Glands in the throat, or lymph nodes, are small clusters of cells that are covered by a protective layer of connective tissue. The main function of glands is to filter lymphatic fluid and drain and remove potentially harmful invaders. Glands in the throat most often swell as a result of an infection from bacteria or viruses, but an autoimmune disorder can also result in swollen glands.
Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis is a viral infection that is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, but can also be a result of an infection with the cytomegalovirus, according to Medline Plus. Mononucleosis is usually spread through salvia and therefore is commonly referred to as "the kissing disease." Mononucleosis begins with a feeling of fatigue, malaise, headache and a sore throat. As the infection progresses, the tonsils become swollen and covered with pus and the glands in the throat become swollen and painful. Other symptoms of mononucleosis include fever, muscle ache, rash and loss of appetite. Antiviral medications are usually ineffective in treating mononucleosis. The infection usually goes away on its own after a few weeks of bed rest, increased fluid consumption and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection that is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. The bacteria are highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact, airborne droplets and indirect contact. Symptoms of strep throat include swollen glands in the throat, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils that are often covered in pus, fever, headache, rash, nausea, vomiting and fatigue, according to Mayo Clinic. Strep throat is treated with oral antibiotics, usually penicillin or amoxicillin, and it generally takes 24 hours until the infection is no longer contagious. If left untreated, the infection causing strep throat can spread to the sinuses, skin, blood or kidneys. It may also cause rheumatic fever, a serious condition that affects the heart.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues in the major organs, skin, joints and blood vessels. The cause of lupus is unknown, but it is more likely to occur in women of African American, Hispanic, Asian and Native American descent, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. The most common symptoms of lupus include swollen glands in the throat, pain and swelling in the joints, muscle pain, fever, rashes, chest pain, hair loss, leg swelling, fatigue and sensitivity to the sun. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually occur in episodes called flares. Treatment for lupus consists of a combination of medications aimed at reducing swelling, reducing pain and balancing hormones.
