The lymph nodes in the baby are swollen, is it dangerous?

The lymph nodes in the baby are swollen, which could be a sign of infection

Lymph nodes are an important part of the body's defense system against infection and disease. These glands contain lymphocyte cells, which act as an inhibitor for infection. Lymphocytes produce substances called antibodies, which paralyze the parasites or germs that cause infection.

When there is swelling of the lymph nodes, usually the lymphocyte count increases. This is caused by infection or inflammation, causing lymphocytes to produce more antibodies. Now, if your little one looks swollen in the neck, armpits, under the jaw, or behind the ears, this may indicate that there is a disturbance in his lymph nodes.

An easy way to find out is to pay attention to the area around the swollen gland, usually you will see an infection or wound that causes swelling.

For example, a sore throat often causes the glands in the neck to swell; or an infection in the arm that causes the glands under the arm to swell. In general, babies have the possibility to develop swollen lymph nodes.

The reason is, viral infections are more common in infants to children than adults so that the lymph nodes - especially those in the neck - tend to be bigger.

What causes the lymph nodes in babies to swell?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, reported from Livestrong, in most cases of swollen lymph nodes in babies can be caused by infections, such as:

Ear infection
Sore throat
Flu
Dengue fever
Sinusitis

Even in some cases, your little one can also experience inflammation due to teething, causing swollen lymph nodes.

In essence, the swollen lymph nodes in babies are not dangerous. This condition can actually be a sign of an infection, which is usually a mild infection. Take it easy, the lymph nodes in the baby will return to normal when the infection or inflammation has disappeared.

However, to find out whether this condition is due to a mild infection, you should take your little one to the doctor after you see the signs and symptoms that occur.

What is the proper handling if this happens?

Treatment for this disease depends on the cause. If there is an infection around the swollen area, then taking medication from a doctor can treat it so that it returns the glands to normal size. However, if the infection directly attacks the lymph nodes, the consumption of medication from a doctor must also be accompanied by giving warm compresses to the area of infection.

Then, does your little one need to be taken to the doctor?

Basically, swollen lymph nodes in babies you can handle yourself. However, when the swollen glands in the baby show more unusual signs, such as:

The lymph nodes swell for more than five days
High fever that exceeds 38.3 degrees Celsius
The glands appear to be swollen all over the body
The glands appear to be enlarged very quickly, even the surrounding skin looks red to purple

You should immediately consult further with your pediatrician, so that as soon as possible is known the cause and done the right treatment.