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Lymphadenopathy means swelling of the lymph nodes or glands. These
are the bean-shaped glands in the neck, armpits, groin, chest, and
abdomen. These glands act as filters for lymphatic fluid. This fluid
contains white blood cells (lymphocytes) that help the body fight
infection. Lymphadenopathy can occur in just one area of the body,
such as the neck. Or it may affect lymph nodes throughout the body.
The cervical lymph nodes, found in the neck, are the most common
site of lymphadenopathy.
Nearly all children will get lymphadenopathy at some time. That is
because enlarged glands often occur with viral or bacterial
infections like colds, the flu, or strep throat.
What causes lymphadenopathy in a child?
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. The immune system
fights infection and other disease. Cells and fluid build up in the
lymph nodes to help fight infection or disease. This causes the
lymph nodes to get bigger.
Enlarged lymph
nodes are often near the source of infection, so their location
can help find out the cause. For example, a baby with a scalp
infection may have enlarged lymph nodes at the back of the neck.
Swollen lymph nodes around the jaw may be a sign of an infection in
the teeth or mouth. Lymphadenopathy may also affect lymph nodes
throughout the body. This is common in some viral illnesses such as
mono (infectious mononucleosis) or chickenpox.
The causes include:
* Infections caused by viruses or bacteria
* Infection of a lymph node or small group of nodes
* Cancer, although other symptoms are often present
* Reactions to medicines such as some antibiotics and seizure
medicines
* Juvenile arthritis and many other joint conditions that affect
children
What are the symptoms of lymphadenopathy in a child?
In children, it is normal to be able to feel some lymph nodes as
small, movable lumps under the skin. But if the nodes get bigger
than usual, your child may have an infection or other problem. The
most common symptoms include:
* Lumps under the jaw, down the sides or back of the neck, or in the
armpits, groin, chest, or belly
* Pain or tenderness in the area
* Redness or warmth in the area
Depending on the cause, other symptoms may include:
Fever
Respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, and cough
Poor appetite
Body aches
Headache
Tiredness
The symptoms of lymphadenopathy can be like other health conditions.
Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a
diagnosis.
How is lymphadenopathy diagnosed in a child?
Your child’s healthcare provider will ask many questions about your
child’s health history and current symptoms. For example, he or she
will ask whether your child has been around others with infections
like strep throat. He or she may ask if your child has been around a
young cat. This is because a scratch may cause enlarged lymph nodes
in a mild condition called cat scratch disease. He or she will check
your child, looking closely at the areas where lymph nodes are
enlarged.
The provider will check the size and location of the nodes. He or
she will also want to know how long they have been swollen and if
they are painful. Your child may need to see a specialist. He or she
may also need some diagnostic tests. They may include:
* Lab tests. A complete blood count called a CBC. A CBC checks the
red blood cells, white blood cells, blood clotting cells, and
sometimes young red blood cells. Urine and other blood tests may
also be done.
* Chest X-ray. Pictures of the chest to check for enlarged lymph
nodes or other problems.
* Lymph node biopsy. After 3 to 4 weeks, enlarged lymph nodes may be
checked with biopsy. Samples of lymph node tissue are taken and
looked at under a microscope.
Your child may need to see a surgeon for biopsy. Or he or she may be
referred to specialists in blood disorders and cancer. These can
include a pediatric hematologist and oncologist.
How is lymphadenopathy treated in a child?
The treatment of enlarged lymph nodes depends on the cause.
Enlarged lymph nodes are often harmless and go away without any
treatment. Treatment may include:
* Antibiotic medicines to treat an underlying bacterial infection,
such as strep throat, or ear or skin infections
* Antibiotic medicines and drainage of the lymph node for infection
of a lymph node or small group of nodes
* A follow-up exam to recheck enlarged nodes after waiting for 3 to
4 weeks
* Other medicines or procedures to treat other conditions that
caused the enlarged nodes
* Referral to specialists for incision or drainage or more exams,
diagnostic tests, and treatment
What are possible complications of lymphadenopathy in a child?
Lymphadenopathy is the body’s normal response to infection and other
disease. Ignoring the enlarged lymph nodes may delay treatment of a
serious infection or other disease.
When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?
Call your child’s healthcare provider if:
* You notice lumps below your child’s jaw, down the sides of the
neck, in the back of the neck, in the armpits, or in the groin
* Your child’s lymph nodes continue to be larger than normal, even
after your child sees his or her healthcare provider
Key points about lymphadenopathy in a child?
* Lymphadenopathy is the term for swollen glands or swelling of the
lymph nodes.
* The lymph glands are part of the immune system and help fight
infections and other disease. They are enlarged when the body is
fighting infection or other diseases.
* Since enlarged lymph nodes are often near the source of infection,
their location can help find the cause.
* Diagnosis of lymphadenopathy is often based on the presence of
other conditions, such as an infection.
* Treatment is usually based on the cause of the lymphadenopathy.
* Ignoring lymphadenopathy may delay treatment of a serious
infection or other disease.
Next steps
Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s
healthcare provider:
* Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
* Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
* At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new
medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new
instructions your provider gives you for your child.
* Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will
help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
* Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
* Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results
could mean.
* Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or
have the test or procedure.
* If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date,
time, and purpose for that visit.
* Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours.
This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions
or need advice.