metastases, or the spread of an existing cancerĬertain risk factors make a person more likely to have a malignant lymph problem, such as lymphoma.Much less commonly, swollen lymph nodes can also indicate a malignancy, or cancer, including: Immune disorders that can cause swollen lymph glands include: InfectionsĮxamples of infections that can cause swollen lymph nodes can include:Ĭat scratch fever, which is also called cat scratch disease, can cause localized lymph node swelling in the area near the cat scratch. The following sections discuss the possible causes of swollen lymph nodes in more detail. When more than one region swells, this is called generalized lymphadenopathy, and it usually signifies a systemic, or body-wide, disease that may require medical attention. Most people have localized lymphadenopathy, in which only the lymph nodes in one particular area of the body swell up. It is important to contact a doctor to discuss any possible side effects of medications. These conditions can include:Ĭertain medications can also cause swelling.

Many different conditions cause the lymph nodes to swell, particularly the nodes in the head and neck. For example, an ear infection may cause swollen lymph nodes near the ear, while someone with an upper respiratory tract infection may notice swollen lymph nodes in their neck. The location of the swelling often relates to the affected area. The swelling occurs as a result of immune cell activity in the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes may swell when a person has an infection. Lymph nodes also contain immune cells that help fight infection by attacking the germs that the body’s lymph fluid has collected. The lymph nodes filter the fluid and release it back into the bloodstream together with salts and proteins. While doing so, it collects and traps harmful matter, such as bacteria, viruses, and bodily waste products. Lymph fluid flows in and out of the lymph nodes throughout the body before finally making its way back to the chest. The main lymph nodes that people may see or feel are found: The human body has hundreds of lymph nodes. The lymph nodes collect and filter fluids, waste materials, and harmful germs. Share on Pinterest Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy United

Lymph nodes back of the neck