits, in the groin, on the elbows.
• Knots don't move when you try to pin them down.
• Enlargement of lymph nodes is accompanied increased sweating, persistent fever (without other symptoms of infectious diseases), unexplained weight loss.
• You have difficulty swallowing or breathing.
• Lymph nodes do not return to normal sizes two weeks or more.

The doctor will either send you to a surgeon to open the abscess, or offer to take a blood test, take an x-ray, or take a piece of an inflamed lymph node for microscopic examination (this procedure is called a biopsy). Depending on the results of the tests, you will be given the appropriate treatment.

How to relieve the condition right now

Make a warm compress

Soak a cloth in warm water wring it out properly and attach it to the neck.

Attention: this method is not suitable if you observe symptoms of a purulent process - redness of the skin over the lymph node, an increase in its temperature. With these symptoms, you need to get to the doctor as soon as possible.

Take a pain reliever

Paracetamol-based products are best. But aspirin and ibuprofen in some cases can do harm.

So, children, adolescents, and people who have problems with blood clotting should be careful with aspirin. In addition, both drugs are contraindicated for. Therefore, it is better to consult with a therapist.

Get more rest

If possible, take sick leave or leave for a couple of days. Rest is necessary for the body to quickly cope with the disease.

To designate the pathological process of inflammation in the tissues of the lymph nodes in medicine, the term lymphadenitis is used. The development of this disease is associated with infection in the lymphatic system. Along the course of all lymphatic vessels, many lymph nodes are periodically found. They differ in size, shape and location. It is through them that lymph flows - a liquid into which an infection can penetrate.

What is the function of our lymph nodes? Why are there so many of them in our body? What causes swollen lymph nodes? What can cause their inflammation? How to treat swollen lymph nodes? What does the situation say when a lymph node inflamed on the neck? What diseases can lead to swollen lymph nodes in the neck? Lymph nodes become the most important barrier that does not allow pathogenic microbes to enter the body. It has also been proven that thanks to the lymph nodes, pathologically altered cells that can turn into cancerous cells are detected and destroyed. It is they who filter and purify the lymphatic fluid from foreign proteins, microorganisms and mutating cells. They contain many lymphocytes that tirelessly fight against various viruses. The lymph passes through a series of nodes and is cleansed in the process. Only after such filtration does it enter our circulatory system. It happens that too many microbes accumulate in the body. In this case, the intensity of the work of the lymph nodes increases significantly. Lymphocytes are produced even more than usual. In this case, the lymph nodes can increase in size and become painful. If inflammation of the lymph nodes has begun, the doctor should decide how to treat it. Self-treatment is simply unacceptable in this case!

Inflamed lymph nodes are a signal that an infection has appeared in the body or dangerous pathological changes. For example, if the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed, this is a sure sign of the development of infectious diseases in the oral cavity, in the upper respiratory tract. In the event that the lymph nodes in the neck are inflamed, what to do and what medicines the therapist or otolaryngologist decides to apply. And in the case of the development of an infectious disease in the oral cavity, qualified dental care may be required. In any case, only a doctor should decide how to treat inflammation of the lymph nodes. The decision on how to treat inflamed lymph nodes should be balanced and deliberate. The doctor takes into account the results of the initial examination, palpation, test data and patient complaints.

The question of how to treat a lymph node becomes relevant when its increase and soreness are observed. Specifically, how to treat lymph nodes, the doctor will tell. Inflammation of the lymph nodes should be perceived not as an independent disease, but as a response of our body to an infectious attack. It's quite normal reaction. In addition, if we take into account exactly where the inflamed lymph node is located (or a group of them at once), then it will be possible to calculate with what specific disease you are dealing. After all, those lymph nodes become inflamed, near which the organs and tissues affected by the infection are located. Such local lymph nodes are also called regional. That is why it will not be superfluous to at least a little navigate in which zones of our body which nodes are located. For example, if you notice that the nodes located in the zone are inflamed mandible, then this may indicate the development of a pathology of a dental nature (periodontitis, caries, etc.). But the inflammation of the nodes in the groin is a signal for the development of the pathology of the abdominal organs.

The onset of inflammation of the lymph node or their entire groups can provoke various reasons. Most often, this leads to the development of a certain disease. There are two types of lymphadenitis:

• specific;
• nonspecific.

If we are talking about specific lymphadenitis, then it occurs due to very serious infectious diseases:

• syphilis;
• tuberculosis;
• AIDS;
• measles;
• leukemia;
• mononucleosis;
• rheumatoid arthritis, etc.

Nonspecific lymphadenitis is observed with the development of acute pathological processes. They occur due to the fact that they penetrate into the body pathogens. They can long time in a small amount to be on our skin and mucous membranes, without causing diseases. But under certain prevailing conditions, they become extremely dangerous, and provoke the development of quite serious diseases. Often, nonspecific lymphadenitis occurs with advanced caries, periodontitis, abscesses, infection during the treatment of diseased teeth, with colds, tonsillitis, toxoplasmosis, lymphangitis, allergies, etc. It can also be provoked by a focus of decay that has appeared in the body.

Symptoms of inflammation

In order to quickly respond to lymphadenitis, it is important to navigate in its possible symptoms. With non-specific inflammation, our lymph nodes enlarge and become sore, especially when touched. As soon as you suspect that something is wrong, the node has become larger than usual, its soreness is observed, immediately consult a doctor. If we are talking about hyperplastic or catarrhal inflammation, then the doctor will easily identify it during probing with initial examination. Suppuration may also be observed. In this case, the patient experiences all the symptoms that indicate intoxication:

• fever
• headache;
• temperature;
• weakness;
• loss of appetite.

The node itself becomes quite painful, thickens, its contours are blurred. There may also be swelling in the area above the inflamed lymph node, redness. Later, an abscess and fluctuation will appear (pus fluctuates, during which the patient feels throbbing pain). It is very important to start treatment of purulent lymphadenitis as soon as possible. Otherwise, the abscess may grow and it will open. In this case, pus can flow inward, affecting the tissues adjacent to it. It is very dangerous. When pus penetrates into nearby organs and tissues, adenophlegmon is formed. It makes itself felt by the formation of a dense painful infiltrate and softened areas. With a putrefactive form of inflammation, the patient may feel a subtle crunch when pressing on the node. If further tissue destruction is allowed, the patient will suffer from tachycardia, fever, and other signs of severe intoxication. He finally loses his appetite, and his body temperature can reach critical levels.

Remember: inflammation of the tissue of the lymph nodes begins with their soreness, enlargement. The intensity of pain will depend on the specific form of the developed disease.

The acute form of lymphadenitis signals itself with a strong sharp pain in the affected areas. The patient suffers from general malaise, headache, weakness, high fever. Often this form accompanies lymphangitis. In the case of non-purulent inflammation, the patient is usually in relatively good health. At this time, the enlarged lymph nodes become denser, gain mobility, and when pressed on them, pain is felt. In this case, the condition of the skin over the site of inflammation does not change.

Adenophlegmon manifests itself in the form of redness of the skin over the affected area, you can feel a dense tumor that does not have clear boundaries, in some places it softens. The patient at the same time feels a strong throbbing pain, he has a very high temperature.

With purulent lymphadenitis, inflammation quickly spreads deeper into cells and tissues. Because of this, blood poisoning occurs. Chronic lymphadenitis almost does not make itself felt. He is painless. The patient only notices that the lymph nodes are slightly enlarged.

Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck

What causes swollen lymph nodes in the neck? Inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes - alarm signal that somewhere nearby there is a focus of infection or a dangerous pathological condition. This inflammation is called cervical lymphadenitis. With it, due to the inflammatory process inside the cervical lymph nodes, they increase significantly, soreness appears. This is a sign that an infection has penetrated into their tissues or a pathological process is occurring in the lymphatic system. Often, such inflammation is observed when the immune system is weakened, if too many pathogenic microorganisms have penetrated, or the tissues of the lymph nodes have been damaged.

So why are the lymph nodes in the neck inflamed? The main causes of cervical lymphadenitis:

1. Infections of the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract.
2. Significantly reduced protective functions immune system. In this case, cervical lymphadenitis often becomes chronic. This can be seen in frequently ill children. Their cervical and submandibular lymph nodes become enlarged. Weakening of the immune system can lead to external factors: anemia, hypothermia, frequent infectious diseases, stress, beriberi, nervous strain. With AIDS, its first symptom is an increase in all groups of lymph nodes.
3. Lymph tissues began to degenerate into cancer cells or a tumor has formed in the lymph node.
4. Happened mechanical damage lymph node, trauma. 5. Less commonly, cervical lymph nodes can be affected chronic form alcoholism, thyroid disease, allergies, connective tissue diseases, metabolic disorders.

Consequences of inflammation

Recall that inflammation of the lymph nodes is the body's response to the penetration of an infection into it or ongoing pathological changes. When dangerous microorganisms enter the circulatory system, the lymph nodes respond to their invasion by more active production of lymphocytes. In order for the inflammation of the lymph nodes to pass, it is necessary to start the treatment of the disease that caused this pathological process in time. When the disease passes, the lymph nodes themselves return to their normal state. If the body was struck by a severe infection and a purulent acute inflammatory process began, you can support the body a little.

What to do if the lymph nodes are inflamed

What to do if the lymph nodes are inflamed? What to do if the lymph node in the neck is inflamed? If you find that one or a group of lymph nodes have become inflamed, there are pain when you press them, you should immediately go to the doctor. Only a specialist can accurately determine the cause of this pathological process. If during inflammation you have a fever, you can drink an antipyretic. If you suffer from headache, general weakness, dizziness, loss of appetite, call the therapist at home and strictly observe bed rest. This is clear signs intoxication.

Be careful with folk remedies and advice from people who do not have medical education. It is categorically impossible, for example, to warm up an inflamed lymph node, rub it, put all kinds of warming compresses in the area of ​​inflammation. This can lead to blood poisoning due to the release of pus. In order to relieve the pain a little, on the contrary, a cool compress should be applied to the inflamed node. Pay attention to whether the skin over the area of ​​​​inflammation has reddened, whether there is a strong throbbing pain. These are all signs that a purulent inflammatory process is developing. In such a situation, immediately call an ambulance! Purulent inflammation of the lymph nodes is extremely dangerous due to the fact that pus is able to break through not only outside, but also inside. In this case, all adjacent organs and tissues become infected. The infection can quickly spread throughout the body. Purulent inflammation is eliminated exclusively by surgery. The surgeon will have to carefully open the affected lymph node and carefully clean out all the pus from it. Then he applies antiseptics in order to completely remove the infection. At the slightest suspicion that inflammation of the lymph nodes is possible, it is imperative to consult a therapist. The doctor will easily determine if you have cause for concern. He carefully examines the affected area, makes palpation, prescribes necessary tests. Very often, such inflammation occurs due to colds. In this case, the doctor will prescribe a treatment regimen for the underlying disease, which provoked such a violent reaction of the lymph nodes. If the treatment is adequate, then soon the lymph nodes should return to their usual size.

In some cases, it is not so easy to establish the exact cause of the inflammatory process. Then an additional thorough examination is required. After receiving its results, the doctor can already prescribe therapy. You may also need to consult more narrow specialists: oncologist, surgeon, endocrinologist. Remember that inflamed lymph nodes are a secondary disease. It only accompanies the process of development of the main. And for the treatment to be effective, the doctor must eliminate the source of the dangerous infection. It is important that it is eliminated by the specialist who understands the underlying disease. For example, a common therapist can cure the flu or a cold. well and oncological pathologies should be done by an experienced oncologist. If the cervical lymph nodes are inflamed, then a competent dentist should come to grips with this problem. As soon as the doctor eliminates the focus of a dangerous infection, the lymph nodes will begin to recover. If you have purulent inflammation, be sure to visit a surgeon as soon as possible.

Diagnostics

As you can see, there are many varieties of lymphadenitis. How can this disease and its types be effectively diagnosed? Primarily. The doctor must carefully examine the patient. Sometimes a visual examination and palpation is enough to determine which group of lymph nodes is inflamed and which diseases could provoke it. Also, the doctor will find out the picture of the anamnesis, that is, carefully interview the patient about what diseases he had before. After examination and detailed questioning, the patient is assigned a blood test. It can help pinpoint the exact cause of the change. Sometimes the lymph nodes can become inflamed due to the development cancerous tumor. To exclude this option, as well as to find out where the dangerous source of infection is located, a computed tomography or x-ray is performed.

Tomography is the most advanced diagnostic method. Thanks to him, you can see in detail the state of the body and possible focus infections. The only problem this method – high price. If these methods did not help to find out the cause of lymphadenitis, the doctor prescribes a biopsy. During this procedure, tiny samples are taken from the tissues of the inflamed lymph node to laboratory research. More precisely, not even the node tissue itself is taken, but the contents from its capsule. This is the most accurate diagnostic method. It allows you to accurately find out which type of lymphadenitis the patient suffers from. To find out the exact cause of the inflammatory process, a series of tests is often prescribed.

Treatment

In order for the treatment to be effective and adequate, the doctor must first establish the disease that has become the root cause for the pathology in the tissues of the lymph nodes. Absolutely wrong is the approach in which the treatment is directed exclusively to the lymph node itself, because it is only a symptom. Such inflammation is a distress signal by which the body lets us know that a dangerous infection has penetrated into its tissues, which it is not able to cope with on its own.

Symptoms of inflammation:

• general weakness;
• loss of appetite;
• dizziness;
• headache;
• heat;
• fatigue.

It is not always good if during inflammation the body temperature remains within the normal range. If it rises, this indicates that the body is actively fighting the infection that has penetrated. low temperature during acute inflammation may be a signal that the immune system weakened considerably. In such cases, the patient may be prescribed a course of vitamins and antibiotics. The doctor will treat the disease that is the root cause of inflammation, but at the same time he should not ignore the patient's complaints about soreness of the lymph nodes and symptoms of intoxication of the body. He should also prescribe symptomatic and restorative therapy. Drugs are prescribed to relieve swelling, soreness. For general strengthening of the body, it is useful to take vitamin C. It will help strengthen the immune system, mobilize all the forces of the body to fight infection. But the main line of treatment should be aimed at combating the underlying disease.

In the case of lymphadenitis, antibiotics are often prescribed. They are used for dental problems, otitis media, infections of the upper respiratory tract, genitourinary system, staphylococcal, streptococcal infections, etc. Doctors prefer to prescribe antibiotics with a wide range actions (azithromycin, vilprafen, benzylpenicillin, etc.). As they say, to definitely work.

Now let's look at a few medicinal products that can be used for lymphadenitis.

Camphor oil. This is a folk remedy that is used to treat inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck and under the arms. It is used in compresses, which should be applied for ten minutes to the inflamed areas. We remind you that the compress should not be warm. Among folk remedies, it is recommended to use anti-inflammatory ointments. They should be applied for a short time to the site of inflammation.

Ichthyol ointment is often used. It has a disinfectant and antiseptic effect. You can lubricate the areas above the site of inflammation with it. You can apply a small thin bandage over the ointment. It is also a folk remedy. Let's just clarify that their effectiveness is in question. It is better to use the means recommended by the doctor.

The people also use streptonitol ointment. It has antiprotozoal and antibacterial action. A couple of times a day, lubricate the skin over the site of inflammation thin layer this ointment, apply a sterile thin bandage over it. It is also recommended to use synalar K, streptocid ointment. But due to possible adverse reactions before using any folk remedies or ointments, be sure to consult your doctor.

In the case of acute lymphadenitis, tablets with bactericidal and antibacterial properties are prescribed. Anti-inflammatory drugs for lymphadenitis will help to cope with inflammation. They are needed, because due to prolonged inflammation, suppuration may begin. Therefore, the doctor, along with the treatment of the underlying disease, must remove inflammation in the tissues of the lymph node itself. Among anti-inflammatory drugs, Limfo-gran is often prescribed.

Antibiotics

Despite our negative attitude towards this group of drugs, they are often simply necessary for the treatment of lymphadenitis. But they must be used initial stage lymphadenitis. Only a doctor should choose a specific antibiotic.

So, we have tried to provide the most detailed and useful information about the types of lymphadenitis, its causes and methods of treatment. At the first sign of inflammation, immediately contact an experienced doctor.

More

Inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, called lymphangitis, acts as a complication of all pathological processes that occur in the lymphatic channel. It is due to the introduction of microorganisms from the primary infectious focus.

The lymphatic system is designed to protect the body from pathogenic bacteria. Lymph healthy person contains immune cells, inhibits growth and eliminates pathogens, purifies the blood and is a barrier to infection. In case of violation immune protection, mass infection occurs inflammation of groups of vessels and nodes, lymphangitis occurs.

The source of pathogenic microflora are purulent-inflammatory diseases skin, deep layers of soft tissues on the arms, neck, and most often the legs. It can be a boil, a banal abrasion or wound, an abscess, phlegmon. Specific lymphangitis usually occurs during the tuberculous process in the body.

Inflammation develops after the lymph absorbs a group of pathogenic bacteria (staphylococcus, streptococcus) from damaged skin or a deep focus. Thus, the lymphatic system itself becomes infected. In addition to the manifestations of lymphangitis, inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes occur: lymphadenitis is added to the process. Treatment should be aimed at eliminating primary focus infections.

Reasons for the development of the disease

The occurrence of lymphangitis is due to the degree of infection of the primary focus, the rate of reproduction of harmful microflora, and the ability of the lymphatic system to self-purify. Pathogenic microorganisms and their metabolic products from the focus of infection penetrate into the interstitial spaces, then penetrate into the capillaries and lymph nodes, reaching large vessels.

The inner layer in the vessels swells, the permeability of their walls increases, fluid and fibers are released, and blood clots form. The causative agents of the disease are bacteria: staphylococci, streptococci, E. coli, other groups of aerobic microorganisms.

Through the capillaries, the infection penetrates into large vessels. Further spread causes damage to the joints, muscle groups, suffers circulatory system. Delayed treatment can lead to inflammation of the lymph ducts in the chest area, on the neck. There are the following classification of lymphangitis:

• according to the nature of the course of the disease: acute or chronic;
• according to the characteristics of the inflammatory process: serous or purulent;
• depending on which vessels are affected: stem lymphangitis (large vessels) or capillary.

The most common lymphangitis of the lower and upper limbs as a result of infection of skin abrasions, minor injuries, panaritium, ulcers. In men, the lymphatic vessels of the penis become inflamed. Urethritis or genital herpes can cause non-venereal lymphangitis. There is a specific form of the disease. It is mainly associated with the presence of tuberculosis in a patient.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The disease is accompanied by a rise in temperature up to 40 °. At the same time, the patient feels weakness, chills occur, sweating increases, and a headache occurs. When superficial capillaries are damaged, the skin turns red, a mesh pattern appears, there is a burning sensation, pain around the inflamed area.

If large vessels are affected, streaks are visible that extend from the infected focus to a group of regional lymph nodes in the neck, or in the groin. With a disease of the limbs, stiffness of movements, vascular thrombosis, edema and enlargement of the lymph nodes occur. During the examination, seals in the form of a cord are palpated along the course of the lymphatic vessels.

With an infectious inflammatory process in the oral cavity, lymphangitis of the face and neck develops. The lymphatic vessels under the jaw, near the ears, on the neck become inflamed, redness and soreness are noted.

Incorrectly located and dilated vessels in the fetus lead to the pathology of the newborn. Lymphangioma - benign tumor. It begins to develop in the embryo in the first trimester of pregnancy. Its signs appear in the baby by the age of one. The most dangerous lymphangiomas located on the neck.

An accurate diagnosis is essential to start treatment. It is installed when an inflammatory focus is detected during the examination. Lymphangitis must be differentiated from phlebitis lower extremities or . With deep lymphangitis for diagnosis, they resort to instrumental examinations based on clinical test results.

Treatment

An important stage is the careful treatment of the primary focus of infection, which caused inflammation of the groups of lymphatic vessels and capillaries. Handle infected wound, the abscess should be opened in medical institution. If these are limbs, then they are given an elevated position for a better outflow of lymph and fixed motionless.

Subsequent treatment is carried out with antibiotics of the penicillin series. Use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, with caution in patients with gastrointestinal erosions. Connect if necessary antihistamines. In the acute period, compresses, ointments, massage are contraindicated, especially for the neck.

During a protracted course of the disease, half-alcohol warming compresses, dressings with medicinal ointments are used. As a physiotherapeutic treatment, ultraviolet and laser irradiation and mud baths.

Treatment of inflammation of deep nodes and vessels is carried out only in a hospital, for which a surgical operation is performed.

For the non-venereal form of lymphangitis, treatment is not required, the inflammation of the nodes goes away on its own after the source of infection is eliminated. During treatment prescriptions traditional medicine can be combined with medications.

Prevention of lymphangitis

Preventive measures are aimed at the timely identification and rehabilitation of all purulent processes in the body: treatment of injured wounds, skin ulcers, inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, other infectious diseases.

It is strictly forbidden to independently treat wounds, scratches, squeeze out acne, especially on the face and neck. The prognosis is favorable if treatment is started on time and adequate antibiotic therapy is carried out. In this case, the healing process takes place in a short time.

Chronic lymphangitis can lead to complications such as impaired lymph movement, stagnation, which is associated with blockage of groups of lymphatic vessels and nodes. Complications are possible if you neglect your own health.