Lymph glands, or lymph nodes, play a vital role in the immune system, which protects the body from infection. The lymph system is made up of organs, cells and molecules located throughout the body. Lymph nodes are found in the neck, under the chin, in the chest, under the arms and in the groin. They can be swollen for many reasons. Swelling is typical when lymph glands are fighting infection, and it can also occur from certain types of cancer.
HIV/AIDS
The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is the virus that causes AIDS. HIV attacks the immune system and destroys cells that are vital to fighting infection. The HIV virus can spread through unprotected sex and injecting drugs with shared needles. A month or two after infection, some people experience symptoms such as enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and groin, fever and fatigue. Others can remain symptom-free for 10 years or more, says the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Medications called antiretrovirals treat HIV/AIDS by suppressing the virus, sometimes to undetectable levels. They do not cure it, and patients are still able to spread the virus.
Mononucleosis
The Epstein-Barr virus causes mononucleosis, or mono, an infection that typically presents with a fever, a severe sore throat and swollen neck glands. Fatigue is common. The spleen and liver sometimes swell. Mono is spread through direct contact with saliva, such as occurs during kissing. A swollen neck gland may be the only symptom of infection, according to Merck Manuals. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms of sore throat and fever, and corticosteroids may be used in severe cases. Mono usually resolves in one to two weeks, although fatigue can last for weeks or months, in rare cases. A ruptured spleen is a possible complication.
Hodgkin Lymphoma
Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer of the lymph system. The cause is unknown, although evidence exists that it may be caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, says the Merck Manuals. The first sign of Hodgkin lymphoma is a painless swelling of a lymph gland in the neck, armpit or groin. Fever, night sweats, itching skin, fatigue and weight loss are common. Coughing and chest discomfort can occur if lymph glands in the chest are affected. Chemotherapy and radiation are common treatments for Hodgkin lymphoma, and the disease is curable in most cases.
