Are you getting lumps in your neck or armpit? Let's talk about Swollen Lymph Nodes

Do you sometimes feel a small lump when you touch your neck, armpit, or groin ? Some people call this a 'pimple'. Many people get scared when they see something like this, wondering, "Is this some kind of disease?" In fact, these swellings mean that your body is fighting against some germ. So before you get scared, let's understand this exactly.

What exactly are these lymph nodes?

Simply put, these glands are like little checkpoints in our body's immune system . We medically call these lymph nodes . There are about 600 of these lymph nodes throughout our bodies, like a network of police checkpoints.

Imagine that our body is a big city. A liquid called 'lymph fluid' flows along the streets of this city. This fluid, along with the nutrients our cells need, can also contain germs like bacteria and viruses that are harmful to us. At that time, these checkpoints called lymph nodes filter that lymph fluid, capture the harmful germs in it, and destroy them. Just like the security forces of our country, these protect our bodies from diseases.

Where are these located on the body?

You're probably most familiar with the lumps on either side of your neck. We call them `cervical lymph nodes.' In addition, they are mainly located in:

• In both armpits
• In the groin area (where the thighs and abdomen meet)
• Under the hood
• Behind the ears

Although we can feel the lumps in these places, these lymph nodes are located in places deeper than we can imagine, such as inside the chest and abdomen.

Then why are these bumps swelling?

Imagine, what would happen if our country was attacked by an enemy? More soldiers would arrive at the security forces' camps, and the camps would become active. That's how it is.

When a germ, such as a virus or bacteria, enters your body, your immune system produces more fighter cells (lymphocytes) to fight that germ. Many of these cells gather in these checkpoints called lymph nodes. Then those nodes temporarily swell and get a little bigger.

Most of the time, this swelling is caused by simple, easily treatable conditions. However, in rare cases, there can be serious causes.

What are the situations when you should definitely see a doctor?

Usually, a swollen ankle, which occurs after an illness like a cold , will return to normal within a few days or two to three weeks after the illness has passed. However, if you have any of the following symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor without delay. These could be signs of a serious illness.

• The lump suddenly and very large swells.
• If it feels hard like a rock in your hand, and if the lump doesn't move when you push it.
• Swelling that does not go down for more than 5 days in young children or 2-4 weeks in adults.
• If the skin around the lump is red or purple, feels hot, or appears to be oozing pus .
• If you suddenly lose weight for no reason.
• If you sweat at night (Night sweats).
• If you have a fever that lasts for several days .
• If the bumps are swollen in several places at once, such as the neck and armpits.

Be very careful about these symptoms. Don't ignore them.

What kind of tests will the doctor do?

When you go to see a doctor, he will first ask you about your symptoms and examine you. The location of the swelling can sometimes give you an idea of ​​the cause.

Then, depending on the need, one or more of the following tests may be recommended to pinpoint the cause:

• Blood tests : To check for infections or other diseases.
• Scans:
• Ultrasound scan: Check the nature of the lump (is it fluid-filled or solid).
• CT scan or MRI scan: Take a detailed look at the lumps inside the body and the surrounding organs.
• Biopsy: This is the most important test. This involves taking a very small piece of tissue from the swollen lump and examining it under a microscope. This test is essential to confirm if there is a suspicion of cancer.

Are there any treatments that can be done at home?

If your swollen ankle is due to a simple cause, such as a cold, and your doctor has confirmed it, these things can help reduce the discomfort until the condition heals:

• Warm compress: Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place it on the swollen, painful area. This may help reduce the pain a bit.
• Rest: Getting enough rest gives your body the strength to fight the infection and heal faster.
• Painkillers: You can take a painkiller like paracetamol. However, if you are giving aspirin to children or young people, consult a doctor first.