July 6, 2009

Font Size
A
A
A

Swollen Lymph Glands (cont.)

Medical Treatment

A lymph node that is rapidly growing over one to two days has a different cause and treatment than generalized swelling of lymph nodes that occurs over a few months. Express concerns with a doctor at the time of examination because this helps to establish a diagnosis.

  • Standard treatment for swollen lymph nodes may include pain relievers and medicine to lower a fever, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Warm compresses and elevation may help reduce and resolve swelling.
  • If the cause of the swelling is infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications.
  • If there is a localized abscess, it may need to be drained by cutting open the skin and then filling the opening with packing.
  • If a person has an immune disorder, he/she may be prescribed medication to help with the disease.



Next: Next Steps »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz

Boost Your Immune SystemBoost Your Immune System
Your immune system attacks foreign invaders with specialized white blood cells. Find out how to use diet and exercise to help. See more WebMD Videos »


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Lymph Node Disorders »

Lymph nodes are considered to be the fortresses that aid immunologic defense.

Read More on eMedicine »

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow

Search Medical Dictionary