Tuesday, March 12, 2013

How to reduce swollen lymph nodes in neck?

Finding a lump in the neck can be very frightening as we all know that lumps indicate cancer. In most of the cases, the lumps are nothing but swollen lymph node / lymph glands. Lymph nodes, the small bean-shaped lumps of tissues are found singly or in groups all over the body. There are about 500 to 600 lymph nodes in the body, but we never feel them until they are swollen or enlarged. They can enlarge to the size of marbles or even larger. Swollen lymph nodes are generally experienced in areas like neck, groin, under the chin or in the armpits. Swollen lymph node in neck is caused by many reasons. You can easily decrease the inflammation and get relief from discomfort with number of remedies. Just, refer the article and learn home remedies to reduce swollen lymph nodes in neck.

How to reduce swollen lymph nodes in neck?

Image source: healthtap.com
Lymph nodes are an important part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system transports lymph fluid between the body tissues and the circulatory system. The lymph nodes filter the lymph fluid as it passes through them as well as trap bacteria, viruses and other foreign particles, which are then destroyed by lymphocytes (white blood cells). The neck region has around 300 lymph nodes that are recognized as cervical lymph nodes. The swollen lymph node in neck is caused by many reasons such as flu, mononucleosis, mouth sores or infection (throat, skin, tooth or ear), cancer, immune system disorders and HIV. Swollen glands are usually tender and painful when you press them gently.

Generally, swollen lymph nodes in the neck will return to normal size in 1 to 2 weeks. But, you must seek professional advice if the problem continues for more than 3 weeks along with the symptoms like fever, weakness, weight loss, drenching night sweats and chills.

Treatments for Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck

Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen are standard treatments for swollen lymph nodes in neck. These drugs not only ease pain but also reduce fever. Never give aspirin to kids without discussing with your doctor. Pain relievers can cause Reye's syndrome in kids.
How to reduce swollen lymph nodes in neck?
Image source: healblog.net

Home Remedies for Swollen Lymph Nodes in Neck

Warm Compress
Applying warm compresses to the affected area helps to decrease swelling and pain. For warm compression, simply soak a washcloth or small towel in water and wring the excess water. Then put the cloth on the swollen lymph till it becomes cool. Repeat this process.

Salt Water
Make salt-water gargle by mixing 1/2 tsp salt in 1 cup of water. Use this mixture for gargling several times a day. This will decrease swelling and help the swollen lymph nodes reduce in size.

Basil Leaves and Cinnamon
Boil 2 tsp of both, basil leaves and cinnamon in 3 cups of water for 10 - 15 minutes. Then, sieve the mixture and sip it in small sips. Drink it three times a day.

Milk and Turmeric
Add a pinch of turmeric powder and pepper powder in one cup of milk and boil it. You can also add some sugar for taste. Drink it just before going to bed for about 3 nights.

Turmeric
You can even use turmeric to make tea or use as a gargle. Mix 1/2 tsp turmeric powder in 1 cup of warm water, and then gargle several times a day. For making tea, boil 1-inch piece of fresh turmeric root in two cups of water for 15 minutes. Strain the mixture and sip the tea 2 - 3 times a day.

Lemon and Honey
Take one cup of lukewarm water and add some fresh lemon juice and honey (2 tsp). Drink the concoction after mixing it well.

Gentle Massage
Massaging the affected area with a gentle pressure increases blood circulation in the area and decreases the pain & swelling. Just rub the finger tips slowly and gently by applying some pressure over the infected area. Don’t apply too much pressure.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Drink a shot of organic and unrefined apple cider vinegar daily for three days. This is an excellent remedy for swollen lymph nodes in neck.

Seasalt and Baking Soda
Take water (one glass) and add seasalt (one tsp) & baking soda (one tsp). Mix them well and drink once in a day.

Video of Lymph Nodes Head and Neck from youtube:

2 comments:

thank you, i had the swellings for a month when was a kid, now am 23 and it re-occurred on my right side of the neck, it really freaked me out but have already started taking Aspirin and the the other antibiotics i have, i hope it will help, don wanna have cancer in me!never!

aspirin and antibiotics wouldn't cure your cancer

Post a Comment

Twitter Delicious Facebook Digg Stumbleupon Favorites More