Nuchal lymph nodes are organs that perform the function of a filter. Through them passes the lymph coming from all parts of the body. It is here that the foreign elements that are found in the body are determined. After that, the immune system responds to the stimulus. In the nodes there is a multiplication of special cells that attack foreign proteins, thereby protecting the body.
Main functions
Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. Between them they are connected by a single system, through which the fluid moves. During the performance of its main function, any lymph node can increase in size - this happens when the infection enters the body, whether it is bacterial, parasitic, viral or any other. It is these organs that detain microorganisms that somehow have a negative impact on the human body.
Inflammation of the occipital node is called lymphadenitis, and swelling is called lymphadenopathy. In children, problems with glands are more common than in adults. This is due to the underdevelopment of the immune system, which can not adequately withstand infection. The more complex the infectious process is, the larger the size of the nodes and the more painful they are.
Causes of inflammation of the occipital lymph nodes
Lymphadenitis is divided into: nonspecific and specific. The latter is a symptom of such serious diseases as:
- tuberculosis;
- measles;
- AIDS;
- mononucleosis .
In addition, the pain in the occipital lymph nodes can indicate rheumatoid arthritis or leukemia.
Nonspecific type of lymphadenitis is most often diagnosed when the focus of inflammation is in close proximity to the glands. Usually the cause of this is chronic ailments:
- caries;
- phlegmon;
- angina and chronic pharyngitis ;
- trophic ulcer;
- otitis.
Diagnosis of pathologies
If it suddenly became clear that the occipital or any other lymph nodes are enlarged, you need to make an appointment with a specialist as soon as possible. If the symptoms do not disappear or continue to worsen, and in addition to this there is a malaise of the body, it is better to turn to the ambulance. The rapid development of the disease speaks only of the fact that complications may occur in the future, meningitis begins.
Any diagnosis begins with an external examination, which is carried out by a qualified physician. If there is no possibility to determine the disease by external signs, then it is better to conduct an instrumental analysis.