Swollen glands are an indication that the body is battling an infection or disease. Most of the time, after their work is done, they return to normal size. However, in some occasions it is important that they are seen by a GP. In this article you will find everything you need to know about swollen glands and when to call our home GP for swollen glands in Fuengirola.
What are swollen glands?
Swollen glands typically arise as a result of bacterial or viral infection. They are rarely caused by cancer.
Your lymph glands, also called lymph nodes, play a crucial function in your body's ability to fend off infection. They act as filters, catching viruses , bacteria and other sources of infection so they can't invade other areas of the body. Popular places where you may find enlarged lymph nodes include your throat, under your ear, in your armpits, and in your groin.
Are my glands swollen?
Swollen glands are a warning that something is wrong with the body. If your lymph nodes swell, you can notice:
- Tenderness and discomfort in the lymph nodes
- Swelling that may be the volume of a pea or kidney bean, or much greater in lymph nodes.
Depending on the source of the swollen glands, other common symptoms may include:
- Drippy nose, sore throat, temperature, and other symptoms of upper respiratory infection
- Broad lymph node swelling in the body. This may signify an illness, such as HIV or mononucleosis, or an immune system deficiency, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Hard, defined, fast-growing nodes, suggesting potential cancer or lymphoma
- Fever
- Night sweats
When to call our home GP for swollen glands in Fuengirola
Some swollen glands return to normal as the underlying disorder, such as a mild infection, changes. Call our home GP for swollen glands in Fuengirola if you're concerned or if your swollen lymph nodes:
- Have shown for no particular cause
- Continue to increase or be around for two or four weeks.
- Feel stiff or rubbery, or don't move while you're pushing them.
- Are followed by recurrent fever, night sweating or excessive weight loss