What is the function of Lymph nodes?

PrintEmailSave

Main Image: 

There are many outgrowths like moles, warts and skin tags on the outer surface of our skin and which are mostly harmless. But there are certain lumps or fleshy growths which can be dangerous if they are not looked into before time. It’s not necessary that these are problematic but they can be an alarm against some disorders in our body. At least lymph nodes do appear as the warning of some problems in our body. Lymph nodes or lymph glands play a vital role in fighting against viruses, bacteria and other pathogens and help the body to stay healthy. The common places where lymph nodes can be found are the neck, underarm, and the groin area.

What are lymph nodes?

Lymph nodes look like bean shaped small glands that are located in various parts of the body. Our body consists of 300 filtering selected foreign elements and white blood cells. Lymph node is a part of the lymphatic system and this system performs the function of moving lymph node fluid, nutrients and waste substances through out the blood stream of our body and You do not have access to view this node.

Where are the lymph nodes located?

Lymph nodes are mostly located on your neck, behind the ears, below the chin, behind clavicles or collar bone, groin area and even under the armpits. There are many lymph nodes in human body of which some are placed under the skin and are noticeable once they palpate or get enlarged. Palpation here means when the outgrowth is felt by fingers. Most of the lymph nodes are noticed by palpation. Some time lymph nodes can also be located in You do not have access to view this node, pelvis, chest etc. but these are hard to locate. Many times enlarged lymph nodes are also found near elbow.

How do lymph nodes help in fighting infections?

Each lymph node in our body is like fighter against various infections and diseases. These lymph nodes are the most vital part of our immune system because they filter fluids, catches bacteria and viruses and other foreign and unknown materials. These are then destroyed by the white blood cells. The swollen lymph node is an indication that the body is trying to resist an infection present inside our body and the lymph nodes are trying to identify and destroy such infections. Such swollen lymph nodes are called as lymphadenopathy or swollen glands. The swelling in lymph nodes starts once your body has produced those extra white blood cells for immunity. If you have such swollen lymph nodes or node, you should better get your health thoroughly checked from your physician.

Are lymph nodes cancerous?

Sometimes the lump of lymph node is cancerous while sometimes it is benign. But if you do have a swollen lymph node, then it’s better to find out the cause of its enlargement. If your doctor finds the node to be suspicious he can ask you to perform blood tests, surgical removal or even needle biopsy. While assessing the nature of lymph node, some preliminary things are considered:

• When a woman has enlarged lymph node under the arm, it can be related to breast cancer. Many times breast cancer is too small to be noticed by palpation in the breast and hence, the nature of enlargement should be checked.
• When the swollen lymph nodes are present behind the collar bone or neck, these can be cancerous. This is applicable to both men and women.
• Enlarged nodes in the groin, especially amongst men are found to be more of cancerous nature
• Small size nodes growing under the arms also to some extent are dangerous in men

Related Videos: