Do you want to know if there is a connection between swollen lymph nodes and allergies? Are you also struggling with swollen lymph nodes and desperate for answers? Well, let us help you.
You will learn all about swollen lymph nodes and their connection with allergies. Keep reading as we look into the details of this blog.
Can Allergies Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Yes, swollen lymph nodes can be caused by allergies. Although they are usually caused by infection, allergies can also be the culprit in a few cases. Below, we will check out different types of allergies and their relationship to swollen lymph nodes. Moreover, we will learn about its treatments if you are suffering from it.
What are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are small bean-shaped lumps of tissues that are scattered throughout the body. These vital nodes form clusters and act as key filtration points for lymph. It is responsible for clearing fluid that circulates through the body’s lymphatic vessels. These are integral parts of our immune system.
What do they do?
Lymph nodes serve the purpose of checking harmful things like allergens in the immune system. They act like protectors and keep an eye on any harmful substances that may enter the body. Lymph nodes remove the allergens or germs that are unwanted substances. Hence, they cleans the lymphatic fluid. Moreover, they also detect the damaged cells and send signals to other immune cells. These immune cells perform the role of repairing the damaged cells or removing them. In this way, our body functions properly.
Following are their functions:
- Filtering and Purification: Lymph nodes act as filters and hold onto allergens or germs before spreading into our body. They catch and remove harmful substances by sending them to other immune cells of the body. So, together with immune cells, they eliminate germs from the body.
- Immune Response Activation: Lymph nodes contain lymphocytes and macrophages that recognize the infections, engulf and destroy them. Both lymphocytes and macrophages work together and stop the harmful germs and strengthen our body.
- Production of Lymphocytes: Our immune system needs the services of lymph nodes for creation of new immune cells. Lymph nodes also help them to grow and develop into strong defenders. In this way, these matured immune cells are capable of detecting and fighting with harmful invaders.
- Monitoring Cellular Health: Lymph nodes detect such cells that are growing and multiplying without limitations. Our immune system recognizes and eliminates them before they pose harmful reactions.
How do allergies affect your lymph nodes?
Allergies cause an immune response in our body. Due to this response, the body releases chemicals like histamine and others. This effect can cause inflammation and swelling. Allergies affect your lymph nodes in this way.
It can be affected by different types of allergies. Some of the most notable among them are seasonal allergies, food allergies, pollen allergies, and others. Let’s understand the relationship between swollen lymph nodes and different types of allergies in detail.
Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies can also be the reason for your swollen lymph nodes. It is usually caused by the response of the immune system when it is exposed to allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites. It is because your lymph nodes have to work harder and release immune cells to fight them.
Allergic asthma and lymph nodes
The second allergy on our list is allergic asthma. It could also affect your swollen limbs. It is because your airways are constricted in this condition. It can cause problems like chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. Alongside these effects, it could also cause problems with your lymph nodes.
Food allergies and swollen lymph nodes
Food allergies can also impact the lymphatic system. When the immune system reacts to certain foods, it triggers an inflammatory response that can cause swollen lymph nodes. Moreover, food allergies can also weaken your immune system and make you more exposed to infections.
Sinus infections and lymph nodes
Sinus infections can cause discomfort and often lead to swollen lymph nodes and the surrounding areas. Runny nose, post-nasal drip, and facial pain, along with these conditions, are symptoms of sinus infections.
Lymph Nodes and Pollen Allergies
Pollen allergies are a common cause of allergic reactions. The body’s impact on the lymph nodes is one of its common responses. The interaction between pollen allergens and the lymphatic system usually causes swelling in the lymph nodes.
How to Treat Swollen Lymph Nodes from Allergies
The best way to treat swollen lymph nodes from allergies is to consult a doctor and follow his prescribed medications and advice. Alongside it, here are some other methods as well that can provide you with relief from it.
- Take an over-the-counter allergy medication. Taking OTC allergy medicines can block histamine. This can help in relieving allergy symptoms and eventually your swollen lymph nodes as well.
- Take pain relievers. Taking pain relievers can also reduce pain and inflammation in your lymph nodes. These medicines will also reduce tenderness in the affected area. You may take ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
- Warm compresses: Warm compresses on your lymph are also helpful for temporary pain relief. You may use a soaked cloth with warm water for this purpose.
- Get enough rest: Taking enough rest and quality sleep will help boost your immune system. It is also beneficial in the treatment of swollen lymph nodes.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated is essential for a healthy immune system. Drink plenty of fluids during the day; it will boost your recovery process.
Final Words
Yes, allergies can cause swollen lymph nodes. Although allergies have direct links with it, they have not been discovered yet. But our immune system, as a result of allergies, may cause some changes that are responsible for them.
The primary reason for swollen limbs is infection, but if it is frequent and you also have an allergy, then that may be the reason as well. Try the above treatment methods to treat it. For a serious infection, you should get a complete diagnosis and follow the doctor’s treatment.
