It can be worrisome to find something out of the ordinary in your body, even more so when it is an area that is easily palpable or externally noticeable. The ganglia are part of the defense system. They function as a filter against many infectious and inflammatory diseases, which is why they can increase their size in various processes. However, swollen glands need not be problematic; sometimes, touching the glands permanently can cause them not to return to their standard size.
More complicated diseases such as autoimmune or tumors can cause chronic lymph node enlargement in fewer cases.
We invite you to discover in the following FastlyHealarticle: ” What happens if the lymph nodes do not return to their size? “.
Table of Contents
Why are the nodes swollen?
The ganglia are structures that are part of our body’s defense system. To understand it better, they are stations arranged throughout the body to limit infections and body inflammations. They respond to stimuli by increasing their size and favoring the action of defense cells needed at that time. They function as filters trapping viruses and bacteria.
The nodes are grouped to drain the different areas of the body. Thus, some nodes work on the site of the head, others on the neck, and others on the arms or breasts. The lymph nodes will increase in size according to the body area that infection or inflammation has compromised. In this way, by observing the ganglion groups, it is possible to determine where the root of the problem is. There are also some diseases in which all or a large part of the ganglionic structures of the body are affected, such as the case of mononucleosis, for example.
The most common cause of swollen glands is a viral infection, but it can also be caused by pharyngitis, otitis, skin infections, pediculosis, or dental problems.
Other less common causes are, for example, HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis.
Some autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, or more complicated such as certain types of cancer, can also cause an enlargement of the lymph nodes, although they are less frequent.
It is easier for an infection or inflammation to be maintained over time when our habits promote the imbalance of our body. Eating an unhealthy diet, not exercising, living under stress, or sleeping poorly are factors that quickly lead to illness.
Lymph nodes that do not return to the size
The lymph nodes usually return to their standard size after a time that the cause that originated their inflammation has been resolved. This is normal. The time it may take to return to their usual size varies. After a viral infection, the nodes will remain swollen for about two weeks. Conditions that are larger or involve a more significant number of ganglionic groups may take a little longer. The best thing to do is to wait and not worry since the most common is that they deflate on their own.
However, in some cases, there may be nodes that do not return to their original size, and this may be due to the following:
Permanent palpation
A common mistake that favors the permanence of the swollen nodes is their manipulation. If you notice that there is a swollen lymph node and you touch it permanently, you are causing a reaction in it.
Therefore, try not to do so to cause the inflammation to subside.
Ganglion abscess
In this case. More pain, inflammation, and even fever and suppuration will appear. This is usually more common in the case of low defenses, as is the case with chronic diseases such as diabetes.
It is necessary to treat the infection locally and frequently with antibiotics. Still, the most important thing is to review and modify lifestyle habits since these are usually key to returning to balance.
Unresolved infection
If the infection that generates the lymph node inflammation has not yet been treated correctly, it is to be expected that the lymph nodes will remain inflamed. Some conditions develop few symptoms, and the nodes are the ones who warn of what is happening.
It is essential to consult a doctor and be attentive to other symptoms you suffer.
Proper treatment will most likely bring the nodes back to normal.
Immune system disease
Sometimes it is the nodes that are directly affected by an imbalance. In these cases, it is also essential to correct the underlying problems so that the nodes decrease their size.
Tumor diseases
The abnormal growth of cells can also manifest itself in the lymphatic system since everything that is not normal is filtered there. On the other hand, some tumor diseases can also affect the lymph nodes as a first measure. In that case, treatment is usually aimed at the origin of the tumor.
What to do if the nodes do not return to their size?
A professional medical consultation can guide you to find out if a node has been swollen for too long or not. On the other hand, a complete health examination and questioning and even some studies are necessary to find the reason for your problem.
Whatever the reason why one or more nodes do not return to their standard size, it is essential to pay attention to how your body is. Know what imbalance is causing this or other health problems. Thinking only about the symptom, a swollen lymph node, may not bring you the answer. A deeper review of your organism, body, and mind are keys to returning to your actual balance.
Covering up a symptom with medicine usually gives only superficial answers to a fundamental problem. Think about your digestion, how you sleep, what activities you do, what worries you, and what you eat. Leading a healthier lifestyle and identifying what does not do you good implies that you become more responsible for your health and that the solution to your problem is deep and genuine.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.