The most common causes of swollen lymph nodes in the throat include a cold, tonsillitis, strep throat, or a spreading ear infection. Other conditions, such as cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and mononucleosis, can also cause swollen lymph nodes, but these conditions are much less common. The swelling often responds to treatment with home remedies or antibiotics, depending on the cause, and the swelling usually subsides within a couple of weeks.
There are several groups of lymph nodes throughout the body as part of the human lymphatic system. They contain groups of white blood cells, called lymphocytes, which play an important role in the immune system: they create antibodies that fight viral and bacterial infections. When the immune system tries to fight these foreign substances, the lymphocytes multiply. If the infection persists, it can spread and cause swollen lymph nodes in various parts of the body.
The common cold often leads to swollen lymph nodes in the throat, along with discomfort, fever, and a runny nose if it is an upper respiratory infection. The lymph nodes in the neck may feel tender in someone with a cold. Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve symptoms.
Strep throat can also cause swollen lymph nodes. A person with this condition may have trouble swallowing, a headache, and a stiff neck. Health professionals commonly recommend extra fluids and rest, along with antibiotics, to treat strep throat. Gargling with warm salt water helps some patients feel better, as does using numbing sprays to relieve pain. If symptoms last more than four days, medical treatment should be sought.
The lymph nodes in the tonsils can also become inflamed and swollen when infected. These nodes drain fluid towards the back of the throat. Infected tonsils usually appear red and may develop white spots, indicating infection; Other symptoms include a change in voice and bad breath. Mild tonsillitis may not need any special treatment, but if a throat culture indicates a serious infection, such as strep throat, a medical professional may prescribe antibiotics. Surgical removal of the tonsils may be necessary if tonsillitis becomes chronic.
Lymphomas, which are cancers of the lymphatic system, can enlarge the lymph nodes; Swollen lymph nodes in the throat are a common symptom of Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is actually a group of 16 different diseases, is characterized by night sweats, weight loss, fatigue, and fever. Hodgkin's lymphoma is less common than non-Hodgkin's forms and has many of the same symptoms. Both forms of cancer can be treated effectively if diagnosed early.
Any disorder that affects the immune system could hinder the body's ability to fight infection. HIV can lead to frequent infections, causing swollen lymph nodes anywhere in the body. It also increases the risk of certain forms of cancer, including lymphomas. Medical professionals usually prescribe medications to relieve symptoms in patients with HIV.