Swelling in the neck can occur due to various causes. In general, this condition is not dangerous. But in some cases, swelling in the neck can be a sign of a more serious disease.
Do you feel the neck feels heavier and bigger than before? If after several days do not go away and accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor to be aware of the possibility of a more serious disease.
Various Causes of Swelling in the Neck
Here are some of the main possible causes of swelling in the neck:
Swollen lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are glands that contain white blood cells and become part of the immune system that functions to fight infections that occur. This gland can swell a few centimeters in response to infection or disease. Apart from the neck, swollen lymph nodes can occur in other parts of the body, such as the armpits.
In cases that are not dangerous, such as colds and strep throat, consuming plenty of fluids and taking ibuprofen can usually ease pain in the swollen lymph nodes. In addition to giving ibuprofen, antibiotics may be recommended if swollen lymph nodes are caused by a bacterial infection.
If the treatment has been given, but within 1 month the swollen lymph nodes will not go away, consult a doctor. Blood tests, CT scans, or biopsies may be recommended to detect further abnormalities. Because under certain conditions, swelling in the neck due to swollen lymph nodes can be a symptom of measles, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, HIV, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, even cancer.
Goiter
The thyroid gland is shaped like a butterfly, located in the front of the neck precisely in front of the trachea. Goitre or swelling of the thyroid gland can cause the neck to look swollen. Mumps generally occurs in women, especially those aged 40 years and over. Treatment will be done according to the cause of goiter.
The causes of enlargement of the thyroid gland include:
- Hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid gland.
- Hormonal changes during menopause and pregnancy.
- Iodine deficiency.
- Thyroid cancer
Mumps
Mumps or mumps are dangerous infectious infections spread by paramyxovirus. Swelling in the neck due to swelling of the salivary glands is the main symptom of this disease. Mumps can be transmitted through saliva splashes that contain viruses, due to sufferers sneezing or coughing. MMR vaccine can prevent this disease.
Diphtheria
Swelling of the neck can also be a symptom of diphtheria. Diphtheria is an infectious disease by bacteria that attacks the mucous membranes in the nose and throat. Generally the symptoms are felt 2-5 days after infection. In addition to swelling in the neck, other symptoms that can be felt include fever, sore throat, weakness, headache, cough, nasal discharge containing blood or pus, and shortness of breath.
Abscess in the mouth
In certain cases, complications can occur due to bacterial infection of the teeth called dental abscesses. This condition causes swelling under the teeth or gums. When the infection spreads to the tissues under the mouth, it can cause the bottom of the mouth and neck to become swollen and red, called angina Ludwig. In addition, if not treated immediately, an abscess can also cause:
- Teeth must be removed
- Sinusitis
- Osteomyelitis
Cyst
Cysts are lumps that can contain fluid, air or pus. Cyst is not a malignancy, but can cause pain. Cysts can grow in various areas of the body, including the neck.
Although some neck swelling conditions are not dangerous, consult a doctor immediately if the neck is swollen:
- Not going to deflate in three weeks.
- The size is mem
- It feels hard and doesn't move when pressed.
- Accompanied by symptoms of difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Accompanied by high fever or night sweats for more than 3-4 days.
Handling of swelling in the neck is very dependent on the cause of swelling. Check with your doctor to anticipate more serious causes.
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