Lymph nodes are small glands throughout the body that filter foreign substances and fight infection. Children frequently have swollen lymph nodes around the neck and face when they have bacterial or viral infections. In most cases, these swollen glands indicate that the body is effectively fighting the infection. Swollen lymph nodes that last for several weeks or months, however, may indicate a serious underlying illness. Consult your child's pediatrician if you are concerned about her swollen lymph nodes.
The Lymphatic System
The textbook, "Biology: Life on Earth With Physiology" reports that the lymphatic system is an important component of the human immune system. It removes debris, infection and foreign particles from the body. Lymph fluid is filtered through the lymph nodes and then enters the blood. Lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infection, collect in the lymph glands.
Lymph Gland Location
Lymph glands are distributed throughout the body. The most common site of swollen lymph nodes is in the neck and underneath the jaw. The groin lymph nodes, which are located where the thigh meets the body, and the underarm lymph nodes also commonly swell in response to infection. Swollen lymph nodes are typically soft and rubbery. They may be slightly sore.
Children and Infection
Lymph glands usually swell when children are fighting infections. Parents often think of infections as bacterial illnesses that are fought with antibiotics, but any pathogen in the body is treated by the body as an infection. Influenza, the common cold, strep throat, bronchitis and allergies may cause swollen lymph glands. Pediatricians frequently determine the location of the infection by noting the location of swollen lymph nodes. Swollen glands in the throat, for example, typically indicate an infection in the throat or mouth.
Chronic Illnesses
Some illnesses cause lymph nodes to remain permanently swollen. The epstein-barr virus, which causes mono, often results in a neck lymph node that is permanently swollen. Whenever a lymph node remains swollen for an extended period of time, however, consult your child's doctor. Swollen lymph nodes in several areas of the body may indicate a chronic illness or autoimmune disease. Though it is very rare in children, lymphoma may cause swollen lymph nodes throughout the body. Lymph nodes that are very hard instead of soft and rubbery should be of particular concern.
References
- "Biology: Life on Earth with Physiology, 9th Edition"; Gerald Audesirk, et al.; 2010
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, et al.; 2011
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lynn R. Marotz; 2011
- "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, Fourth Edition"; Mayo Clinic; 2009
