Lymphadenitis (Lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes)

A doctor typically diagnoses lymph node inflammation through a physical examination. The doctor will feel around the location of various lymph nodes to check for swelling or sensitivity. They may also ask you about any associated symptoms, such as those listed above.

Your doctor may order blood tests to check for infections. They may order imaging tests as well, such as X-rays or CT scans. These can look for tumors or sources of infection.

Because a wide range of conditions can cause lymph node inflammation, your doctor may request a biopsy. A lymph node biopsy is a short procedure in which the doctor removes a sample of lymph tissue. A pathologist will test this sample. This type of doctor examines tissue samples and interprets lab results. A biopsy is often the most reliable way to determine why lymph node inflammation has occurred.

Treatment for lymph node inflammation depends on its cause. In some cases, treatment may not be necessary. For example, treatment is unlikely to be recommended for:

healthy adults whose bodies are already conquering the infection

children, whose active immune systems can result in frequent swelling

If treatment is required, it can vary from self-treatment to surgery and other therapies.

Self-treatment

Your doctor is likely to advise using a fever-reducing painkiller, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), along with a warm compress. Elevating the swollen area can also help relieve inflammation.

Medication

In other cases, a course of antibiotics may be used to help the body fight the infection that’s causing lymph node swelling.

Abscess draining

If a lymph node itself becomes infected, an abscess may form. Swelling will usually go down quickly when the abscess is drained. To do this, your doctor will first numb the area. Then they’ll make a small cut that allows the infected pus to escape. The area may be packed with gauze to ensure healing.

Cancer treatment

If your lymph node swelling is due to a cancerous tumor, there are a number of treatment options. These include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, and radiation. Your doctor will discuss each of these options, including their pros and cons, before starting your treatment.