Lymph nodes in the head and neck are part of the immune system and are a filter for a plurality of pathogens, holding them in the way and preventing current lymph circulation. In the human body there are about 500 lymph nodes located along the route of the lymph.
In the case of pathological processes inflamed lymph nodes, which leads to their increased and morbidity.
The content of the article:
- 1 The structure of the lymph nodes in the head as they look
- 2 What functions are performed by the lymph nodes in the head
- 3 The circuit arrangement of the lymph nodes in the head
- 4 What is inflammation of the lymph nodes in the head
- 5 Symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the head
- 6 The causes of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
- 7 Diagnosis of lymph node inflammation in the head
- 8 Prevention of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
-
9 Methods for the treatment of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
- 9.1 Medications
- 9.2 Traditional methods
- 9.3 Other methods
- 10 possible complications
- 11 Video of the lymph nodes in the head
The structure of the lymph nodes in the head as they look
All lymph nodes located in the human body, have the same structure and can differ only in size. Lymph node is a capsule round or bean-shaped in size from 2.5 to 5.0 mm.
Its structure is represented by the presence of 2 elements:
- capsule with an impurity of the muscle fibers;
- inner space.
The structure of the lymph nodes in the head
Externally lymph node is covered by connective tissue, inside - lymphoid tissue which, in turn, has two layers:
- cortical;
- Brain.
In the inner part of a lymph node located walls that divide it into sections. Each partition has its own content, represented by lymphocytes, plasma cells and reticulocytes.
Each lymph node is connected to the lymphatic vessels. Since the convex portion of the assembly is a valve that prevents reverse lymph drainage. A concave side are the "gateway hub" - a place where feeding penetrate his nerves and veins, and lymph displayed.
What functions are performed by the lymph nodes in the head
The main function of the lymph nodes located at the head and the neck, is to protect the immune system against the ingress of pathogens.
Other functions of the lymph nodes:
| immune function | The nodes are formed blood components:
|
| The filter function | By percolation through the lymph nodes, lymph cleaned of harmful microorganisms, which prevents them from entering the body. |
| Protective function | Macrophages, which are produced by lymph nodes, contribute to the destruction of bacteria and viruses that enter the blood stream. |
| backup function | Lymph nodes store the lymph fluid rich in lymphocytes. |
| barrier function | Thanks to its intensive work, the lymph nodes are the barrier and storage of malicious objects penetrating into the body. |
The circuit arrangement of the lymph nodes in the head
The lymphatic system has a branched structure consisting of a plurality of major blood vessels, and on the path which the nodes are arranged. Lymph nodes on the head, the location of which has a sufficiently intricate circuit, together with other lymph nodes form groups, depending on their localization.
Lymph nodes cervical region located on the sides, front and rear, can be superficial or deep-seated.
Deeply buried sites are located:
- the rear side wall of the pharynx;
- supraclavicular depression;
- area of the superior vena cava.
The group of superficial lymph nodes are:
- chin;
- occipital;
- neck;
- ear;
- submandibular.
| genial | Located at the bottom of the chin. Lymph flow is directed from the chin to the submandibular lymph nodes. |
| occipital | Localized in the back of the neck |
| neck | Divided into anterior and posterior cervical. Front lymph nodes are found in the internal jugular vein. Posterior cervical nodes located between the collarbone and the area of the temporal bone. |
| ear | With the localization of the auricles at the base of the neck |
| submandibular | Located beneath the jaw bone on both sides. They include chin and tonsillar lymph nodes. |
What is inflammation of the lymph nodes in the head
Swollen lymph nodes - a swollen lymph nodes due to inflammation specific or nonspecific nature. Inflammation of the lymph nodes - the activation of the barrier function of the lymphatic system, which is aimed at limiting the spread of infection throughout the body.
Lymph nodes are increased due to diseases or penetration of infection into the lymph through the skin damage. Infectious agents enter the lymph nodes via the lymphatic fluid outflow, which results from the lesion.
Symptoms of inflammation of the lymph nodes in the head
Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the head and neck shown symptomatic:
- an increase in the amount;
- tenderness and turns of the head;
- skin redness in the inflamed site;
- fever (in some cases);
- signs of intoxication;
- general malaise.
In some cases, there lymphadenitis development, which has a sharper display.
Namely:
- sharp or throbbing pain in the lymph nodes;
- presence of high temperature (38-39S);
- formation of purulent focus node in the location area;
- Strong headache;
- in inflammation of the neck or submandibular nodes - limitation of neck movement.
The causes of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
The lymph nodes in the head (the location of the enlarged nodes determines the estimated source of infection) inflamed due to various reasons, the main of which is the infectious process in regional area. Depending on the reasons, allocate specific and non-specific inflammation of the lymph nodes.
Specific lymphadenitis represents the primary process and develops due to penetration organism pathogens that provoke infectious diseases, which are characterized by loss lymph nodes.
These include:
- tuberculosis;
- syphilis;
- viral infection (measles, rubella, mononucleosis)
- Tumor different nature;
- leukemia;
- AIDS;
- fungal infections (pityriasis versicolor, trichophytosis);
Nonspecific lymphadenitis is a secondary process on the background of an existing infection. Divided into infectious and traumatic lymphadenitis.
Cause infectious inflammation are:
- angina;
- laryngitis;
- tracheitis;
- sinusitis;
- otitis;
- dental diseases with severe inflammation (gingivitis, stomatitis, glossitis, periodontitis):
- pustular lesions of the skin and subcutaneous fat;
- allergic reactions.
Traumatic lymphadenitis provoke a variety of mechanical injury lymph nodes.
Also cause of lymphadenitis may become autoimmune diseases:
- lupus erythematosus;
- rheumatoid arthritis;
- sarcoidosis;
- Sjogren's syndrome.
Diagnosis of lymph node inflammation in the head
Diagnosis of lymph node inflammation involves a range of activities, which consists of clinical, laboratory and instrumental methods. The selected method of diagnosis will depend on the reasons for the increase of the lymph nodes and the presence of concomitant symptoms.
Clinical diagnostic method - initial medical examination and palpation of lymph nodes involved, drawing the patient's medical history.
The laboratory methods include:
- The general analysis of blood and urine tests - to help understand the nature of the pathological process and sort out the next steps.
- Analysis of blood titer of ABL-O - is carried out during inflammation and submandibular glands of the neck, emerging angina, sinusitis, tonsillitis. This analysis allows to determine the extent of systemic spread of infection through the body, and the probability of the presence of streptococcus infection. Average analysis of the price - 500 rubles.
- The blood test for antibodies to Toxoplasma - is assigned when there is no specific symptoms to exclude the presence of toxoplasmosis. Cost Analysis - 1000 rubles.
- Blood tests for AIDS and HIV shows prolonged lymphadenitis, which is accompanied by lesions of the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals. Price analysis in clinics - from 500 to 800 rubles.
- Analysis of blood markers of systemic lupus erythematosus - is assigned when a persistent increase in lymph nodes in combination with accompanying symptoms: rash on the face, chronic fatigue, differences in body temperature, headaches pains. The average cost - 4000 rubles.
General blood and urine tests
By instrumental methods of diagnosis include:
- Orthopantomogram held in inflammation of the lymph nodes in the submandibular area and the presence of dental problems. Panoramic picture of the teeth to determine the localization of the pathological process. Price research: from 1000 to 1600 rubles.
- X-rays of the sinuses facial skull is indicated for inflammation of the cervical and occipital lymph nodes after suffering a cold or flu. Research is needed to rule out sinusitis. X-ray price - from 600 to 1000 rubles.
- Chest X-ray and fluoroscopy are required for suspected tuberculosis. Price - from 300 rubles.
- Ultrasound, CT or MRI is prescribed for inflammation of lymph nodes in combination with weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite. These symptoms may indicate a malignant process development. The cost of research method will depend on the location of the organ being examined.
- Needling is carried inflamed lymph node with suspected presence of a specific systemic disease or oncology. The study reveals modifications or malignant cells. method of price - from 3000 rubles.
Prevention of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
Preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of lymph node inflammation focus on early treatment of existing diseases and disorders.
Other common regulations for prevention of lymphadenitis include:
- support immunity;
- exclusion of hypothermia;
- Timely vaccination against major infectious diseases;
- avoiding occurrence microtraumas wounds and skin;
- personal hygiene;
- timely readjustment of the oral cavity;
- regular medical examination.
Methods for the treatment of inflammation of lymph nodes in the head
The choice of treatment of inflamed lymph nodes in the head and neck depends on the disease provoked by lymphadenitis and aimed at its elimination. Often, complex treatment involves the use of antibacterial, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
Medications
Antibacterial agents are appointed, when the cause of inflammation of lymph nodes are serious infectious diseases.
The most effective are:
- Antibiotics penicillin. Apply with staphylococcal and streptococcal infections. These include:
- Ospamoks - a preparation in powder form for slurries, bactericidal effect, is 4-hydroxy analogue of ampicillin. The single adult dose is 250-500 mg, depending on the severity of the disease. The interval between doses is not less than 8 hours. Price: from 60 rubles.
- Flemoksin Salyutab - oral broad-spectrum antibiotic. Individual dosing regimen and is 250-500 mg at one time. The duration and frequency of administration depends on the complexity of the disease. Price: from 250 rubles.
- Augmentin - preparation in the form of tablets, having resistance to Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms. The dosage is prescribed individually. Duration of from 5 to 14 days. Average price: 140 rbl.
-
Tsefolosparinovye antibiotics:
- Supraks - preparation in the form of pellets for the preparation of acting bactericidal solution. It has a wide range of activities. Dosage regimen: 2 times a day 200 mg. The minimum duration of reception of 5 days. Price: from 600 rubles.
- Ceftazidime - a broad spectrum antibiotic with bactericidal properties. Adopted, otitis, sinusitis, septic states. Dosing regimen: the drug is administered intramuscularly at 1 g every 8 hours. The duration of treatment is prescribed individually. Price: from 80 rubles.
- Cefepime - germicide for parenteral use. It is used for infections of the lower respiratory tract. The drug is administered intravenously or intramuscularly for 0.5-1 g every 12 hours. The treatment duration of 7 to 10 days. Average price: 97 rbl. per bottle.
Antiviral drugs are used in the presence of viral infections provoked lymphadenitis. These include: various strains of influenza, Epstein-Barr disease, herpes, measles, chicken pox.
The most effective means:
- Izoprinozin - preparation having immunostimulatory and non-specific antiviral effect. The recommended dose is 50 mg in 3 divided doses. Duration of treatment: 5-14 days. The cost of preparation: from 550 rubles.
- Arbidol - an antiviral agent in the form of capsules, used for the treatment of influenza, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. Recommended dose: 1 capsule twice a day. Duration of treatment: 5-7 days. Average price: 200 rbl.
- Amiksin - interferon inducer for the treatment of herpes infections, influenza and SARS. Dosing regimen: 125 mg 1 time per week for 6 weeks. Price: from 550 rubles.
Anti-inflammatory drugs act directly on the inflamed lymph nodes.
Divided into:
- non-steroidal;
- pain relievers;
- klyukortikoidy.
Nonsteroidal agents retard the formation of inflammatory components, reduce swelling, soreness and redness. By an effective nonsteroidal drug refers Nimesil. Present in the form of pellets for the preparation of suspensions and is intended for symptomatic therapy.
Applied 2 times a day 1 sachet. The maximum treatment duration is 15 days. Average price: 300 rbl. 9 sachets. glucocorticoids group drugs relieve swelling, soreness and discomfort during inflammation of lymph nodes.
These include:
- Dexamethasone - injection, exerting anti-inflammatory effects. Dosage and duration of the reception mode are determined individually. The day may be administered from 4 to 20 mg 3-4 times. Price: from 105 rubles.
- Hydrocortisone - oral agent. The dose is adjusted individually by your doctor. In most cases, taking 1 tablet every day in the morning in the range from 6 to 8 o'clock. Cost: about 100 rubles.
Traditional methods
Lymph nodes on the head, the location of which is associated with large vessels in the body, can be treated with folk remedies, in the case of inflammation. The use of popular recipes advocates supporting component part of complex treatment.
It is considered the most effective:
-
Tincture of chamomile and calendula in inflammation of the submandibular lymph nodes.
1 tbsp. l. dried flowers pour 200 ml of boiling water for 1 hour. Apply as a rinse 3-5 times a day.
- Decoction of pine needles in inflammation of all groups of lymph nodes in the head and neck. 2 tbsp. l. needle shoots pour 300 ml of water. Put on low heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Infuse a decoction for 1 hour. Take 50 ml 3 times per day with honey.
- Tincture of the leaves of aloe. Mark is the number of plants to the output thereof turned 100 ml of juice, washed, crushed and squeeze the juice. Stir the resulting liquid with 1 tbsp. l. honey and 300 ml dry red wine homemade. Infuse the resulting solution in a cool place for 3 days. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.
- Decoction of echinacea. Take 3 tbsp. l. dried root of Echinacea and pour 400 ml of water. Boil to simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and the solution was added 50 g of fresh peppermint. Cool and strain, add 3 tbsp. l. honey. Take 30 ml of broth 3 times a day.
Other methods
An important role in the treatment of inflammation of the lymph nodes play a physical therapy procedures, which include:
- electrophoresis with drugs;
- ultrahigh-frequency therapy (uhf-therapy)
- galvanization;
- laser therapy.
Physiotherapy makes it easier to penetrate the center of inflammation and optimize the flow of lymph.
Despite the effectiveness of the method, there are contraindications to its use:
- Tumor;
- tuberculosis;
- fever;
- signs of intoxication.
The lymph nodes in the head, the location of which determines their classification, inflammation electrophoresis respond well to treatment. The method is static electric pulses to achieve a local effect. Thus, various drugs, which passes through the galvanic current and transfer them to the fabric. The average cost method is: 600 rub.
When UHF treatment under the influence of electromagnetic break inflammatory processes by structural changes in tissues. The price of the procedure in clinics: from 450 to 600 rubles. When using a laser is an improvement on the impact of blood flow whereby the flow is carried molecular oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues.
This reduces swelling, inflammation and pain. During the procedure the patient is affected light waves. Cost method: from 850 rubles. electroplating method consists in simultaneous action on the affected area of the current and low voltage.
This contributes to the launch of a variety of biochemical processes in the tissues, which leads to better blood circulation and reduce pain. Surgery is indicated for purulent lymphadenitis when required purulent center opening to prevent further infection.
possible complications
The lymph nodes in the head and neck, in the case of prolonged inflammation, and absence of treatment, regardless of location, may lead to serious complications. The most common adverse effects resulting purulent inflammation of the lymph nodes.
Possible complications:
- skin abscess;
- sepsis;
- lymph fistula formation;
- violation of lymphatic drainage;
- thrombophlebitis;
- encephalitis;
- osteomyelitis.
The lymph nodes in the head and neck can become inflamed due to a variety of reasons. Usually, lymphadenitis is not a single disease, but a symptom of pathological process. Location enlarged and painful lymph node indicates the nature and form of the disease.
Video of the lymph nodes in the head
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