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How is cervical lymphadenopathy treated?
What is bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy (BCL)?
Can medications cause cervical lymphadenopathy?
Mar 11, 2024 · Treatment for cervical lymphadenopathy will vary based on the underlying cause, and will typically resolve with appropriate treatment of the underlying condition. Infectious conditions may require a course of antimicrobial medications, while autoimmune conditions may need anti-inflammatory medications .
- Overview
- Possible Causes
- Care and Treatment
- When to Call the Doctor
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck are common among children and adults. Usually, infections like cold or flu are the culprit. But sometimes, serious conditions can cause such swelling in your neck (and often in other areas). If you notice lumps in your neck, call a healthcare provider. They’ll identify the cause and tell you if you need treatment.
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OverviewPossible CausesCare and TreatmentWhen to Call the Doctor
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What are the most common causes of cervical lymphadenopathy?
Most often, swollen lymph nodes in your neck are a sign of an upper respiratory infection (like a common cold) or an infection in nearby tissues. Viral infections are the most common cause of cervical lymphadenopathy in children. These issues are usually temporary and/or treatable. However, there are many other possible causes, and some are more serious. The causes fall into several general categories, described further below: Infections. Cancers. Autoimmune diseases. Other conditions. Reactions to medications. Depending on the cause, you may notice swollen lymph nodes in other areas of your body besides your neck (like your armpits or groin).
How are swollen lymph nodes in the neck treated?
Healthcare providers decide the best treatment for you based on what’s causing your swollen lymph nodes. For example, you might need antibiotics if you have a bacterial infection like strep throat. For viral infections, you might just need plenty of rest and fluids. For more serious conditions like cancer, your provider will talk to you about your treatment options and what you can expect going forward. Advertisement
Can cervical lymphadenopathy be prevented?
You can’t always prevent swollen lymph nodes. They often happen unexpectedly, like when you’re sick with a viral or bacterial infection. Other times, they happen due to an illness that affects your whole body. You can prevent many of the contagious infections that cause swollen lymph nodes by: Washing your hands at appropriate times, including after touching commonly shared objects or caring for someone who’s sick. Disinfecting surfaces like countertops and doorknobs in your home and workplace. Boosting your immune system by eating nutritious foods and getting enough sleep. Getting the vaccines your healthcare provider recommends (like the flu shot). Care at Cleveland Clinic Find a Primary Care Provider Schedule an Appointment
When should swollen lymph nodes in the neck be treated by a healthcare provider?
If you notice unusual lumps in your neck or elsewhere in your body, you should call a healthcare provider. Tell them what you’re feeling and if you have any other symptoms. Your provider will tell you if you should come in for a physical exam. During an exam, a provider will feel the lumps in your neck. They’ll also check other areas of your body for swollen lymph nodes and other signs of illness or infection. Be prepared to share your medical history (any past or current diagnoses), as well as your family history (diagnoses among your biological parents or siblings). If your provider suspects you might have a more serious condition, they may order some tests, including: Blood tests. X-rays or other imaging tests. Lymph node biopsy. Your provider will explain each test you need, and why. If tests reveal an unexpected diagnosis, take the time to learn more about the condition and what it means for you. Remember, your provider is there to listen to your concerns, answer your questions and refer you to specialists as needed. A note from Cleveland Clinic It’s common to worry when you notice something feels different in your body, especially when you know it can be a sign of a serious condition. Fortunately, swollen lymph nodes in your neck usually aren’t a cause for concern. These lumps are often just a temporary sign that your body is working hard to get rid of an infection. Still, it’s a good idea to call a healthcare provider when you notice swollen lymph nodes in your neck or anywhere else in your body. They’ll talk to you about your symptoms and may ask you to come in for an exam. Learning the cause isn’t serious can give you peace of mind. Or, learning you have a more serious condition can allow you to begin treatment as soon as possible. With many conditions, the sooner you get a diagnosis and start treatment, the better your chances of a good outcome. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 09/13/2023. Learn more about our editorial process.
Jul 7, 2023 · Treating Cervical Lymphadenopathy. Treatment depends on what is causing your lymph nodes to swell. Cervical lymphadenopathy usually resolves on its own when the underlying condition is...
Response to antibiotic treatment. Examination. LN groups in the head and neck region: Characterise the lump: location, size, colour, warmth, mobility, tenderness, overlying skin changes. Unilateral or bilateral. Features on palpation: eg soft, rubbery, firm, matted, fluctuant, discharging, Neck range of motion.
Jun 26, 2018 · Swollen cervical lymph nodes can be a normal occurrence. They may indicate certain localized infections or injuries. In some cases, they may indicate cancer. We'll explain the purpose of...
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Treatment Options. Comments. More. Cervical lymphadenopathy is not considered a serious condition in itself; however, it may point to certain infections and some types of cancer. Cervical lymphadenopathy refers to the condition in which swelling occurs in the lymph nodes present in the neck.
Sep 24, 2021 · Bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy (BCL), which refers to swelling on both sides of the neck, is most commonly caused by viral infections of the. upper respiratory tract. . Adenoviruses. and. enteroviruses. are the most common causes of acute BCL, while Epstein-Barr virus ( EBV. ) and. cytomegalovirus. ( CMV.
