If you’re experiencing allergies and swollen glands, you might be wondering, “Can allergies really do that?” It’s a common question, and understanding the link between allergies and your lymphatic system is key to knowing what’s going on in your body.
This article will explore how allergies can, directly or indirectly, lead to swollen lymph nodes. We’ll cover the role of your lymphatic system, the usual suspects behind swollen glands, and when it’s time to get a doctor involved. So, if you’re curious about whether allergies can cause swollen glands, keep reading!
Understanding the Lymphatic System and Lymph Nodes
To understand how allergies can affect your glands, it’s helpful to know more about your lymphatic system and lymph nodes.
What is the Lymphatic System?
The lymphatic system is part of your immune system. It’s a network of tissues and organs that help your body get rid of toxins, waste, and other things it doesn’t want.
The lymphatic system acts as a filter, trapping and destroying bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances.
What are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found throughout your body.
They filter lymph fluid and house immune cells called lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights infection.
The human body has around 600 lymph nodes.
What causes swollen lymph nodes?
Swollen lymph nodes usually mean your body is fighting something, like an infection or illness. Lymph nodes are part of your immune system and swell when they’re fighting off foreign invaders, like bacteria.
Common infections that can cause swollen lymph nodes include:
- Strep throat
- Sinus infections
- Bronchitis
- Flu
- Ear infections
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Upper respiratory infections
- Mononucleosis
But infections aren’t the only cause. Other possibilities include:
- Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
- Cancers like lymphoma and leukemia
- Stress, which weakens your immune system
- Certain medications, such as antimalarials and antiseizure drugs
- Dental problems, especially gum disease
How allergies can indirectly lead to swollen lymph nodes
Allergies can set off a chain of events in your body that can ultimately lead to swollen lymph nodes. The allergy itself doesn’t directly cause the swelling, but it can create conditions that make it more likely.
Allergies and the immune response
When you have an allergic reaction, your body’s immune system kicks into high gear and starts releasing chemicals like histamine. These chemicals cause inflammation in your nasal passages, airways, and other tissues. This inflammation can sometimes contribute to lymph node swelling.
Secondary infections
Environmental allergies don’t directly cause swollen lymph nodes, but they can lead to secondary infections. Allergies can cause sinus congestion, which creates an environment where bacteria can thrive. Sinus infections, which are common secondary infections from allergies, can cause lymph node swelling, particularly in the neck. Allergic rhinitis can lead to sinusitis, which in turn can cause cervical lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes in the neck).
Specific allergy types
Seasonal allergies like pollen and hay fever can lead to sinus infections and, as a result, lymph node swelling. Allergic asthma can sometimes cause mild lymph node swelling because of increased immune activity. Food allergies can sometimes cause more serious reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can cause widespread swelling.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It’s important to see a doctor for any unexplained or persistent swelling of your lymph nodes. Most of the time, swollen glands go away within a couple of weeks. If yours don’t, or if they’re accompanied by other symptoms, you should seek medical advice.
See a doctor if you experience:
- Swelling that lasts longer than two weeks
- Swollen lymph nodes that get bigger
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Sore throat
If you think your swollen lymph nodes are related to allergies, you should talk to an allergy specialist for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
In Conclusion
Allergies themselves don’t usually cause glands to swell directly. However, they can indirectly contribute to swollen lymph nodes if allergies trigger secondary infections like sinus infections.
That’s why it’s so important to manage your allergies effectively. By keeping your allergic reactions under control, you can reduce the risk of complications like sinus infections that can cause your glands to swell.
If you have persistent or concerning swollen lymph nodes, see a doctor to rule out other, potentially more serious, causes.