What Causes Swollen Lymph Nodes?

Strep Throat

Strep throat is a bacteria-related infection that leads to pain and inflammation in the throat. The bacteria responsible for the condition is group A Streptococcus. The condition can affect adults and children of any age, and it tends to be highly contagious. It's most common in children between five and fifteen years old. Coughing and sneezing can cause bacteria to spread between individuals. The severity of the condition varies depending on the person. The mildest cases tend to present with just a sore throat, but some patients have trouble swallowing and develop a fever. Swollen lymph nodes often accompany the fever. Fevers associated with strep throat often come on suddenly and reach temperatures of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Patients might also have a reddened throat with white patches, a headache, chills, and loss of appetite. The lymph nodes in the neck are typically the ones that become swollen due to strep throat. Patients typically experience symptoms five days or less after they are initially exposed to the bacteria.

Continue reading to learn more about the different conditions that can result in swollen lymph nodes now.