Swollen glands

When you have swollen glands, the lymph nodes in your body become abnormally bigger. The lymph nodes filter the clear fluid that circulates through your the lymphatic system that helps rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. Your lymph nodes increase in size when your body is fighting an infection. You can find the lymph nodes at different places around your body such as your neck, armpit, between your thighs, or under your chin. A swollen gland is usually not a problem because it returns to its normal size after the infection goes away.

Any of the following may cause your glands to swell:

• Bacterial infections such as sore throat, tetanus, tuberculosis and some sexually transmitted diseases can cause swollen glands.
• Viral infections such as the common cold, measles, polio, HIV and hepatitis may also cause swollen glands.
• Medicines that treat malaria or epilepsy like quinidine or phenytoin may cause your glands to swell.
• It can also be a sign of cancer spreading to different parts of your body.

It is important to visit your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following about your swollen glands:

• Glands that are swollen for more than two weeks in adults or 5 days in children.
• Swollen glands that are hard and are not movable.
• Pain when you touch the swollen gland or when you move the area around it.
• Other symptoms like fever, weight loss, night sweats or coughing may also mean you need medical attention.

You can't prevent a swelling in the lymph nodes, but you can reduce the severity of the discomfort by following self-care tips. If you continue to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations, you can reduce your risks of swollen glands.

Self-care tips:

• Ensure you get enough sleep daily (at least 7-9 hours a night for adults). Getting enough sleep can relieve stress and improve your body’s defence against disease.
• Include fruits (e.g. oranges, watermelon) and vegetables (e.g. spinach, efo tete) in your diet.
• Avoid smoking or taking alcohol to improve your body’s defence system.
• Wash your hands often and cook your foods well to prevent infections.
• Taking paracetamol or other pain relievers may make you feel better.

Treatment Options:

• Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections such as tuberculosis.
• Your healthcare provider may also prescribe antiviral medications to treat viral infections such as hepatitis.

Swollen glands show that your body is fighting an infection. Try to wash your hands regularly, eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep and do more exercises to help your body fight infections better. Swollen glands are usually not a sign of a serious disease. However, do pay a visit to your healthcare provider if your swollen glands do not return to their normal size within two weeks.