There are numerous lymph nodes in the body, which act as filters against harmful bacteria and viruses. If they have swollen, you can begin to reduce the swelling by treating the underlying wound, ailment, or infection. The lymph node stations that most commonly become inflamed are those located in the neck, groin and armpits. If the condition affects two or more glandular areas, it means the problem is generalized. To cure lymphadenopathy, it is necessary to take action on the cause. If it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are usually prescribed; if it is viral, it is possible to take drugs to manage the symptoms, but you will have to wait for it to heal on its own. If you suspect a tumor, a biopsy will be needed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Consult your doctor for the best treatment to follow.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Relieve Swelling in the Immediate
Step 1. Locate swollen lymph nodes
If you start to feel swelling or pain, feel until you find the affected glands. They can swell in the neck, armpits, and groin area. The volume is variable: they can grow as large as a pea, take on the size of an olive or become even larger.
Remember that more than one lymph node may swell at the same time
Step 2. Take an over-the-counter medication
Paracetamol and ibuprofen help keep swollen lymph glands at bay, as well as relieve other symptoms, such as fever. Make sure you take any medication by following the directions in the package insert.
Step 3. Use a warm compress
Turn on the faucet and place a clean cloth under warm water, then place it over the affected lymph node. Hold it in place until it cools down. Repeat this 3 times a day until volume and pain subside.
The warm compress relieves swelling by increasing the blood supply to the inflamed area
Step 4. Apply a cold pack
Put a cold cloth on the lymph node every 10-15 minutes. Repeat this 3 times a day until the swelling tends to subside.
Step 5. Get a lymphatic massage
By applying gentle pressure to the lymph nodes, you can increase blood supply by reducing swelling. Make an appointment with a massage therapist or, if you can locate the affected glands, massage yourself. Gently rub it while pushing your fingers in the direction of the heart.
Step 6. Don't squeeze the swollen skin
If you apply too much pressure, there is a risk that the surrounding blood vessels will rupture causing further damage or even an infection. It is important to remind children of this rule because, if they have discomfort, they may try to compress the swollen areas.
Method 2 of 3: Seeking Medical Treatment
Step 1. See your doctor
In many cases, the lymph nodes swell and deflate without creating major problems. However, if they continue to enlarge or begin to swell, don't hesitate to see your doctor. He will see you and, depending on his diagnostic suspicion, may order blood tests or an ultrasound.
- The increased volume of the lymph nodes can be caused by several infections, including mononucleosis, tuberculosis, ear infections, sore throat and measles.
- See your doctor if they swell suddenly or overnight.
Step 2. Cure any infections quickly to avoid dangerous complications
If they swell due to an infection, they don't regain their normal size until you heal. If you hesitate to treat the underlying condition, there is a risk of an abscess developing around the enlarged lymph nodes. In severe cases, even blood poisoning may occur due to bacteria entering the bloodstream.
Step 3. Take the antibiotics according to the prescription
If your doctor thinks lymphadenopathy is caused by the presence of harmful bacteria, he or she may prescribe antibiotics. Go through all therapy, even if you begin to feel better. If the infection is viral in nature, antibiotics are not needed.
Step 4. Look out for other symptoms
If the swollen lymph glands are caused by a disease or infection, you will likely experience other symptoms. Individual to help the doctor understand how the underlying condition can be treated. For example, you may have a fever, runny nose, night sweats, or a sore throat.
Step 5. Please note that the recovery will take more than a few days
Although the resilience of the lymph nodes is fast, it is unlikely that they will suddenly become inflamed. Often, the pain may subside within a few days, but the swelling may take several weeks to go away.
Step 6. Undergo lymphatic drainage
If the infection progresses, the lymph node can turn into a purulent abscess. In these cases, it may be necessary to carry out a drainage to avoid a worsening of the condition. It is especially important if the abscess is located in the neck area.
Method 3 of 3: Treating Swollen Lymph Nodes with Natural Remedies
Step 1. Ingest raw garlic
The chemicals contained in garlic help fight infections affecting the lymphatic system. Take 2-3 cloves of garlic and crush them. Spread them on a slice of bread and eat it. Repeat this every day and see if the swelling goes away.
Step 2. Make a water and apple cider vinegar solution
Fill a glass of water and pour one tablespoon (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar. Drink this mixture 2 times a day until you feel better. Acetic acid will help the body rid itself of harmful bacteria that can cause an abscess in the swollen lymph node area.
Step 3. Get enough vitamin C
If you are deficient in this vitamin, your body is unable to fight infections effectively. You can increase your intake by taking supplements or by eating foods that contain it, such as oranges and strawberries. If you opt for the supplement, be sure to tell your doctor.
Step 4. Rub tea tree oil on the swollen area
Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree essential oil with 2-3 drops of coconut oil. Use a cotton ball to apply the solution to the inflamed lymph nodes. Repeat this 2 times a day at the most, so as not to irritate the skin.
