There are many reasons why lymph nodes swell. Check out these seven conditions that can cause swollen lymph nodes.
1. Ear Infection
It’s no secret that pain is a hallmark of ear infections. But they also cause swollen lymph nodes. According to the Mayo Clinic, an ear infection (acute otitis media) results from a bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny, vibrating bones of the ear. Inflammation and fluid buildup often occur around the middle of the ear, causing pain. Though ear infections can resolve themselves, antibiotics are often required. This is especially true for infant ear infections. It's important to seek medical attention for ear pain that doesn't subside.
2. Mono
Ever heard of “the kissing disease?” That’s mononucleosis, and one of the signs of mono is swollen lymph nodes. According to the Mayo Clinic, the mono virus is transmitted through saliva, so kissing can transmit it, but so can a cough, sneeze, or sharing a glass or food utensils with someone who has mono. The good news is that mono isn’t spread as easily as a cold. And really, it’s most common in young people. So your chances of getting it are less as an adult. It’s also important to note that mono can incubate for long periods of time (usually four to six weeks). So you might not know you’ve got it for a while.
Along with swollen lymph nodes, the signs of mono can include fatigue, an all-over sick feeling, a sore throat (especially one that doesn’t respond to antibiotics), fever, enlarged tonsils, headache, rash and an enlarged spleen. Fever and sore throat can subside in two weeks, whereas swollen lymph nodes and an enlarged spleen can linger.
To recover from mono, two things are essential: fluids and plenty of sleep. In addition, it’s important to watch for spleen swelling. And of course, see a doctor as soon as possible if mono is suspected.