Find care near me Key Points
- Swollen glands, particularly in the neck region, are often a sign that the body is fighting an infection.
- The lymph glands, which house white blood cells, can become swollen due to various infections including tonsillitis, common cold, ear infections, strep throat, and mononucleosis.
- Swollen lymph nodes are usually tender and can be managed at home with a warm compress, over-the-counter pain relievers, and enough rest.
- If the swelling results from a viral infection, home treatments are usually enough as viral infections aren't treated with antibiotics.
- Swelling caused by bacterial infections like bronchitis or pneumonia will require prescription antibiotics for treatment.
If you have swollen glands, it likely means that your body is fighting off an infection. Your lymph glands, also called your lymph nodes, are small, pea-sized clusters of tissue that contain white blood cells. These glands are found all over the body, including your armpit, neck, and groin. When people report of swollen glands, they’re typically referring to the lymph glands found in the neck region, as the lymph nodes in this area are easily accessible and noticeable when swollen.
The most common types of infections that cause swollen glands are:
- Tonsillitis
- Common cold
- Ear infection
- Throat infection, such as strep throat
- Mononucleosis (mono)
Swollen lymph nodes are typically tender or painful to the touch. Home treatments include applying a warm compress to the affected area, taking an over-the-counter-pain reliever, and getting adequate rest. If your lymph nodes are swollen due to a viral infection, home treatments will be the only necessary action since viral infections aren’t treated with antibiotics (these types of infections simply have to “run their course”). However, if your swollen glands are due to a bacterial infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, then you’ll need prescription antibiotics to start feeling better.
Frequently asked questions
What are the common infections that cause swollen glands?
The common infections that cause swollen glands include tonsillitis, the common cold, ear infections, strep throat, and mononucleosis.How can I treat swollen glands at home?
Swollen glands can be treated at home using a warm compress, over-the-counter pain relievers, and getting plenty of rest.Do all infections causing swollen glands require antibiotics?
No, not all infections causing swollen glands require antibiotics. Viral infections, for example, do not require antibiotics and typically resolve on their own with time and home treatment.What are the symptoms of swollen glands?
The main symptom of swollen glands is a noticeable swelling or tenderness, particularly in the neck region.When should I see a doctor for swollen glands?
If the swelling persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by high fever, or if the swelling is caused by a bacterial infection such as bronchitis or pneumonia, it's important to see a doctor.Are swollen glands a sign of a serious condition?
Swollen glands are usually a sign that your body is fighting an infection, which can range from mild to serious. However, if the swelling doesn't subside with home treatment or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, it could indicate a more serious condition.Can I use antibiotics to treat swollen glands caused by a viral infection?
No, antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. Viral infections typically need to run their course and can be managed at home.Where are lymph glands located in the body?
Lymph glands are located throughout the body, including in the armpit, neck, and groin areas.
