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Lymph nodes in your child and what you need to know
Did you know that there are hundreds of lymph nodes scattered throughout our bodies that play an important role in the immune system. Swollen lymph nodes can sometimes be seen in adults and in children as well. Could lymphadenopathy pose any danger to children?
It can be said that the lymph nodes are an important part of the body's immune system. These lymph nodes are small, soft, circular or oval in shape and are connected by chain-walled lymphatic vessels. The inside of the lymph node consists of immune cells (lymphocytes) that are responsible for capturing viruses or bacteria from entering the body, then the white blood cells begin to approach and destroy them.
In the body, there are about 600 types of lymph nodes scattered in positions such as: armpits, behind ears, below jaw, behind nape, in front of ears, behind knees, elbow joints, groin ... Lymphadenopathy is not dangerous.
What are the symptoms of lymphadenopathy in children?
Lymphoma is a condition that occurs when the body is fighting an infection, at which point the lymph nodes begin to swell. Children are frequently exposed to allergens, as well as new infections, which explains why their lymph nodes are larger than adults.
Usually, you don't have to worry much if your child has lymph nodes. These signs indicate that the baby's body is working well against infections, such as mesenteritis (a condition in which the lymph nodes in the mesenterus attach the intestines to the inflamed abdominal wall).
Lymph nodes in different sites can cause many different types of infections. Therefore, if parents are found to have lymphadenopathy, parents should not be too worried. Excessive swollen lymph nodes may indicate an infection. At this point, you should take your child to see a doctor.
What causes lymphadenopathy in children?
Lymphadenopathy is a warning sign that your body is having health problems such as an infection, an allergic reaction to medication or even a disease. In addition, there are a number of cases where a child has local lymphadenopathy because the body reacts to an external agent. Some of the causes of lymph node disease in children can include the following:
1. Inflammation of the lymph nodes
Lymph nodes can swell when they become infected.
2. A viral infection in the throat
It is the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes in the neck area. Lymph nodes in the neck range in size from 0.5 to less than 2 cm in size and appear similar on both sides of the neck.
3. Children with cavities or abscesses
In the case of your child with caries, usually only one nodule is swollen and located under the child's jaw.
4. Swollen, enlarged lymph nodes in the groin
This is caused by skin infections such as ringworm or possibly contact with a foreign object that can also cause swollen glands in the groin area.
5. Swollen lymph nodes spread
This is usually caused by an infection in the blood, such as an Epstein-Barr virus infection in mono disease (also known as a disease of the kisses) or a broad rash like eczema.
6. Infections of the throat area
This bacterial infection is the cause of the baby's cervical lymph nodes on one side and quite large, about 2cm in size. Swollen lymph nodes caused by a throat infection can also be caused by tonsillitis.
The mechanism can be explained as follows: When suffering from tonsillitis, the body "mobilizes" white blood cells, antibodies to the tonsil area to fight the pathogens. This makes the white blood cells and antibodies more concentrated in the lymph nodes in the neck, causing them to swell.
In addition, some respiratory infections also cause swelling, lymph nodes in the neck area.
7. Floating lymph nodes in the armpit
Skin problems such as impetigo, a rash or toxic ivy can also cause a child to develop swollen and enlarged lymph nodes.
8. Infection through scratches on the body
Sometimes your child is susceptible to mild infections caused by abrasions on the body during exercise and play.
Symptoms when the child has lymphadenopathy
Here are the symptoms of lymphadenopathy you may experience in your child:
Fever
Sore throat, cough, and stuffy nose
Soreness in the affected area
Hot or red swelling in the area where the lymph nodes are
Headache
Tired
Fatigue all over the body
Tumors formed under the jaw, armpits, groin, chest, back of neck ...
Sometimes the lymph nodes can become infected with bacteria, a condition known as lymphadenitis . If your child experiences this, the nodules may become enlarged, painful, and more painful to the touch. They can also be more red and swollen and accompany the child's fever.
If the condition is found earlier, the baby can take an oral antibiotic . In more severe cases, your baby may need intravenous antibiotics and take pus from infected nodes.
How to treat lymphadenopathy in children?
Swollen lymph nodes are a sign of various infections. Therefore, the doctor will need to carefully examine the shape, size, color, and condition of the nodules to determine the cause.
Usually, when a child has lymphadenopathy, there is no need for treatment, because they disappear on their own after a while. However, if your child has lymphadenopathy due to a bacterial infection, some antibiotics may be prescribed along with pain relievers in case the child has severe pain. Treatment of the lymph nodes also depends on the underlying cause.
If your child is experiencing a sore throat, fever, and lymph nodes that continue to grow or don't go away for weeks, see your doctor. In addition, when you notice a strange bruise or if your child has nosebleeds, mouth of unknown cause, or even weight loss, you should take him to the nearest medical facility for examination. Note that nodules larger than 4cm are a serious condition and require medical attention.
Although the problem of swelling and lymphadenopathy in children is quite common and usually resolves on its own, parents need to understand the cause and nature of the lymph node disease in order to have a timely treatment!
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