Author:
Monica Porter
Date Of Creation:
21 March 2021
Update Date:
1 July 2024
Content
There are several lymph nodes in our body that play a role in preventing harmful bacteria and viruses. If the lymph nodes are swollen, you can treat them by treating any underlying damage, infection, and disorders. The neck, groin, and armpits are usually sites with swollen lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes in two or more locations are usually a sign of a systemic disease. To reduce swollen lymph nodes, you need to treat the cause. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are usually prescribed. If the infection is caused by a virus, you may be given medication to control symptoms and wait for the illness to heal on their own. If cancer is suspected, you will be tested for a biopsy to diagnose and treat. You should ask your doctor for advice.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Reduce swelling in the short term
Locate swollen glands. When it starts to feel swelling or pain, run your fingers over the skin for swollen glands. Lymph nodes are in the neck, armpits, and groin. The nodule can swell to the size of a pea to the size of an olive or larger.- Remember that there may be more than one swollen lymph node at the same time.
Take over-the-counter medications. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce swelling around the lymph nodes. It may also help relieve other symptoms, such as a fever. Be sure to take over-the-counter medications according to the directions on the label.
Apply a warm compress to the lymph nodes. Catch a clean washcloth under warm, running water. Place a hot washcloth on the swollen lymph node and let it cool until it cools. Apply this compress 3 times a day until the lymph nodes are smaller and the pain subsides.
- Warm compresses can help reduce swelling by increasing blood circulation to the affected area.
Apply a cool compress to the lymph nodes. Place a cold washcloth on the ganglia for 10-15 minutes each time. Do this 3 times a day until the swelling subsides.
Lymph massage. Gently pressing and rubbing the lymph nodes can help reduce swelling by increasing blood circulation to the affected area. You can make an appointment with a therapist or do a self-massage if you can reach the swollen lymph node. Gently massage over the ganglion while pressing your fingers toward the heart.
Do not press firmly against the affected area. If you press too hard on the nodes, the surrounding blood vessels can rupture and cause further damage and even infection. It is most important to remind children of this principle, as they may be impatient and try to press on the lymph nodes. advertisement
Method 2 of 3: Get medical attention
Make an appointment with your doctor. In many cases, swollen lymph nodes appear and go away without causing any major problems. However, if the lymph nodes continue to grow or begin to harden, you may need to talk to your doctor. They will examine and may order blood tests or scans, depending on the possible diagnoses.
- Swollen lymph nodes can be caused by a variety of infections, including infectious mononucleosis, tuberculosis, ear infections, pharyngitis, and measles.
- Seek medical attention if swollen lymph nodes suddenly or overnight.
Quickly treat these infections to avoid dangerous complications. If the swelling is caused by an infection, the lymph nodes will not return to their normal size until you recover. If you hesitate to treat the underlying medical problem, an abscess may form around the swollen lymph node. In more severe cases, you can get a bacterial blood poisoning.
Take antibiotics as prescribed. If you believe you have swollen glands caused by bacteria, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Be sure to finish your course of antibiotics, even if you feel better when you haven't finished the course. Antibiotics are not of choice in the case of viral infections.
Keep track of symptoms. If the swollen lymph nodes are caused by disease or infection, you may have other symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms will help you and your doctor know how to treat underlying medical conditions. Associated symptoms include: fever, runny nose, night sweats, or sore throat.
Understand that recovery will take many days. Although the lymph nodes may improve overnight, this is very unlikely. Usually, the pain should be relieved for a few days, but the swelling can take several weeks to subside.
Lymph node drainage surgery. If the infection progresses, the lymph nodes can turn into an abscess filled with pus. When this happens, you may need to have a medical professional drain the lymph nodes to reduce your risk of a more serious infection, especially with an abscess in the neck area. advertisement
Method 3 of 3: Treat with natural remedies
Eat raw garlic. Several compounds in garlic can help fight infection of the lymphatic system. Crush 2-3 garlic cloves, spread on bread and eat. Eat this every day and watch for less swelling.
Drink a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. Mix 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar with a full glass of water and drink 2 times a day until you feel better. The acetic acid in the vinegar will help the body get rid of bacteria that can cause abscesses in the lymph nodes.
Get enough vitamin C. With a deficiency of vitamin C, the body is not able to effectively fight infections. You can get more vitamin C by taking a supplement or by eating foods high in vitamin C like oranges and berries. If you decide to take a supplement, talk to your doctor first.
Rub tea tree oil over the swollen skin. Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 2-3 drops of coconut oil. Use a cotton swab to rub the mixture over swollen lymph nodes. Do not more than 2 times a day to avoid skin irritation. advertisement
Advice
- Make sure to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night, especially if you are sick.
Warning
- If breathing is difficult due to swollen glands in the neck or head, seek immediate medical attention.
